Sonoma County is getting greener in 2019. Not only are the county’s winegrowers committed to becoming a 100 percent sustainable winegrowing region by the end of the year (89 percent of all vineyard acres are currently certified sustainable) but the hospitality industry is following suit, making it easier than ever to enjoy a sustainable getaway in Sonoma.
Where to Stay
Sonoma has a number of green hotels, but it’s hard to beat H2 Hotel. Built on the site of a former gas station in downtown Healdsburg, the hip hotel features a living roof that filters rainwater and reduces the heat the hotel gives off, energy-saving elevators that don’t use oil and smart sensors that turn off lights, fans and air-conditioning when rooms are unoccupied.
A lot of thought also went into sustainable amenities. In your room, you’ll find organic bedding, sustainable bamboo flooring and recyclable paper hangers as well as wine bottles turned into carafes you can fill with still or sparkling water from the water bar located on every floor and in the lobby.
For a more bucolic vibe, book a room at Vintners Inn. The Santa Rosa hotel is situated on 92 acres of vineyards and gardens with meandering paths. While you may not notice it right away, the hotel’s green philosophy takes into account every aspect of its environmental impact from waste minimization to energy efficiency and water management.
What to Do
It wouldn’t be a visit to Sonoma County without touring a winery, even if you’re traveling with kids. Start at Silver Oak Cellars, which not only makes great wines but incorporates sustainable practices, such as capturing rainwater. Or, head to sustainable Francis Ford Coppola Winery, where your family can spend the day swimming in the winery’s pool.
Novelist Jack London lived in Sonoma for 11 years, pioneering organic and sustainable farming practices such as crop rotation and terracing. You can visit Beauty Ranch, the site of his farm, at Jack London State Historic Park. While there, hike the park’s trails or plan a picnic.
To truly appreciate the unique county landscapes, plan an afternoon at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. The state park is home to some of the planet’s tallest trees, some more than 2,000 years old and up to 250 feet tall. Or, drive to Bodega Bay on the county’s west coast for views of the Pacific Ocean and, possibly, migrating whales.
Where to Eat
For every one acre of vineyard, Sonoma County has two acres dedicated to other agriculture, including pasture, poultry and apples, so area restaurants tend to use fresh, locally-sourced, organic ingredients. For a great meal from a restaurant that does, make a reservation at The Spinster Sisters in Santa Rosa. Or, try Catelli’s, a third-generation Italian restaurant in Geyersville.
If you’re staying in a vacation rental, you might also want to try cooking for yourself with ingredients purchased at local farmers markets. Sonoma Valley Certified Farmers Market is open year-round and is one of the area’s best.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedParents
Apr 24, 2024Treat Mom to Tea at The St. Regis Atlanta
Are you planning family travel to Atlanta for Mother’s Day this year? For those in the area on May 11 and 12, celebrate mom with a Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea at The St. Regis Atlanta. Afternoon tea is a hallmark at the property and this year’s Mother’s Day version will honor Audrey Hepburn and her iconic role in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Sponsored Content
Unearth Seoul’s Hidden Gems
Filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, Seoul invites travelers to unearth its many gems, and Seoul Tourism Organization is here to help travelers do just that. Through thoughtfully created initiatives like the Theme Tourism County Competition, Seoul Tourism Organization works closely with local districts to identify and showcase what makes each district unique and charming in all seasons.
Multigenerational
Apr 22, 2024Travel Sustainably with BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels invites family travelers to experience sustainable practices across its global portfolio. The brand prioritizes sustainable and responsible tourism through its Because We Care program and various partnerships with eco-friendly brands.
Parents
Apr 22, 20244 Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day fast approaches, and all mothers and mother figures deserve something extra special this year. Treat the mom in your life, whether she’s an outdoor enthusiast or host extraordinaire, to these four great gifts.
Sponsored Content
Interior Upgrades Begin Rolling Out Across United Fleet
United Airlines is in the midst of a major initiative to modernize its fleet over the next several years. After first announcing the plan in 2021, planes fitted with United’s signature interior are finally beginning to appear across the airline’s narrowbody fleet of Boeing and Airbus planes. United flyers are sure to notice these enhancements from the moment they step on board: Each new or updated plane sports remodeled seats, seatback entertainment screens for everyone, Bluetooth connectivity and more, all adding up to a better experience on every journey.
Multigenerational
Apr 19, 2024Family-Friendly Offerings from Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection
Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection includes the largest portfolio of luxury all-inclusive resorts in the world — many of them perfect for family travelers. And two current offers might entice your family even more.
ShareThis