We decided to end our trip to California with a visit to wine country.  For our first visit we chose the smaller Sonoma Valley over Napa.   Sonoma was a relaxing and enjoyable way to end our nearly two weeks in northern California.  We walked around the plaza and explored the most northern mission in California as well as  the historic Mexican army barracks.  We ate some phenomenal  cheeses and olives and drank excellent wines.  Following our short walk and lunch we visited the Gundlach Bundschu winery.  Both the wine and winery were very nice.  Unfortunately we did not want the hassle of carrying wine in our packs on the plane so we were pleasantly surprised when we found it here in North Carolina!

In the summertime, Sonoma hosts Tuesday nights on the plaza where local vendors come out to sell their food and wares with musicians playing all around. Being there on a Tuesday we were pleasantly surprised.  We had  some more food, wine, and listened to live music before heading back to enjoy a few more drinks on the hotel patio.

After having such a good time, we are already looking forward to going back and spending more time in both Sonoma and the woods of Northern California.  During our two weeks here we were able to enjoy the rugged coastal areas, camping in the pristine wilderness, hiking up dramatic mountains, and spending time with family in San Francisco.  We can’t wait to return!