jdp867

We will be spending 3-4 nights in wine country after a seminar in SF that ends June 30. We have never been to wine country or done wine tastings. We have looked at posts and have followed threads to Healdsburg hotels, but most look very traditional. We prefer a place like Carneros Inn- looked our style but many say it's out of the way. Seems like most people prefer Sonoma over Napa- any advice would be appreciated. We can afford a pretty nice place but need to stop short of Auberge.....thanks.

TrvlMaven

There are more places to stay within walking distance of downtown Sonoma. Both downtowns have 'hip' places--I'd rather stay in Sonoma because it's easier to walk. Don't miss "Baksheesh" a great boutique of imported goods.

Leburta

This is from someone who has only been to Napa (several times though) and just loves it for the food and accommodations. We like the village feel of Yountville. There are many nice little hotels and B&B's. We enjoyed our stay at the Yountville Inn (www.yountvilleinn.com) and would go back in a minute! Our favorite restaurant is Etoile at Domaine Chandon, but we have enjoyed many others. There are so many good restaurants that it is impossible to try all of them on one short trip. If Sonoma has better food and accommodations, then it must be wonderful because Napa sure is!

kimamom

The Le Mars Hotel in Healdsburg is very nice, it is where Cyrus is located. The Hotel Healdsburg is very contemporary with many nice amenities, our room included a 6' soaking tub which was nice, the Dry Creek Kitchen is here, also.

In Sonoma, check out the Ledson Hotel, very elegant and classy hotel located right in the heart of the Sonoma Square. ***kim***

jdp867

Thanks to all. Those are some great ideas. Hotel Healdburg looks closest to what we prefer, but I note Trvlmaven's comment about easier walkability in Sonoma- I would like more input about the choice b/w Sonoma and Healdsburg. Lots of posters rave about Healdsburg.....thanks

kleroux

Hotel Hbg is in the center of town. There are fantastic restaurants, shopping and wine tasting right in town. You can walk as much as you would like..you can also drive to beautiful wineries in Dry Creek, or Alexander Valley. Personally I find the big square in the town of Sonoma unfriendly... too large for the area. Its historic I know..but limited, compared to Healdsburg.

Kailani

Safari West is definitely not traditional.

http://www.safariwest.com/home/

The tent cabins are gorgeous.

Calistoga is fun and romantic (not sure which hotel to suggest, though), like an old wild west town.

I think Ca'toga is an amazing place to visit, if you like art.

http://www.catoga.com/

I'm not so crazy about Napa myself, but Healdburg, St. Helena, Sonoma, are all cute little towns that are fun to walk around and explore.