From the rugged, windswept Sonoma coast to the fog-cooled Russian River Valley, Sonoma wine country covers a vast swath of Northern California. In fact, Sonoma is nearly twice the size of Napa. But unlike Napa, where many major tasting rooms are within easy reach of highway 29, things are a bit more spread out in Sonoma. Identifying the right Sonoma vacation rentals or hotels can be somewhat of a challenge.
Start by figuring out what area of Sonoma is best for your stay. Whether you’re looking to get pampered or experience the Sonoma wilderness, the options are numerous. Here’s a quick overview of the best Sonoma vacation rentals and hotels, from south to north:
Downtown Sonoma
With its mix of Spanish-style architecture and colonial brick facades, the historic downtown Sonoma takes you a step back in time. Culinary delights abound here, from Sonoma Cheese Factory picnic lunches on the grassy, tree-lined Sonoma Plaza, to the Michelin-rated the girl and the fig. Enjoy many wine tasting rooms within short walking distance, including Pangloss Cellars, Auteur Wines, Bedrock Wine Co., and Corner 103.
Downtown Sonoma has an exceptional selection of boutique hotels and inns. Here are two of our top picks.
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
During your stay, experience one of Sonoma’s most unique features: its geothermal hot springs. The resort’s pale turquoise blue pools are filled with naturally-heated mineral water sourced from the property. Guests have exclusive access to the Sonoma Golf Club, with 122 lush acres of verdant hills and sweeping views of the Mayacamas Mountains. Enjoy dinner at your own private outdoor firepit with cuisine from CaliForno, or relax in one of multiple themed suites, from the Spanish-style Mission suite overlooking a private arched balcony, to the contemporary Williams-Sonoma suite.
BOOK FROM $548/NIGHT
With fresh, white walls, terracotta floors, and soothing earth-toned decor, the Cottage Inn evokes a California mission, but with all the modern amenities. Each suite opens up onto a private patio or the central courtyard. The best part? The inn is steps away from historic Sonoma landmarks, and one block away from world-class restaurants and wine tasting in Sonoma Plaza.
BOOK FROM $375/NIGHTGlen Ellen
The forested village of Glen Ellen is a haven for those looking to see a more intimate side of Sonoma. Because there are no sidewalks or a major downtown area, Glen Ellen is free of the crowds of tourists in other parts of Sonoma. The redwoods, orchards, and historic buildings of Jack London State Historic Park draw many hiking enthusiasts. In classic Sonoma fashion, the dining is refined, yet laid-back. The Glen Ellen Star serves wood-fired pizzas and cuisine from a farm just four minutes away, while The Fig Cafe focuses on seasonal cuisine paired with local Rhone varietal wines.
This modern getaway is nestled amongst hillsides of olive trees, offering a private escape in the Sonoma mountains. Awaken to a complimentary two-course plated breakfast, then get ready for the day in the luxury bathrooms with heated floors. During the day, enjoy discounted or complimentary wine tastings with exclusive OLEA partners, including Ram’s Gate, Laurel Glen Vineyards, and Auteur Wines. After a day of tasting, take in the sunset from the crystalline pool, or relax by the lounge chairs and fire pits carved into the Sonoma slopes.
BOOK FROM $375/NIGHTSebastapol
Equal parts hipster and small-town vibes, Sebastapol welcomes all with its down-to-earth, laid-back atmosphere. Grab coffee and a bite to eat at The Barlow, an industrial-chic outdoor market. Then, ease your way over to a number of world-class Pinot Noir makers, including Merry Edwards, Freeman Winery, Kistler Vineyards, Kosta Browne.
Due to the limited Sebastapol hotel scene, we recommend experiencing its culture through a vacation rental. Here are a few suggestions:
Farm Estate Next to Downtown Sebastapol
Rustic, exposed beams and lofted ceilings make this modern farmhouse a bright, airy space. After a long day of wine tasting, sink into the cushioned sofas, curl up on the window nook, or collapse into three plush beds. The sprawling gardens are perfect for al fresco dinners, followed by relaxed evenings around the fire pit. This home is minutes away from downtown Sebastapol and its local wineries.
BOOK FROM $375/NIGHTArcade Entertainment near Sebastapol
Behind Pixel Place’s unassuming gray clapboard exterior lies an otherworldly haven for gaming lovers. A private arcade houses over 20 games, replete with an outer space-themed rug and neon lighting. Challenge four friends on the vintage 90’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles game, or go for a round on the latest Stranger Things Pinball. The rest of the home is arcade themed, with arcade game light fixtures above every bathroom mirror and pop art throughout the house. Just don’t forget to leave the house to go wine tasting!
AVG $678/NIGHTHealdsburg
An eclectic mix of small restaurants, antique shops, art galleries, and even a fairy door map fills Healdsburg with local flair. Because of its small-town architecture, you won’t see looming hotel towers or sprawling resorts in Healdsburg. The best way to experience Healdsburg is through one of its many small inns or bed-and-breakfasts.
Healdsburg is home for many acclaimed Pinot Noir makers, including Vérité Winery, Flowers Vineyards & Winery, and Williams Selyem Winery. However, those who aren’t into Pinot Noir or prefer fuller-bodied red wines should also consider Healdsburg. Healdsburg is right next to the Dry Creek and Alexander Valley AVAs. Unlike southern Sonoma, where Pinot Noir is king, Dry Creek is renowned for balanced, aromatic Zinfandel, and Alexander Valley is home to powerful, complex Cabernet Sauvignon.
With four-poster beds, chandeliers, and patterned wallpaper, Victorian-era charm meets contemporary sophistication at the Grape Leaf Inn. Skylights and crisp white walls illuminate each bedroom, with added drama from vaulted ceilings. After you’ve settled in, enjoy exclusive access to wine tastings at owners Ken and Ann Wilson’s family of 11 wineries. Wilson Family Wines includes the acclaimed Wilson Winery, Delorimier, and Rockpile Vineyards. Tucked away in the tranquil, tree-lined neighborhood, the Grape Leaf Inn inn is just a few minutes walk from downtown Healdsburg.
BOOK FROM $299/NIGHT
From ultra-smooth Italian linens to leisurely French breakfasts, Hotel Les Mars brings Parisian luxury to the heart of Napa. Each room is furnished with 17th- and 18th-century antiques, hand-carved beds, and marble bathrooms. During the day, receive complimentary tastings Hotel Les Mars’ many partner wineries, including Chalk Hill, Foley Estates, and Ferrari-Carrano. Enjoy Michelin-rated, seasonal Californian cuisine at the property’s Chalkboard Restaurant, or amble just one block to restaurants in and around Healdsburg Square.
BOOK FROM $500/NIGHTTuscan-Style Retreat via Vrbo
This warm, sun-splashed Mediterranean estate has it all. Enjoy family dinners cooked tableside at the outdoor kitchen, or pizza from the Mugnaini wood-fired oven. Then, relax at the fire pits surrounded by palm, cypress, and fruit trees. The contemporary interior has four spacious bedrooms, and ample indoor living space for cooler nights. This estate is surrounded on all sides by world-class wineries, including Ridge Vineyards, Mazzocco Winery, Nalle Winery, and Mauritson Wines.
BOOK FROM $989/NIGHT