The Lodge at Sonoma | A Rustic-Chic Retreat in the Heart of Wine Country

When most people think of Northern California wine country, they think of Napa – and for good reason! Napa is full of fabulous wineries, chic hotels, and haute restaurants. Just next door, however, is NoCal’s best kept secret. We’re taking you to Sonoma…

Sonoma is home to some of the world’s best wineries, top-notch restaurants, shopping, and out-of-the-box outdoor adventures.  If you’re finding yourself in Sonoma anytime soon, The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa is a must-stay.

THE VIBE Located in the heart of Sonoma, the recently renovated Lodge at Sonoma is a great home base to rest your head in between wine tastings. The property is just minutes from the historic Sonoma Plaza, which is known for its quaint shops and restaurants, and is also in close proximity to 400+ award-winning wineries. No, that is not a typo. 400+ wineries.

The property itself feels familiar and inviting from the second you step through the door.  Though modern and stylish with the recent re-design, a cozy fireplace in the lobby exudes a warm, welcoming charm. Along with traditional guest rooms and suites, The Lodge at Sonoma has unique cottage rooms that offer guests a more secluded retreat, each with its own private entrance and fireplace for those cool Sonoma nights.

THE TASTE As home to some of the world’s most- acclaimed restaurants, the bar has been set high in wine country for good food. The Lodge at Sonoma does not disappoint with its award-winning farm-to-table restaurant, Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar. Fun fact for beer lovers: The Lodge at Sonoma is one of the only resorts in the area to pour Pliny the Elder beer on draft – a brew that has quickly become a cult favorite. For a quick bite, the on-property artisanal coffee and wine bar, Bean & Bottle, features an assortment of freshly baked goods and other locally sourced delights. In the warmer months, enjoy a selection of hand-crafted beverages and bites poolside while soaking up the Sonoma sunshine. Yes, please.

Image courtesy of @thelodgesonoma 

WHAT TO PACK:

WTF The Lodge at Sonoma is a stylish, charming property with tasty food, but the coolest part about this resort are the daily programs that are offered to guests. If you’re interested in sampling wine without leaving the resort, The Lodge at Sonoma hosts daily wine tastings from local vintners in the lobby as well as interactive wine education classes with the resort’s resident beverage expert. Is there anything better than having access to a full wine tasting experience without leaving the comfort of your own “home?”

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, make some friends on a daily guided hike in the resort’s backyard. The resort offers curated scavenger hunt-style Sonoma bike tours in partnership with San Francisco’s Mission Bicycle. Guests staying in the cottage rooms also have exclusive access to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay-themed bikes – custom-made for The Lodge at Sonoma by Mission Bicycle – perfect for the ultimate wine country biking adventure (and photo moment).

TONE What better way to cap off a day of wine tasting than a luxurious, relaxing spa treatment? The resort has an award-winning Raindance Spa, which draws inspiration from its natural surroundings to incorporate local herbs, plants, minerals, and fruits into its specially curated menu of treatments. Go for the signature experience like the Grape Indulgence Wrap and be sure to save time post-treatment to lounge in the private, lush outdoor spa garden which has Jacuzzis, warm soaking pools, and cabanas. If we go missing, you’ll know where to find us.