TRAVELSonoma County adventures beyond the wineA world of adventure and beauty awaits the traveler who is looking for activities beyond wine tasting. Grab your camera and explore the many back roads of the three valleys that make up the region's Wine Road--Alexander, Dry Creek, and Russian River. There you will find small family vineyards, quaint country stores, down-home eateries, and plenty of photo opportunities.Joanne DiBonaRelatively flat country roads and gorgeous scenery make Sonoma's Dry Creek Valley one of the most popular areas for biking in all of the wine country. Rent a bike and meander through the hills on your own, or take advantage of the expertise of a trained guide as part of an organized bike tour. Several companies offer bike adventures of one or more days in duration that include a drive through this scenic valley and its many famous wineries.Mark Wojahn, Bicycle AdventuresVisitors from around the world flock to Sonoma County for wine tasting, but many may not realize that a dramatic shoreline awaits those who drive less than an hour to enjoy 70 miles of pristine coastline, perfect for beach strolls, picnics, and hiking.Sonoma County TourismThis is a perfect tour for those who want to see the Sonoma Wine Country from a different aspect....from the seat of a kayak. Depending on the river's water level, the rapids can provide thrills from mild to exhilarating to white-knuckle. Not to worry though, experienced guides will lead you safely past vineyards, meadows and redwood tree forests on this picturesque journey through the Russian River valley. In spring, you might even see schools of Chinook salmon spawning in the river.Joanne DiBona/Getaway AdventuresRiding a fine, gentle steed through the incredible vineyards of Sonoma County is definitely an experience to remember. Several companies offer horseback-riding tours, designed for everyone from the first-time rider to the experienced equestrian.Melania Mahoney Via Sonoma County TourismThis fertile valley produces some of the world's best fruits and vegetables. Farmers markets are available throughout the week in towns throughout Sonoma, many of them offering not only an opportunity to buy farm-to-table produce, but to enjoy street entertainers, wine tasting, live bands, and the delightful laid-back ambiance that is part of the down-home atmosphere typical of Sonoma Valley.Joanne DiBonaBodega Bay is to seafood what farm-to-table is to the rest of the culinary scene. Plucked from the sea a few feet away, crabs are served fresh in a wide variety of ways, from succulent crab cakes, creamy salads, and fresh from the pot ready to crack.Joanne DiBonaGet up close to ancient Coast Redwood trees, some of which are up to 1,000 years old, at the Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve in Sonoma County near Sebastopol. The reserve features 805 acres of well-preserved redwood forest, and a variety of nature and hiking trails designed for all levels. Pack a lunch as there are many ideally located picnic areas. Don't miss the Parson Jones Tree, the tallest tree in the grove which, at 310 feet in height, is almost the length of a football field.Sonoma County Tourism'Godfather' movie aficionados can't refuse this offer: free entry to the movie gallery at the Francis Ford Coppola Winery, a museum of memorabilia surrounding Francis Ford Coppola's movie career, which spans five decades. Highlights include Don Corleone's desk from the movies, in addition to other memorabilia from the historic film trilogy. Enjoy wine tasting after the tour; during the summer months, the majestic Coppola Winery pool is open for day visitors.Joanne DiBonaMost tasting rooms in the valley are open from 10 a.m. until 4 or 5 p.m. Many of the magnificent winery estates, however, invite the public to explore the exquisite grounds, sans tasting, until late afternoon. Depending on the season, this is the golden--and most romantic--hour over the valley.Joanne DiBonaFeatured Weekly Ad