SONOMA

My friends and someone else had both said that between Napa and Sonoma, Sonoma was more charming. Probably true, but I suspect couples and families would enjoy it more than single people. The town itself is pretty, but basically limited to one main square, with lots of shops and restaurants and a few historical remnants.

The countryside is pretty enough, but, having visited several wine regions in France, I found it unexciting (I might have been more impressed if I’d taken the time to do some wine touring, which I didn’t this time around.)

I DID visit Napa on the way back, and found it more of a real town – that is, with a number of other things going on besides the wine business. Unfortunately, this also means that traffic – going to and in the town – is HORRIBLE. Not least, I suspect, because of the industrial parks and other activities in the area. So, if you’re in a hurry, definitely go for Sonoma. But I’m guessing there’s more for solos in Napa.

Though I’d planned to stay in Sonoma for the night, I ended up doubling back to Mill Valley, from whence I went up (after 10 pm) to Petaluma.

LAST UPDATED: AUGUST 2003