guerneville, california
A lovely antidote to the busier wine-country towns of Napa and Sonoma, Guerneville is an adorable little town on the bank of the Russian River. With a sleepy and quaint downtown (just a few blocks of shops and restaurants) there are a few good spots to check out in town, and plenty of wine to be tasted in the area. The Russian River Valley is known for cooler-climate loving varietals Pinot Noir and Chardonnay (yum!). Just a 2 hour drive from San Francisco, Guerneville is a perfect weekend, wine country escape.
Pack... If you go in the summer (like we did) prepare for some serious heat. Jean shorts, casual dresses and sandals are all you need in this low key town. Throw in a fun bathing suit like this Solid + Striped one-piece in case you decide to jump in the river to cool off.
Stay... We stayed in a great Airbnb that was a 5 minute walk from town. On my bucket list is returning to stay at the boon hotel + spa.
Bring home... A few bottles of wine to bring back memories of your trip.
{ wander }
Hike in Armstrong National Park. Huge redwood trees that have been around for 1,000 of years. Just a few miles out of town
Hang on the Russian River - We didn't do this but looked like a great way to cool off.
There are plenty of wine tastings to be had. Skip the commercial and touristy tasting at Korbel, and head to Gary Farrell on Westside Road. Set up high on a hill, your outdoor tasting will give you sweeping views of the Russian River Valley. If you are like us, you may even be persuaded to join their wine club! Be sure to make an appointment.
Iron Horse Ranch & Vineyards is a sparking wine vineyard that we didn't make it to. Would love to go back.
{ eat }
boon eat + drink - So good we ate here twice. Our dinner was delicious - we may have ordered just about one of everything on the menu. Don't miss the brussels sprouts! All of their wine is local from the Russian River Valley. We also came back here the next morning for a satisfying brunch.
Taqueria La Tapatia - Satisfying Mexican to indulge after a day of wine tasting.
El Barrio - A cute, Mexican inspired place to have a drink and snacks.
Big Bottom Market - We didn't eat here but looks like a great spot for sandwiches.
{ june 2016 }