Hotels

The biggest choice you need to make when considering where to shack up is whether to stay in downtown Sonoma, which allows for easy access to its walkable shopping and dining square, or anywhere else in the valley, which promises more rural small-town surroundings and guaranteed time in the car to get to any activities. Regardless, you're destined to spend time behind the wheel, as the wineries and attractions are scattered. Keep in mind that during the peak season and on weekends, most B&Bs and hotels require a minimum 2-night stay. Of course, that's assuming you can find a vacancy; make reservations as far in advance as possible. If you are having trouble finding a room, call the Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau (tel. 866/996-1090 or 707/996-1090; www.sonomavalley.com). The staff will try to refer you to a lodging that has a room to spare but won't make reservations for you. Another option is the Bed and Breakfast Association of Sonoma Valley (tel. 800/969-4667), which can refer you to a B&B that belongs to the association. You can also find updated information on their website, www.sonomabb.com.

Sonoma

The southernmost town in Sonoma Valley is also the most "townlike," with an extremely charming town square encircled by hotels, restaurants, boutiques, and a historic California mission. It's also a short drive from many of the wineries.

Best For: Visitors who want instant access to shopping, restaurants, and bars.

Drawbacks: It's far more bustling than other areas and requires longer time in the car when exploring wineries to the north.

Glen Ellen

A 10- to 20-minute drive (traffic permitting) from downtown Sonoma provides a far more rural experience, with little more than a 1-block town, lush overgrown surroundings, and accommodations ranging from intimate to grand and budget to wallet-busting.

Best For: People seeking a heavy dose of country charm.

Drawbacks: You'll have to get in the car to do pretty much anything other than dine at the few local restaurants.

Kenwood

The northernmost town is also the least developed, with stretches of vineyards, a handful of wineries and restaurants, and the renowned luxury retreat listed below; it's also the gateway to Northern Sonoma, a Wine Country destination in itself.

Best For: Anyone who wants to truly "get away from it all" or venture up to Northern Sonoma while staying in the valley.

Drawbacks: You'll have to do more driving to get to the rest of the area's attractions.