Santa Rosa
A drive over the Golden Gate Bridge heading north from San Francisco will take you to Santa Rosa. This is the starting point on your exploration; Santa Rosa offers fabulous dining, as it is on the list of America's Top Foodie Cities. Fresh food and delightful wines are part of the heritage here. Walking tours, biking and hiking, and a visit to the home of Luther Burbank are all part of Santa Rosa. Then continue towards the wineries on scenic Hwy 12 to Sonoma.
Sonoma Wine Country and Sonoma
Shop around the town square, visit an art gallery, and go wine tasting in the Sonoma area.
Russian River
From Hwy 101, take the River Road Exit and head towards Guerneville. Beautiful redwoods, scenic river views and even a champagne cellar, Korbel, can be found along the way. Armstrong Woods State Park is found in Guerneville and should not be missed. Towering ancient trees and paths beneath the redwoods can be explored. Discover the small community of Guerneville, then head towards Jenner and the coast.
Coastal Beaches
Jenner has an accessible beach; it is known as the area where the Russian River meets the sea. One spectacular beach is Goat Rock. During the season, seals relax on the beach and are waiting for your photos. Then head north on Hwy.1, with a stop at historic Ft. Ross. Beaches below the highway offer pounding surf and fabulous views. Continue the scenic drive, with stops along the way where you can park or snack. Several towns offer dining and shopping along the way; Gualala has several hotels.
If you choose to go south at Jenner, you will get to Bodega Bay, where Hitchcock's "The Birds" was filmed.
Mendocino
The town of Mendocino offers art galleries, unique shops and fabulous restaurants to suit every taste. Enjoy an open studio art tour or just relax and chill in this historic Preserve America community.
