Russian River
A popular "vacation wonderland" since the 1920s, the Russian River is one of the Bay Area's favorite places to swim, kayak, inner tube, camp and hike. Thanks to the Russian River Valley appellation, it's also becoming an increasingly popular wine tasting destination, with many small family wineries. The area also has specialty wineries that produce sparkling wines, which are not allowed to be called champagne outside the French region of that name, but are just as enjoyable. Once popular primarily with families, the Russian River is now a thriving gay travel destination, and also offers many upscale inns, resorts, and B&Bs that cater to sophisticated Bay Area tastes in farm-to-table dining. Because the western side of Sonoma County is where many of the best dairies and organic farms are located, chefs at the area's many top-notch restaurants a can highlight local produce, artisanal cheeses, and baked goods on their menus. The famed Armstrong Redwoods are a stand of old-growth redwoods where it's still possible to enjoy the ancient giants in solitude. The Russian River runs approximately northeast to southwest; temperatures at the inland end are warmer in summer, colder in winter, while areas closer to the coast get local fog in summer and have a milder coastal climate in the winter. The area's many beaches and parks make the Russian River a favorite destination for outdoors and adventure-oriented travelers.