With the weather warming up, it’s time to pack those picnic baskets with tasty treats and explore all the natural, outdoor beauty that awaits you in Wine Country. Whether you travel to the coast or decide on a scenic inland setting, Sonoma County doesn’t disappoint. Here are a few local places to enjoy a picnic with friends and family.
Viansa Winery
Located at the summit of the Sonoma Valley, Viansa offers breathtaking 270° views of Sonoma Valley, with San Pablo Bay to the south, Mayacamas Mountains to the East, and “King’s Highway” leading the way to the North. Viansa includes 33 acres of estate vineyards and 97 acres of natural wetlands, which serve as home to a variety of indigenous water fowl. Enjoy a glass of wine and picnic fare from their marketplace on the terrace or take an estate tour, it’s up to you. Few places in the region boast such panoramic views. They are dog-friendly so you can bring Fido along as well.
Marin French Cheese Company
Known locally as “The Cheese Factory”, the Marin French Cheese Company has been sourcing the finest cow’s milk from local Marin dairies and crafting small batch, soft-ripened cheeses since 1865. Begin your visit at the cozy retail shop and sample award-winning cheeses. Make a picnic of cheese, sandwiches and drinks and enjoy lunch at the tables and lush grounds, which include a pond. Just 20 minutes from downtown Petaluma and about 30 minutes to the Pt. Reyes National Seashore. This venue is dog-friendly.
Goat Rock
Goat Rock, near the mouth of the Russian River, is known for its scenic shoreline and easily accessible sandy beach. Picnic tables and restroom facilities are also available. Goat Rock beach is home to a colony of harbor seals which are fun to watch, but please stay at least 50 yards from the seals, especially during pupping season (March – August.) Due to the protected status of the seals, DOGS are NOT allowed on Goat Rock Beach. Leashed dogs are allowed on Blind Beach which is off the south parking lot at Goat Rock.
Sonoma Plaza
Spend the day on Sonoma Plaza. The Plaza is a large park in the heart of Sonoma, with lush green lawns, playgrounds, fountains, a pond with ducks and plenty of shade provided by the mature trees. This destination is a great place for families and offers a quaint yet sophisticated environment, with an emphasis on the rich history of the region. Pack your own lunch or purchase from local vendors such as nearby Angelo’s Wine Country Deli. Afterwards, do a little shopping or window browsing at the many nearby retailers.
Armstrong Woods
Relax, rest and recharge under the majestic Redwoods of Guerneville’s Armstrong Woods, which preserves stately and magnificent Sequoia sempervirens, commonly known as the coast redwood and is the tallest living thing on our planet! Standing 200-250 feet tall, the grove of trees offers solace from the hustle and bustle of daily life, offering the onlooker great inspiration and a place for quiet reflection. Picnic tables, grills and restrooms make this outing very easy for all.
So get out there, enjoy this weather and experience all that Wine Country has to offer!
Mayacama is a private golf and residential community where a vibrant club life is joined by an active sporting life in an indescribably beautiful valley. To learn more about membership opportunities at Mayacama, please contact us at 866.519.3088 (toll free) or 707.387.0449 (direct) or via email at info@mayacama.com. Get social with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
