10 days in Sonoma County, Napa & Corte Madera Itinerary

Less than an hour from San Francisco, Sonoma County bills itself as the "Number 1 Wine Destination in the U.S." for good reason. Though not as famous as the neighboring Napa Valley, Sonoma County features a rolling landscape dotted with over 250 wineries. The county ranks among the country's most agriculturally productive regions. It turns out not only some of America's finest grapes, but also hops, prunes, and apples. The county manages to cling to its leisurely way of life--which is how the local nickname "Slow-noma" got started (despite the fact that the valley attracts nearly 8 million tourists annually)--and is really more about simple enjoyment than a jam-packed sightseeing itinerary. Napa may be better known, but as the crowds of visitors continue to clog the roads there, Sonoma's appeal as a vacation destination only grows.

Thanks to a Mediterranean climate and idyllic location in Northern California, Napa Valley is one of the top wine producing regions in the world. This, coupled with the area's breathtaking scenery, abundance of quaint B&Bs, and exquisite local gastronomy, makes Napa Valley one of the country's most popular spots for peaceful weekends and romantic getaways. While wine tasting and vineyard tours are the traditional things to do, the region offers a variety of other attractions, including hot air balloon rides, spa treatments, and trips aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train.