If you’re a frequent reader or an active Vinesse member, you probably already know that Vinesse is about to kick off our first ever Private Cycling Tour of Sonoma Wine Country in a partnership with Sojourn Bicycling & Active Vacations. The tour takes off May 31st of this year and ends the 5th of June. It has an enviable itinerary for any wine fan and includes great gourmet meals at top restaurants, insiders’ tours and tastings at wineries, and lodgings at several of Sonoma’s most desirable locations. Many of which we’ve already featured in this blog.
A trip like this is a great way to visit multiple wineries in a single trip and really get to know the beauty of Sonoma. Rides on gentle, rolling hills take you through the Dry Creek, Alexander, and Russian River Valleys, with stops to enjoy lunches, tastings, tours and more.
As outstanding as the food and wine sound, if you listen to tour guide Sue Boyle, it sounds like the views on the tour are even better:
- The trip begins and ends at the beautiful Madrona Manor in Healdsburg. Not to be missed is a walk through the terraced gardens of the Manor. An orange grove, a variety of flowers, fruit trees, and many of the herbs and vegetables used in the five star restaurant are grown on the grounds.
- First time travelers with Sojourn are often concerned that they may not want to, or might not be able to, ride the 25 to 45 miles we have scheduled for the day. The Sonoma trip easily lends itself to the guides selecting the best, easiest, most scenic 10 to 15 miles of riding for those travelers.
- The diversity of the topography on this trip is amazing. The route takes us from the vineyards to the Redwoods, along the Russian River and down the coast to a magical place called Bodega Bay. From the first time I rolled into the parking lot of the Bodega Bay Lodge I knew this place was special. I have often heard from guests that the rolling 10 miles of riding along the coast to Bodega Bay is the most fun and scenic riding they have ever done. The fact that guests get to unpack and stay in Bodega Bay for two nights is always a plus. Personally, I never miss the opportunity to get up early and take a solitary walk along the beach or do some early morning bird watching before the Sojourn day begins.
- During day two of our stay in Bodega we cycle out to Bodega Head where we take the guests on a two mile hike on the bluff high above the ocean. The views are breathtaking and the hike is always a trip highlight.
There are still several spots on the tour remaining so if you place your reservation soon, you could be taking in the sights and making memories with Sue, Vinesse members, and staff this May. For tickets, terms, and other additional information, click here.
