MacArthur Place Hotel + Spa.

Relaxing poolside at MacArthur Place Hotel + Spa.

Sonoma has a well-deserved reputation as the laid-back little sister to Napa. An authentic farm-to-table food scene, relaxed wine tasting and gorgeous spas abound. It’s shockingly close to San Francisco that you can depart from the East Coast in the morning and be sipping a local chardonnay by lunchtime. Plus it’s inevitably ten degrees warmer than downtown San Fran—no wonder so many urbanites flock north every weekend.

This past summer, my Mom and I spent three nights at MacArthur Place Hotel + Spa, a 64-room inn sprawled across six lush acres. We traveled to Sonoma under the auspices of the Napa to Sonoma Half Marathon (which I ran), but spent the lion’s share of our weekend simply enjoying all of the wining, dining and relaxing that Sonoma has to offer.

Freshly baked pastries and expertly crafted cappuccinos at The Porch.

Who’s It For: You could bring your children here, but I probably wouldn’t. This charming hideaway is better suited to adult travelers—couples, mother-daughter pairs, and groups of friends—who can appreciate the elevated dining, wine tasting and spa offerings.

How to Get Here: It’s a quick jaunt from SFO—57 miles to be exact, which will take about an hour without traffic and closer to 90 minutes with. The route from the airport typically winds you through downtown San Francisco, so make a pit stop for a grilled oyster or nourishing bowl of ramen on your way north. We recommend renting a car to enjoy exploring all that Sonoma County has to offer, but you could hire a car service if you plan to outsource your driving in Sonoma—not a bad idea if you plan to imbibe most days.

An apple tree on the verdant grounds of the six-acre property.

The Rooms: This historic property was once a working family ranch and vineyard. Both its verdant grounds (rich with oak trees and seasonal blooms) and its exceptionally friendly service reflect that heritage. Gathering areas, such as multiple fire pits or tables to play chess, are scattered about. You’ll find its 64 rooms and suites housed in 20 single and dual-level buildings that resemble small inns themselves rather than a hotel. The modern farmhouse decor is abundant with live edge wood tables and upholstered furniture in soothing whites and creams contrasted by the occasional neutral accent. Entry-level rooms are spacious with huge bathrooms, but the suites take it up a notch with open air patios, wood-burning fireplaces and/or outdoor showers. Curated amenities are thoughtful—every room includes a Dyson blowdryer, Grown Alchemist organic toiletries, plush velour slippers, and a basket of complimentary snacks. In true California style, Petite Amie Skincare face masks are placed on beds at turn down.

Deluxe guest rooms offer 450 square feet of living space with a king bed and sleeper sofa.

What to Do: Wine, dine, spa. Repeat. No really, that’s what the wine country experience is all about. You could go all in and spend the day sipping lesser known local varietals on a bespoke wine tasting itinerary with Bohemian Highway Travel Company—farm-to-table lunch and expert guide included. Or you could explore on your own. We like Gundlach Bundschu (also known as "Gun Bun”) and Scribe Winery, both within ten minutes drive of the hotel.

Guests are greeted with a complimentary glass of Gloria Ferrer sparkling wine at check-in.

Back at the hotel, the wellness menu is limited, but adequate. There’s a fitness center equipped with Peloton bikes and TRX systems, complimentary outdoor yoga sessions on the weekends, and a compact spa offering treatments inspired by the property’s own herbs and plants. The outdoor pool, flanked by white chaises and yellow umbrellas, is tucked behind the gardens. Want to explore downtown Sonoma? It’s a short 15 minute walk or you can hop on one of the hotel’s complimentary electric bikes. When you head back, ask the front desk for a s’more kit and cozy up by a firepit.

Dining on Property: This is where the hotel really shines. The Porch, a coffee bar-cum-marketplace, offers freshly baked croissants, muffins and scones alongside sandwiches and salads for lunch. (Pro tip: arrive by 8am for the best of the baked goods.) Layla, the hotel’s contemporary Mediterranean restaurant, is a destination in its own right. Craft cocktails, a plethora of outdoor seating, and an appealing seasonal menu featuring locally soured ingredients—for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Dining off Property: In town, our top choice is Valley Bar + Bottle, a hidden gem with a cozy low-key vibe and back patio, and then there’s always The Girl + the Fig. We also recommend nearby Glen Ellen Star for wood roasted pizza. If Michelin-starred dining is your thing, be prepared for a drive. Reservations are all but impossible to obtain at the famed The French Laundry, but you’ll find exquisite meals at Auberge du Soleil (request an outdoor table for vineyard views) as well as SingleThread Farm in Healdsburg.

When to Go: We think of Sonoma as a year round destination. It’s most enjoyable from May through the end of October when the temperatures hit the high 70s and low 80s, but the low season has its charm, too. Cozy evenings by the firepit, easier-to-nab dinner reservations and the landscape will still be as green as ever. If you want to check out autumn harvest at the local vineyards, visit between the end of August through late October.

Unparalleled valley views from the patio at The Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil.