Out & About
Local Wineries
If you’re a wine enthusiast, the vineyards of Sonoma Valley’s finest are just moments away. Enjoy the grandeur of Chateau St. Jean, the modern elegance of St. Francis, or the casual comfort of Kenwood Vineyards. Benziger Family Wineries, Arrowood, B.R. Cohn, Kunde, Ledson, and many more are all in the neighborhood. For a complete listing of more than 75 local wineries open to the public right in Sonoma Valley, please visit Sonoma Valley Wineries. If these names whet your appetite for more, do your homework and you will discover that there are many, many fantastic, private wineries nestled in this region that are available for tasting and tours by appointment only (and they are well worth it!).
Feeling adventurous? A 30-minute drive over the Oakville Grade drops you right into the heart of Napa Valley for a taste of our famous neighbor’s offerings. A 45-minute drive north up Highway 101 takes you to the famed Alexander Valley appellation. An hour west will take you into the Russian River Valley, most famous for its superb Pinot Noir wines. And, just 20 minutes southeast of our location is the iconic town of Sonoma, which is home to California’s oldest winery, Buena Vista Winery.
Local Dining
There are several highly reviewed restaurants all within 10 minutes of Kenwood Oaks Guest House. Cuisines range from delicious country Italian to casual and elegant Californian to ethnic Indian/Nepalese, with lots in between. Many of our chefs source their ingredients from the bounty of local and regional organic farms that also thrive in Wine Country, and caught-same-day seafood is a readily available! Try these local restaurant favorites: Tips Roadside; The Fig Café; Glen Ellen Inn; Yeti Restaurant. Other options include Palooza Gastropub, La Cucina at VJB Vineyards, Salt & Stone and Glen Ellen Star.
Outdoor Enthusiasts
So much to choose from! Hiking and biking enthusiasts can find specific information on our Hiking & Cycling Page. Birders visiting our area will thrill at some of the best Birding Locations in the entire country. If you are one who loves excitement, be sure to check out ziplining in the tops of the redwoods at Sonoma Canopy Tours. Rafting the Russian River is another experience not to be missed! Contact Russian River Adventures for details. Are you into horseback riding? We have a fantastic option just 15 minutes from Kenwood Oaks Guest House called Triple Creek Horse Outfit. Hot Air Ballooning sound like your kind of fun? There are many more sights and activities to consider, so bring your adventurous selves to our neck of the woods!
Luckily for all of us, Kenwood Oaks Guest House is surrounded by outstandingly beautiful state and regional parks. You have your choice of Annadel, Sugarloaf Ridge, Jack London, and Hood Mountain parks, all of which are located within a few minutes’ drive of the property. If the Pacific Coast beckons you, about a hour away you have The Pacific Ocean in all it’s glory. For an all-day excursion, try Point Reyes National Seashore, which is famous for its cheese, oysters, and the windiest and foggiest lighthouse on the west coast.
Shopping, Farmers’ Markets & Antiques
Kenwood, Glen Ellen, Santa Rosa, Healdsburg, Sonoma and Petaluma all offer great shopping experiences. Both Petaluma and Napa have Premium Outlet Malls. Sonoma County has an abundance of terrific Certified Farmers’ Markets both mid-week and on weekends that occur nearly every day in the warm months, and are not to be missed. Historic Railroad Square in Santa Rosa is fabulous for antiques, as are Petaluma Antique Stores
There are many other activities in the area, and festivals happening all the time. Check out the Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau and Sonoma County Tourism Bureau for a full list.
Additional Indulgences
We can arrange massages for you, spa days, limo tours, private concierge tours, or even suggest golf courses. Please let us know how we can help to make your time in Sonoma Valley one that you will remember always.
