It’s that time of the year in Sonoma when harvest season is about done and the number of visitors filling tasting rooms has become more intimate. Locals call this relaxing period the “secret season” because they know it is the perfect time to enjoy everything Sonoma Valley has to offer without the crowds—from idyllic weather to grape leaves hued in fall’s crimson, burgundy and yellow.
Secret Season Experiences
Secret season is a great time to take advantage of some unique experiences at the valley’s irresistible inns that promise relaxation, as well as partake of some new nature offerings, minus the crowds.
Gaige House + Ryokan
Tucked into the Sonoma Valley hamlet of Glen Ellen, the Gaige House + Ryokan is a zen hideaway featuring 23 thoughtfully-appointed guestrooms with modern Asian details. The secluded setting along the Calabazas Creek offers a tranquil retreat with delightful accents such as meditation areas, calming fountains, private zen gardens and luxurious amenities such as on-site spa treatments. The inn stands as one of only two ryokans in all of California.
This season, guests at the inn are invited to participate in a “forest bathing experience,” officially called a SHINRIN-YOKU. Guests are led on a three-hour guided walking meditation through Sugarloaf State Park to connect with the forest and let nature be their therapist.
Kenwood Inn & Spa
Located in Sonoma Wine Country’s Valley of the Moon is Kenwood Inn & Spa, a sister resort to the Gaige House. Equally tranquil, the Mediterranean-style inn sits on more than two-and-a-half peaceful acres, surrounded by vineyards, orchards and ancient oaks. The exquisite grounds are meticulously landscaped with greenery and flowers, three courtyards, a sparkling pool, two hot tubs and fountains. Although renovations are in progress on the inn’s spa, guests are invited to enjoy Gaige’s on-site spa.
This season, Kenwood Inn & Spa has partnered with the 1904-established Kunde Family Winery to create “The Kunde Experience,” a wine tasting mountain-top adventure. Guests journey 1,400 feet up to the top of the mountainous Kunde Family Winery property for an epic 360- degree view paired with wine tasting for two. In addition to the mountaintop tasting experience, the package includes: accommodations; gourmet breakfast buffet; late-night cordial bar and a daily sunset Magic Hour wine and cheese reception.
Explore Jenner Headlands
This fall, the gates have finally opened at Jenner Headlands Preserve, and the public is free to explore the 14 miles of scenic trails on the stunningly beautiful Sonoma County coastline.
For several years, access to the preserve’s 5,630 acres, covered with redwood and Douglas fir forests, oak woodlands, chaparral, and coastal prairie overlooking the Pacific Ocean, was limited to guided hikes. With the addition of a parking lot, restrooms and a day-use area with picnic tables, visitors are now free to explore this rugged landscape.
(Photo courtesy TravMedia)
A 400-foot, handicap-accessible, paved trail lets people of all abilities reach a beautiful scenic overlook. However, many of the preserve’s trails are challenging, especially a hike that goes from sea level to the top of Pole Mountain — the highest point on the Sonoma Coast. The 15- mile round trip rewards with a 3,500-foot elevation gain.
Jenner Headlands Preserve is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset; admission is free. The preserve is located on Highway 1, a mile and a half north of the town of Jenner.
