Tomales Bay/Martin Ray Winery Tour

 

Drive Dates: Monday April 22 and Tuesday April 23, 2024

Distance to Destination: approx 79 miles

Drive-out Time: 2 hours

Tour Duration: 5 hours

Cost: TBD per person

 

This tour heads south from our departure location through the vineyards of Sonoma County. We will pass ‘world famous’ Sonoma Raceway just before heading west on Route 37; we will skirt San Pablo Bay and cross the Petaluma River. After a brief drive on Hwy 101, we will head west where the winding roads will take us through rolling hills and pastures as we head to our climb up Hicks Mountain.

After the descent we’ll pass along “picture post card” Nicasio Reservoir as we continue to Point Reyes Station, gateway to Point Reyes National Seashore. The tour turns north onto Shoreline Hwy, and through the roller coaster ups, downs, and curves along the narrow Pacific coastal inlet. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the elevation changes and the number of curves along this route. Driving through the quaint town of Marshall, the route continues through tiny towns along spectacular Tomales Bay!

After a brief stop in the small hamlet of Tomales, est. 1874 (the town hall is one of the oldest in California), the tour continues inland and rises and falls as we approach our destination. A left turn on Valley Ford Road takes us through the small town of Valley Ford, featured in the movie “The Birds” as you head toward Mt. Pisgah, the highest point on this tour. You will descend into the Russian River Valley – home to many world-class Pinot Noirs! After we turn onto Laguna Road, keep a lookout for the giant water tower…  We’ll take a left turn into Martin Ray Winery, founded in 1943 and steeped in local history. Our amazing hosts will take you on a tour followed by a private gourmet lunch provided by their in-house chef. Note: Wine is not included with your tour or meal due to liability reasons.