What sounds more relaxing than lying back on a blanket in the sun snacking on aged cheese and salted salami? Not much. Sonoma is filled with plenty of spots to bring your family or friends for a relaxing picnic. Here are our top favorite destinations to pair cheese and wine with a blanket and good music.
The Sonoma Square
Located in the heart of downtown Sonoma, the square is surrounded with amazing restaurants. However, those fancy restaurants can cost a pretty penny, especially if you have a large group. Head over to the local cheese market and pick out your favorite snacks to fill your basket. The square has plenty of grass space to sprawl out on. On Tuesdays in the summertime, the square even hosts a farmer’s market with live music perfect for evening picnicking.
Viansa Winery
If you prefer your picnic with a beautiful view, (who doesn’t?) check out Viansa Winery. This gorgeous winery sits atop coastal wetlands and is the perfect wine tasting destination. To save some money, bring your own lunch to eat after you’ve tasted their bountiful selection of reds and whites.
Maxwell Farms Regional Park
If you prefer to work for your appetite, head over to Maxwell Farms Regional Park and hike the 2.5 miles of trails before finishing with a picnic under the big oak trees. Listen to the trickle of the nearby Sonoma Creek while you break for lunch.
Monte Rio Beach
Whether you want to baste in the sun or splash in the cool waters of Sonoma’s “Vacation Wonderland on the Russian River”, Monte Rio Recreation and Park District has many options for you after finish your picnic on the beach. Too lazy to bring things with you? No problem! There are several beach concessions open Friday through Monday.
Gualala Point Regional Park
If you prefer the sea breeze in your hair, find a spot on the beach by the river or the ocean at Gualala Point Regional Park. Watch the seabirds and the occasional whale pass by as you sip on your wine and nibble on your cheese.
Whatever your pleasure, you’ll be sure to find the perfect place to enjoy the simple joys of life. The warm embrace of the sun, great food, cool drinks and of course, wonderful company.
