Gather your favorite crew and escape to Sonoma for a weekend that blends fresh-air adventure with wine-country indulgence. Picture breezy mornings pedaling through rolling vineyards, leisurely afternoons swirling velvety reds in historic tasting rooms, and golden evenings lingering over wood-fired cuisine beneath twinkling patio lights. Between spa-side lounging, plaza strolls, and a scoop (or two) of small-batch ice cream, this itinerary serves up just the right mix of motion and mellow—perfect for reconnecting with friends while soaking up the laid-back spirit of California’s wine country.

This art-driven, 64-room compound near downtown Sonoma completed a $25 million transformation in 2019, turning a somewhat dated boutique inn into a stylish luxury getaway with destination-worthy dining. The six-acre resort, abloom with rose gardens and other lush landscaping, includes a seamless mix of renovated historic buildings and more recent additions. Book a garden shower suite, set in a farmhouse-style cottage, to enjoy a private patio with discreetly shielded outdoor shower, or pick a premium suite to relax in residential proportions.

With offerings like Lobster Pot Pie and Short Rib Cavatelli, it’s hard to save room for dessert at Wit & Wisdom. But it’s worth the effort because when you succeed a Woodfired S’mores Souffle For 2 is waiting. It’s like being a kid again, but better. witandwisdomsonoma.com

Cycle through quiet countryside roads in Sonoma and visit several wineries with optional tasting. Your guide will provide a picnic lunch with local products on your journey. Tours depart at 9:30 am and take 5-6 hours.

With origins dating to the mid-19th century, California’s largest town square is a grassy plaza with four identical sides to give equal importance to all its merchants. Today it’s home to festivals and a weekly farmer’s market, popular for its shops, restaurants, tasting rooms, galleries, a historic inn and vintage cinema. In the middle, Sonoma City Hall is a handsome 1908 Italianate structure. Highlights for history buffs: General Vallejo’s headquarters and Mission San Francisco Solano de Sonoma, northernmost Franciscan outpost. Don’t miss: Bear Flag Monument, a registered landmark where California’s flag was first raised to mark independence from Mexico in 1846. parks.ca.gov/sonomashp/<

Small batch ice cream whipped up steps off of Sonoma Plaza. Flavors change often: check Sweet Scoops Instagram stories or give the sweet shop a call. It’s sister shop, Darling, is located just a few blocks away. Along with scoops, shakes, floats and cones, ice cream cakes are available. sweetscoopsicecream.com, darlingsonoma.com

Located in the heart of Sonoma, Valley Bar & Bottle is not only a fantastic spot for wine enthusiasts but also for dog owners. Their beautiful outdoor patio offers a cozy, shaded space where your pup can relax while you sip on a glass of local wine and indulge in their fresh farm-to-table dishes.

Located in the heart of Jack London's beloved cozy hamlet, Glen Ellen Star specializes in wood-fire cooking that brings out the finest flavors of their California-inspired dishes. The team sources ingredients from local producers and craft daily menus that showcase the best of the region. Make a reservation and get the house baked sourdough boule and brick chicken with cauliflower labneh, caper berries, dates and ramp “anchoiade.”

Mark off your bucket-list and take a hot air balloon over Napa and Sonoma and enjoy panoramic views of the rolling hills and wineries. Tours depart at 6:00 am.

MacArthur Place’s three-meal restaurant features an inspired Mediterranean style menu. The menu changes with the season, but diners can expect options including tomato bisque, lamb merguez meatballs, whole roasted dorade and cast iron Parker (House) rolls.