A Wellness Weekend in Sonoma County for Stressed-Out Souls

Sonoma County may be world-famous for its wines, but it’s also a popular destination for wellness activities. From Zen-inducing hotels, spas and hikes to nourishing meals from local restaurants, there’s something for every stressed-out soul in search of a reinvigorating getaway. Read on to discover some of our favorite Wine Country wellness spots.

Osmosis Day Spa and Sanctuary, Freestone

It may not sound luxurious, but a Cedar Enzyme Bath will do wonders for your wellbeing. A warm and fragrant mix of ground cedar and rice bran, it’s the signature treatment at Osmosis. The spa’s founder learned about the Japanese tradition while living abroad in the mid 1980s; the Freestone locale is reportedly the only spa outside of Japan to offer the experience. 209 Bohemian Highway, Freestone, 707-823-8231

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, Guerneville

Work out tensions and stress by walking in the shade of towering redwoods. At Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, magnificent, 1,200-year-old Sequoia sempervirens, commonly known as coastal redwoods, tower in a way that makes humans feel very small and very serene. 17000 Armstrong Woods Road, Guerneville. 707-869-2015

Pomo Canyon Campground, Duncans Mills

You don’t have to set up a tent to enjoy this redwood-studded stretch of the Sonoma Coast State Park. Add some extra steps to your daily fitness goal by continuing along the Pomo Canyon-Red Hill loop for stellar ocean and river views. Highway 1, Duncans Mills. 707-875-3483

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Healdsburg

Stroll through vineyards, sip wine from barrels and enjoy a Wine Country picnic. An added perk: You’ll learn about the history of the estate and surrounding area, and get a view of the Alexander Valley schoolhouse, built in 1868. $60 per person. 8644 Highway 128, Healdsburg, 707-433-7209

Jack London State Historic Park, Glen Ellen

Take a calming stroll to the Wolf House ruins (there are picnic tables nearby). Jack London and his wife, Charmian London, planned the 26-room mansion as their residence but it burned down in August 1913, shortly before they were to move in. Or opt for a more strenuous hike along one of the park’s nearly 30 miles of backcountry trails. 2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, 707-938-5216

Check out more relaxing things to do in Glen Ellen.

Little Saint, Healdsburg

Recently named one of The New York Times’ 50 favorite restaurants of 2022, this combined restaurant, café and wine shop is the latest venture by SingleThread owners Kyle and Katina Connaughton. Plant-based menus are inspired by the 5-acre Little Saint Farm and the Connaughtons’ 25-acre Single Thread Farm in Alexander Valley. 25 North Street, Healdsburg, 707-433-8207

Cozy Plum Bistro, Santa Rosa

Along with the expected veggie burger, this plant-based eatery offers nourishing options like butternut squash tacos, an artichoke feta sub sandwich, and stuffed jalapenos. 1899 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-526-3333

Zoftig Eatery, Santa Rosa

You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here. Along with poke bowl with ahi tuna, you’ll find delicious offerings like crispy brussel sprouts and a falafel wrap. Husband-and-wife team Matt and Sonjia Spector make everything from scratch. 57 Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-521-9554

The Branch Line, Santa Rosa

Another meatless eatery, Branch Line offers a grab-and-go case filled with delicious and healthy options. The coffee bar is a standout – even if you’re not a coffee drinker. Happy Tissues pop-up creator and mixologist Danny Ojinaga is creating one-of-a-kind non-alcoholic drinks made with tasty unknowns like avocado orgeat, alongside traditional favorites. 10 Fourth St., Suite 1, Santa Rosa

Sunflower Caffé, Sonoma

Grab a table on the pretty back patio and treat yourself to comfort foods like a grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup or one of the best avocado toasts in Sonoma County. 421 First St. West, Sonoma, 707-996-6645

Gaige House, Glen Ellen

For a restful night away from home, this quiet spot offers Ryokan Zen Suites with deep granite soaking tubs and traditional Japanese hinoki wood bathing accessories including mats, stools and ladles. Pack your swimsuit, there’s also a pool and hot tub. 13540 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen, 707-935-0237

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn, Sonoma

Recently nominated for the 2022 Historic Hotels of America Awards of Excellence, the Sonoma property has been helping guests relax since 1927. A Sonoma County historic landmark, the hotel’s wellness facility features five thermal mineral pools ranging from 92 to 102 degrees. 100 Boyes Boulevard, Sonoma, 707-938-9000

Written by Dana Rebmann