In the 2008 Michelin guide you’ll find several one-star restaurants in Sonoma Country. One of those hard-to-get stars belongs to the restaurant at Madrona Manor.

Now I have a wonderful idea for a getaway. It includes a stay at the elegant Madrona Manor with enough time spent there to enjoy the food, garden and ambiance. Then an afternoon’s ice-skating at Snoopy’s Home Ice, the Redwood Empire Skating Arena and a hot chocolate in the Warm Puppy Cafe. The next day, lunch in the Alexander Valley at the eclectic Jimtown Store and a stop to taste Syrah at the Vineyard of Pasterick Winery in Dry Creek Valley. Then, perhaps, a visit to the magnificent tasting room and gardens at Ferrari-Carano. Now that’s a six-star getaway.

This Postcard is brought to you by the Sonoma County Tourism Bureau celebrating Sonoma Country; America’s Premier Wine, Spa and Coastal Destination.

Just off the River Road in Santa Rosa is the Vintner’s Inn and the award-winning restaurant, John Ash & Company. It’s one of our favorite romantic getaway locations. Dine there from December 12th through the 24th, and the restaurant will give you, while supplies last, a wax-sealed envelope.

They call it their “Twelve Days of Christmas Gift.” Now return with the envelope and dine there January 3rd through March 31st and they will open the wax seal. You can end up winning a cocktail party for 20 or an overnight stay at the Vintner’s Inn with dinner for two, instant dinners or lunches for four or a minimum $25 gift certificate. And the Inn’s location is a perfect jumping off place to visit wineries in the Russian, Dry Creek and Alexander Valleys.

As this is Thanksgiving week, this is more an invitation than a postcard. Remember how, as a child you looked forward to visiting your grandparents? Their house was warm and welcoming, the food was great and the spirit of the Holiday was everywhere. That’s how I feel about a stay in Sonoma Country.

This is a terrific time to visit. For instance, the Sheraton Sonoma County Petaluma is featuring a special Thanksgiving dinner. Plan a stay and you’ll have time to explore Petaluma’s historic downtown and other attractions.

Further north, there are Holiday specials at the Hilton Sonoma Wine Country with its panoramic views of the Santa Rosa valley. And in Santa Rosa, the Cafe Europe Restaurant is serving a Thanksgiving dinner in a European setting.

This Postcard is brought to you by the Sonoma County Tourism Bureau ,celebrating Sonoma Country; America’s Premier Wine, Spa and Coastal Destination.