While “hustle and bustle” of Wine Country isn’t really a thing, we all know about the fast-paced life of the San Francisco Bay Area. If you want to dial it way back, the tiny, sparsely populated towns of Occidental and Freestone make up the perfect Wine Country getaway for exploring some of the more unique and charming nooks and crannies of Sonoma County.

Only about 90 minutes from San Francisco, and mere miles from the Pacific Ocean and the Russian River, Occidental and Freestone are nestled in a nature-lover’s dream, with plenty to explore — including the state’s famous Redwood forests — on foot, kayak, bike, or horseback. These towns are also rich with history, not to mention plenty of opportunities to sip and savor local wines and culinary delights at independent and family-run places.

Where to Stay

If you can, grab a room at the Inn at Occidental, where Wine Country charm meets old-fashioned hospitality in a cozy yet elegant setting. You will feel like you are staying with close relatives as you are welcomed by owners Matt and Vicky Meblin, and mixing and mingling at the onsite OX Wine Bar. Try not to get lost among the variety of antiques, artwork, family heirlooms, and treasures that adorn each room and hallway, making it truly unique.

The Occidental Guest House properties are another standout option in the area. Visitors stay in lodging that is beautifully integrated with the surrounding nature — some of the most majestic in California. Choose from three different guest houses, depending on your preferred natural element: The Farmhouse, The Trees, or The Hills. All three offer spectacular views of the Occidental Valley and the surrounding Redwoods. The restaurant at the adjoining Union Hotel offers family-style Italian dining seven days a week.

For a slice of history, stay at the Valley Ford Hotel, built in 1864 but appointed with modern Wine Country amenities. Each room features Egyptian cotton sheets, bathrobes, and oversized bath towels to enhance your stay.

Where to Eat

If it were us, we would grab a fresh-baked brick oven loaf (or scone or pastry) at Wild Flour Bread in Freestone and other provisions like cheese, roasted nuts, and sweet and savory crêpes at BlueGoat, along with a bottle or two of local Sonoma County wine, before picnicking somewhere amidst the natural California beauty that Freestone and Occidental have to offer.

If more traditional restaurant dining is what you’re going for, snag a table at Hazel along the scenic, two-lane Bohemian Highway in Occidental for wood-fired pizzas, roasted octopus, and other Cal-Mediterranean dishes, not to mention tons of local wines. Just up the street, also on Bohemian Highway, is Negri’s Original Italian Restaurant, serving up traditional Italian fare served family-style. Four generations of authentic Italian family recipes have earned this restaurant a thriving business since 1943. Sip a seasonal cocktail at the adjoining Joe’s Bar, then save room for a plate of deep-fried Oreos for dessert.

What to Do

Don’t let the sleepy vibe of Freestone and Occidental fool you. You can still stay plenty busy while you are visiting. Adventurous types will want to check out Sonoma Canopy Tours. These guided eco-adventures feature zip lines, sky bridges, and rappels for panoramic forest views and unparalleled immersion in the beauty of California’s Coastal Redwoods.

For some lower-key exploration, head to Western Hills Garden, just off Bohemian Highway in Occidental. Described by the New York Times as “The Tiffany’s of Plants,” Western Hills Garden is open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays and by appointment otherwise. Bring lunch, your dog, and the kids, and dine al fresco in the picnic area or outdoor event space.

For the ultimate in Wine Country relaxation, book a treatment, such as the signature Cedar-Enzyme Bath, at Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary in Freestone. Don’t forget to check out their award-winning Japanese gardens for some self-care and reflection.

Where to Taste Wine

No trip to Sonoma County would be complete without a little wine tasting, so make sure to leave some time for sipping. While the region is home to some of Northern California’s most celebrated vineyards, many of these are not open for tours and tastings. There is, nevertheless, a small handful of wineries open to the public.

Furthermore Wines, just north of Sebastopol, offers a selection of limited-release wines made primarily from Pinot Noir. Owners Bob Zeches and Chad Richard are deeply passionate about the exploration of how Pinot Noir expresses itself throughout the different macro and microclimates of California, a love that shows in their lineup of wines — available for tasting daily.

Stop into the tasting room at Bohème Wines in Occidental, named after the Bohemian Highway that winds through the Redwoods, vineyards, and farms of the Sonoma Coast. Here, you will sip estate-grown, small production wines made primarily from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel, crafted at the hands of owner/winemaker Kurt Beitler.