Hi All,
My husband and I are taking a trip to wine country for three nights in august. Should we stay in Sonoma or Napa? I have heard about the other cities as well, but I want somewhere where we can walk to restaurants and ride bikes through wine country - what location are those things best done from? I am looking at Calistoga, Yountville, Napa, Sonoma, anywhere you suggest. I am on a budget, so am looking to spend no more than 500 for the three nights lodging.
Thanks in advance for your help!
Casey

I'd check out Healdsburg (Sonoma County). Also check on www.sonomacountyvacations for places to stay that might be less expensive than a hotel. Many are either in town or just outside. Bike riding is big around here... Since August is harvest time, book as soon as you can.

ttt

My vote is for Healdsburg-and at your budget look at
www.drycreekinn.com
and get your reservations ASAP !

Sonoma County has a lot more biking room to roam, as well as less traffic, especially in the summer.
Are your 3 days here weekday or including weekend days ?
Also, are you mountain biking ot road biking ? Renting or bringing own ?

R5

Thanks for the websites! I am checking them out as we speak. We are going to be there from monday to thursday, and we haven't decided on bikes yet - we definitely will be renting, but what do you recommend? Mountain or road? We enjoy both.
And, how easy is it to travel from Healdsburg to Napa? Would you recommend doing two nights there and one night in napa? Or just doing both sonoma and napa from there?
Thanks again
Casey

If you make Healdsburg your base you can easily bike the Westside Road (Hop Kiln, Richoli, Davis Bynum, Rabbit Ridge, etc. wineries) Also, the Dry Creek Valley and Alexander Valleys. Lots of good eats and shops to walk to and, as mentioned, less traffic than Napa Valley or even Highway 12 out of Sonoma.