Redwood Creek: Top 25 Picnic Destinations

		SONOMA VALLEY: Featuring in the Vineyards
		THE SETTING Often called the birthplace of the California wine industry, Sonoma Valley is one of the best places on earth to break open a bottle and share it with one you love. One of the most romantic ways to enjoy this ritual is on a blanket overlooking lush vineyards and rolling golden hills during the summer or harvest season. Luckily, Sonoma Valley is home to some of the most prominent vineyards and wineries in the state and ranks as one of the finest wine producing regions of the world. Located just 45 minutes from San Francisco, the valley begins in the south in the Carneros area and extends 17 miles north to the edge of Santa Rosa. With more than 13,000 acres of state and regional parkland, the area offers a multitude of perfect picnic spots, from Sugarloaf Ridge State Park to Lake Sonoma and the Sonoma Coast State Beach. But for many, sharing a gourmet lunch on the grounds of major wine producer is the best way to end an afternoon of touring this beautiful countryside.
		WHAT TO SEE AND DO Most people come to Sonoma for the great wine, laid-back atmosphere and beautiful scenery, but there's much more to fill an afternoon or weekend. Spend some time at one of the area's numerous day spas and pamper yourself with a mud bath or massage. Active types can tour the valley by bicycle, horse or hot-air balloon, or hit a few rounds at one of Sonoma's fine golf courses. Hiking is a popular activity--at Sugarloaf, for example, a rigorous 2,000-foot climb will bring you to the summit of Bald Mountain for magnificent views. In and around the town of Sonoma, you can spend time visiting art galleries and retail shops, including local bookstores where famous authors regularly do readings. Theatre lovers will also get their kicks in Sonoma. "Theater at the Center" presents first-class drama throughout the year, while summer repertory companies perform at area parks and wineries.
		HOT TIPS If you decide to picnic at a vineyard, be aware of the winery's policies. For example, the only wine you'll most likely be able to drink on the grounds is the brand that's made there. Be sure to clean up after yourself after you're finished dining. Call ahead to the individual winery to find out the place's hours and learn more about their picnic facilities.
		PHOTO OPS The vineyards themselves offer some extremely photogenic scenery, from the clusters of grapes ripening in the sun to the rolling hills that turn golden in the late summer. Hikers should bring their cameras on any excursions that offer scenic views - and Sonoma has many. Maxwell Park is an 80-acre wilderness area featuring a walk along pretty Sonoma Creek. Sonoma Valley Regional Park affords great views of wine country. And located on the west slope of the valley, Jack London State Park offers a strenuous day hike worth it for a fine view of the bay area and towering redwoods. Finally, the view from the top of Bald Mountain at Sugarloaf offers a panorama of the Bay Area.
		LOCAL SPECIALTIES Much of what is served at Sonoma Valley restaurants is grown or raised right in the valley. The region is known for its abundance of its produce: fruits, vegetables (in the spring, you'll notice the rows or artichokes growing along the highways in northern California), nuts and, of course, the grapes used to create award-winning wines. Internationally recognized breads and cheeses are also produced in Sonoma, so be sure to pack those in your basket as well.