Healdsburg, in Sonoma Valley, is where three major wine-producing regions come together: Alexander Valley, the Russian River, and Dry Creek. Healdsburg has that small-town feel with a touch of history. If you’re looking for a fun day trip or weekend away from San Francisco, I highly recommend heading out to Healdsburg. My top to do’s: Wine tasting and a paddle down the Russian River.
We go up to Healdsburg for two reasons: to drink wine and to chill out outdoors in nature, away from everyday stress and responsibilities. My favorite thing to do now is the Russian River Paddle Trip, with dog (and more on this). Wine tasting in Sonoma is a no brainer, except for too many choices. I narrow it down by choosing one near our favorite activity.
Healdsburg Wine Tasting & Russian River Paddle Trip: We start with a float down the Russian River in an inflatable canoe, family dog included. Second, wine tasting at one of the more peaceful intimate little wineries nearby in Healdsburg. (Skip down for details.)
A day trip like this appeals to my California eco-nature because it’s low tech and easy on the environment. And it’s gotta be good for your health: heart healthy pinot noir – check; fresh air and relaxation – check.
The paddle takes us along the most secluded section of the Russian River, starting in Healdsburg, in Sonoma County. A stop at swimming holes along the way is perfect for playing on rope swings, or keeping an eye out for owls, egrets, heron, osprey, kingfisher and ducks. This is an easy adventure, with no previous experience or skill required. We’re feeling kind of lazy anyway, so the pace is perfect.
For wine tasting on this day trip, we’ve chosen Gracianna Winery, also in Healdsburg, set in the rolling hills right above the Russian River on the Miracle Mile. This small award-winning Russian River Valley “fruit-first” craftsman’s winery is owned and operated by a friendly Sonoma family, the Amadors. After enjoying the flights in the tasting room, you can head to a shaded area in the back of the vineyard for a picnic or simply to relax.
Gracianna’s grace means humble self-respect that always and effortlessly takes the high road.
We usually bring our dog with us, which, in Sonoma, isn’t as limiting as you might think. Many wineries allow dogs in certain areas. And this paddle down the Russian River allows dog in your canoe. You can bring a snack and a bottle of wine and take it easy as you roll down the river, feet up over the tubes.
Plan Your Sonoma Canoe & Wine Tasting Trip
1. Get tickets in advance for the SOAR Russian River Canoe Trip {details} — Prices from $45, last checked. You can book a half or full day (no dogs on the half day). This source is a good choice when the deal above isn’t available. Generally runs May through September. You’ll launch from the base of Memorial Beach Dam, near the Russian River Adventure office in Healdsburg, CA. A return shuttle will meet you at Wohler Bridge. Park free at the facility. (The details page will take you to a map.) Here’s what you get:
- Inflatable Canoe, paddles, life jackets
- Dry bag to keep personal articles dry
- Return shuttle from Wohler Bridge back to the parking lot.
2. Pack a Picnic Lunch. Here are a few spots to grab a bite. And they all have dog-friendly areas.
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Costeaux French Bakery
Summer’s Market & Deli (557 Powell Ave Healdsburg). A locally recommended market & deli with lots of the usual options.
- Oakville Grocery (124 Matheson St. Healdsburg). They have a nice deli counter and also make great pannini sandwiches.
- Costeaux French Bakery (417 Healdsburg Ave. Healdsburg). One of my favorite stops. They make scrumptious sandwiches you can take with you, or go for a fresh-baked baguette and cheese. And if you go in the morning you can grab breakfast and coffee while you wait.
3. Fix for Fido’s Hangover. After a day on the river, pups sometimes need a little pick-me-up (no I did not say hair of the dog). Check out these locations for nearby for dog bathing, grooming, and pet supplies:
- Healdsburg Dog House (212 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg), 707-431-1044, healdsburgdoghouse.com
- Debbie’s Pet Boutique (431 Center St, Healdsburg), 707-395-4410, debbiespetboutique.com
4. Head over to Gracianna Winery (6914 Westside Rd, Healdsburg). Book in advance for $15 with a low price guarantee.) Enjoy an intimate tasting experience in a relaxed tasting room overlooking the Mercedes Riverblock Estate vineyard on the Russian River. Wines typically include pinot noir, zinfandel, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and sparkling wine. Pets and kids welcome.
5. Staying over? If you’re still browsing places to stay, see the Sonoma Valley hotel deals & reviews on TripAdvisor.
Here's what's happening for the 
How do I get the discount on the Russian river adventure 50%
Maria, follow the link to the source of this deal. They require sign up by email first (free, and you can always unsubscribe later.) If you don’t see the page for the Russian River paddle trip deal, make sure you’re on the San Francisco page, and then put “Russian” in the search box.
Wlil this deal continue on through August?
Good news! The Russian River by Inflatable Canoe 50% off deal is back for 2013. Check it out. I know I will.
Is this a good deal? If so, how do I get there from San Jose, CA? Also, what should we bring to this trip if we go on the Russian River on inflatables? What should we bring? What should we wear? Why is there a price range? Your info is much appreciated. James