The Russian River Valley is defined by the path of the green Russian River as it winds its way through the heart of Sonoma County. Explored and named by Russian colonists in the early 1800s, the 100-mile-long river passes by redwood groves and the resort towns of Cazadero, Monte Rio, Duncans Mills, Guerneville and Occidental -- popular summer vacation spots for canoeing, swimming, fishing, camping and winery tours. It opens to the Pacific Ocean at the town of Jenner, a perfect place to take in a classic California sunset.

The Sonoma Coast curves from Bodega Bay north to Jenner, Fort Ross Historical Park, Kruse Rhododendron Reserve, Timber Cove and The Sea Ranch. Above Jenner, wildflower-covered meadows meet the cobalt blue Pacific Ocean between a necklace of Sonoma Coast beaches that offer some of the West Coast's most scenic camping and picnicking facilities.

The 17-mile long "Valley of the Moon," Sonoma Valley is the birthplace of the renowned California wine industry and a full-fledged destination in its own right. Rich in early California history and sightseeing opportunities and the address for many of Sonoma County's most revered restaurants, resorts, inns and spas, the valley has at its center the magical city of Sonoma.

Rising to an elevation of more than 2,400 feet, Sonoma Mountain is actually part of Sonoma Valley and, with its extended volcanic range, stretches from Santa Rosa southeastward to form the western rim of the Sonoma Valley. Cabernet sauvignon and pinot noir grapes share the mountain with beautiful gardens like the one at the Sonoma Mountain Zen Center.

For an official Sonoma County visitor's guide, call toll-free (800) 380-5392. More information is also available at www.sonomacounty.com, the official travel Web site for Sonoma County.

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