Travel the California Wine Country: 50 Reasons to Love Sonoma County (part 4 of 5)
January 4th, 2008
31. Get a “Premium” Experience
The Ferrari- Carano Vineyards have everything you need for an unforgettable, and ultra luxurious experience. The gardens are well cultivated, the orchards heavy with the grapes that have made this one of the best vineyards in the country, and the wine shop stocked with an extensive collection of Cabernet Sauvignons, Chardonneys and Merlots, as well as other accessories for the budding wine expert. You can’t call yourself a lover of wine without a visit to this place. http://www.ferrari-carano.com
32. See the Works of Michael Holland
Discover one of Sonoma’s most beloved painters. He has wonderful paintings of the wine country, including the landscapes and figurative work. Art enthusiasts will see the strong influence of European artists from the turn of the century. http://www.michaelhollandgallery.com
33. Get Yourself a New Set of “Wheels.”
Now here’s a new way of seeing the sights in Sonoma. Buy a Zappy Electric Scooter, that lets you zip past traffic and into alleys or bypaths. Shop downtown, drink in the sights, get dinner, pass by museums. Hey, at least you don’t waste time in the traffic plus you’ll be cool for “going green”. http://www.zapworld.com
34. Go Camping
Choose from several camping locations. Some are equipped with electricity and piped in water, others really let you rough it out. It all depends on your needs and preferences. Enjoy the view, the fresh air, and the opportunity to bond with family, friends or co-workers. Great for vacations or team building exercises. (Some campsites even have amphitheaters for corporate functions.)
35. Rent a Harley or Motorcycle for the Day
Only in California can you see the sights and live out your dreams of riding a motorcycle through the sunset. (Come on, admit, it, you’ve always wanted one.) Rent a Harley or motorycle for several days and go where your spirit leads you. For information on Harleys go to: http://www.michaelsharleydavidson.com
36. Find Art and Nature in One Place
Go to the Wildwood Farm Nursery and Sculpture Garden along Sonoma Highway for an amazing Zen experience. Here you’ll see the beautiful craftsmanship of nearly 30 artists, displayed among Japanese maples and very rare plants and shrubs. You can purchase them as souvenirs (they can help you with the shipping). Definitely one of the most unique and relaxing “galleries” you’ll ever visit. http://www.wildwoodmaples.com/
37. Train Under a “Racing Coach.”
Learn to race like a pro at the Russell Racing School, which includes course on karting, driving and other racing courses. Check out other exciting ventures at the famous Sears Point Raceway in Sonoma, California. You can also arrange group adventures. http://www.jimrussellusa.com/
38. Step into a Watercolor Scene
John Muir was a famous bird enthusiast and painter. Explore the woods that inspired some of his most popular works, by going to the Muir Woods National Monument. Tours can also take you to the nearly town of Healdsburg, wineries, and the picturesque Russian River. You can also incorporate wine tours. http://www.visitmuirwoods.com
39. Go on a Sightseeing “Marathon.”
Take a multi-sport tour that incorporates all the outdoor activities and attractions in Sonoma. You’ll bike, kayak, and hike, with plenty of pit stops at wineries and restaurants. It’s the perfect trip for people who love the outdoors, or those who want to exercise in a fun way. At least this is one vacation where you won’t gain several pounds from eating too much!
40. Bring Home a Priceless Pot
Why get a cheap knock off when you can invest in one of Beverly Prevost work of art? This talented potter has a studio at the Le Haye Art Center, and her works have graced restaurants and the collections of some of California’s most avid art collectors. http://www.beverlyprevostpottery.com/



