Windsor, California: The Perfect Home Base for Sonoma Wine Country
- Jason Gariss
- 15 minutes ago
- 4 min read
Tucked just north of Santa Rosa and minutes from some of Sonoma County’s most celebrated wine regions, Windsor, California is one of wine country’s best-kept secrets.
For travelers who want easy access to world-class wineries, comfortable accommodations, great local dining, and plenty to do beyond wine tasting, Windsor checks every box. It’s relaxed, convenient, and perfectly positioned—making it an ideal home base for exploring Sonoma County.
At Sonoma Wine Rides, we regularly pick up guests in Windsor, from hotels, private homes, and vacation rentals, and we’ve seen firsthand how much this area has to offer.
Where Is Windsor, California?
Windsor is located in northern Sonoma County, just off Highway 101:
10 minutes from Healdsburg
20 minutes from Santa Rosa
Under an hour from the Sonoma Coast
Its central location makes Windsor especially appealing for visitors who want to explore multiple AVAs without spending hours in the car.
Close to Sonoma’s Top AVAs
One of Windsor’s biggest advantages is its proximity to some of the most respected wine regions in California.
Dry Creek Valley AVA
Just minutes away, Dry Creek Valley is known for:
Old-vine Zinfandel
Exceptional Sauvignon Blanc
Boutique, family-owned wineries
Scenic country roads with minimal traffic
This is one of the most popular wine tour destinations for guests staying in Windsor.
Russian River Valley AVA
A short drive south brings you to the Russian River Valley, famous for:
Cool-climate Pinot Noir
Elegant Chardonnay
Rolling vineyards and redwood-lined roads
It’s a perfect contrast to Dry Creek Valley and easy to pair into a single-day wine tour.
Alexander Valley AVA
Just northeast of Windsor, Alexander Valley is known for:
Bold yet balanced Cabernet Sauvignon
Warm days and cool nights
Beautiful valley-floor vineyards
Guests staying in Windsor can reach Alexander Valley wineries quickly and comfortably.
Local Wineries Near Windsor
While Windsor itself is primarily residential, it’s surrounded by outstanding wineries just minutes away. Many are smaller, locally owned producers that offer:
Personalized tastings
Relaxed atmospheres
Easy access without crowds
This makes Windsor a smart choice for travelers who want great wine without staying directly in a busy tasting hub.
Wine Tour Transportation from Windsor
Getting around wine country is just as important as where you stay.
Sonoma Wine Rides offers pickup directly from Windsor, including:
Hotels
Vacation rentals
Private homes
Airbnb and VRBO properties
Guests love knowing they don’t need to drive, navigate back roads, or worry about tasting responsibly.
From Windsor, we can easily customize wine tours to:
Dry Creek Valley
Russian River Valley
Alexander Valley
Healdsburg-area wineries
Or even Napa Valley
It’s seamless, safe, and completely stress-free.
Where to Stay in Windsor, California
Windsor offers a wide range of accommodations that are often more affordable—and more spacious—than those in larger wine towns.
Hotels
Windsor is home to well-reviewed hotels that appeal to wine travelers who want comfort and convenience.
Vacation Rentals
Windsor is especially popular for:
Group trips
Couples traveling together
Longer stays
Many guests choose vacation rentals for the extra space, privacy, and neighborhood feel. And yes—Sonoma Wine Rides picks up directly from vacation rentals in Windsor, making it incredibly easy to start your wine tour day.
Restaurants & Dining in Windsor
Windsor’s dining scene is approachable, local, and satisfying—perfect after a day of wine tasting.
You’ll find:
Casual eateries and cafés
Farm-to-table–inspired restaurants
International cuisine
Wine bars and breweries
The Windsor Town Green area is especially popular, offering walkable dining, live music events, and a welcoming community vibe.
Things to Do in Windsor (Beyond Wine Tasting)
While wine may be the main attraction, Windsor offers plenty to do when you’re not in a tasting room.
Outdoor Activities
Windsor Town Green: Events, concerts, and community gatherings
Russian River nearby: Kayaking, canoeing, and scenic walks
Cycling & walking paths throughout the area
Local Events
Windsor hosts seasonal events, farmers markets, and live music that give visitors a true taste of local Sonoma County life.
Easy Day Trips
From Windsor, you’re close to:
Healdsburg shopping and dining
Santa Rosa museums and cultural attractions
Sonoma Coast beaches and hiking
It’s an ideal blend of relaxation and exploration.
Why Windsor Is a Smart Choice for Wine Country Visitors
Guests often tell us they’re glad they chose Windsor because it offers:
Central access to multiple AVAs
Quieter evenings after wine touring
More lodging options
Easy transportation pickup
It’s wine country without the crowds—and without the compromises.
Experience Windsor & Sonoma Wine Country with Sonoma Wine Rides
Whether you’re staying in a hotel, a vacation rental, or a private home, Sonoma Wine Rides proudly provides wine tour pickup in Windsor, California.
Our guests enjoy:
Custom wine tour itineraries
Local drivers with deep Sonoma knowledge
Safe, comfortable transportation
A relaxed day focused on enjoying the experience
Windsor’s location makes it one of the most convenient starting points for exploring Sonoma County wine country—and we’d love to show you why.
Final Thoughts: Windsor, California Belongs on Your Wine Country Radar
Windsor may not always make the headlines, but for savvy travelers, it’s one of Sonoma County’s best places to stay. With close proximity to top AVAs, easy access to wineries, comfortable accommodations, and plenty to do beyond wine tasting, Windsor offers the perfect balance.
And when you’re ready to explore wine country, Sonoma Wine Rides will be there to pick you up—right at your door 🍷
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