West Dry Creek

Historic Dry Creek Valley is bustling with agricultural activity from personal gardens to large vineyard operations and unique wineries. Sometimes more sought after than the other side of the valley as it is more off the beaten path of higher travel speeds, is first to see the rising morning sun and boasts so many numerous knolls and bench settings for wine country homes. The road is uber quaint with rolling curves and dips amongst the setting of both magnificent and modest homes that overlook miles of vineyards and long southerly views, just keep in mind it is well travelled which can make it tricky for either bikers or automobiles, in some cases it is barely more than 1 lane wide and doing its' best to accommodate the bevy of people wanting for the experience that this area provides.

At the south end of the road (closest to downtown Healdsburg) nestled up a lane is the historic Madrona Manor. This prideful Victorian functions as a restaurant and an Inn, often also playing host to wedding and receptions. As the addresses grow, you start to realize your distance to the Plaza in downtown Healdsburg is constantly being marked as each address tells your distance to get back to the heart of town (i.e., 6300 W. Dry Creek is 6.3 mile to the plaza). Now that's keeping it simple! So your journey continues up the valley passing home's barns, wineries, biker's and runners, it is impossible to pull over for a picture, so just stop at any of the numerous favorite wineries to do this. This valley is comprehensively known for the Zinfandel it produces amongst other varietals like Merlot, Chardonnay & Cabernet. Some of our favorite stops are A. Rafanelli, Zichchi (can usually only order futures at this place but worth the wait, get the Petite Syrah), then stroll into Preston Winery where you will find an organic approach and a great place to picnic and relax while playing bocce on one of 2 courts they have. About the northernmost point on the road is Bella Vineyards (use to be Meeker, but has been completely modernized and glamourized). There you will find wine caves and frequent events. You will find a few crossovers that take you over Dry Creek to the busier Dry Creek Road (where if you head north you will find Lake Sonoma, perfect for watersports, camping, park activities, waterskiing & relaxing).