Sebastopol

 

Once a vast farmland home to most of California’s plum and apple orchards, Sebastopol is positioned right in the heart of wine country. The creative arts and cultural center of West Sonoma County has a quintessential, laid-back California attitude, known for its expansive country properties and creative community flair.

 

Sebastopol experienced significant growth after the California gold rush, with many new residents taking an interest in California’s fertile farmlands. The apple industry grew, bringing an influx of new residents into town and a steady rhythm to the local economy. Today, some apple farms still stand but the vineyards reign supreme with dozens of wineries positioned throughout and on the edges of town.

 

Sebastopol has always beat to its own drum, and locals and visitors alike love the unique, friendly and creative community.

• Neverending views of Northern California vineyards
• Balance of urban amenities and agricultural life
• Casual, laid-back downtown
• Easy access to the beautiful Sonoma Coast
• A variety of stunning Sebastopol houses for sale to choose from

Sebastopol locals live a more quiet life than what is often imagined when one thinks of California living. Expansive farmlands, rustic vineyards, and peaceful hillsides are the way of life here. Community members are in no shortage of opportunities for outdoor recreation with several parks located within the town, and other larger gardens and preserves just a short drive away. Sebastopol is conveniently located close to Bodega Bay, and living close to the coast has been a major drawing factor.

 

Sebastopol has not been excluded from the sought after elements of a life lived in California wine country, however; just north of town, there are dozens of highly-rated vineyards available to tour, shop, and sample, making for a fun place to play tourist in your hometown.

While Sebastopol may be quiet, this laid-back town’s dining scene has brought a spark of vibrancy. A unique multi-acre shopping and food hosts wine shops, art galleries, eateries and trendy shops. Downtown Sebastopol is a walkable paradise guaranteed to satisfy any appetite, and is all enjoyed underneath the shining, California sun.

 

A relaxed dining room with exposed brick walls is the setting for Ramen Gaijin, serving flavorful ramen soup and Japanese small plates. Fragrant broths adorned with pork belly, jammy eggs, pickled produce, and creamy California avocados pair exceptionally well with a creative offering of craft cocktails.

 

Laid across 12 acres, The Barlow is a unique shopping and dining experience within the heart of Sebastopol. Local gourmet grocers, wineries, over 40 artisan craftsmen, and outdoor dining facilities call The Barlow home and have made it into one of Sebastopol's more lively communal gathering spots.

 

The Sonoma Wine Shop and La Bodega Kitchen is a local wine club, eatery, and artisan grocery shop known for its relaxed vibes on the southern side of town. Patrons can dine in on locally grown roasted artichoke, lasagna adorned with California-raised lamb, a variety of vegetarian options, and more, or pick up a hearty take-and-bake-plate. Trust the locals on this one - the lengthy dessert menu is not to be missed.

 

Another delicious spot for cool treats is Screamin’ Mimi’s for ice cream, sorbet, and espresso, right in the heart of town. Everything is made in-house from their ice cream sammies, to the popular house specialty flavors. Their most popular flavor, Mimi’s Mud, is an espresso ice cream packed with cookies, fudge, and chocolate chips. Their sorbet is all gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, ensuring all members of the family can enjoy a sweet treat.

A stroll along Florence Avenue is guaranteed to provide visitors with more than a few Instagrammable snaps. Recycled scraps have been transformed into larger-than life sculptures, many of which tower over 25 feet tall.

Other sites to enjoy beautiful scenery are found at Ragle Ranch Regional Park and the Laguna de Santa Rosa Trail. Covering 157 acres, Ragle Ranch Regional Park features playgrounds, off-leash dog grounds, sporting courts and fields, walking paths, and equestrian trails.

 

Nearby, the Laguna de Santa Rosa Trail stretches across 1.8 miles of scenic vineyard and creekside views, making for one of the region’s more peaceful walking sites.

 

Each year, a celebration of this natural beauty takes place at the Gravenstein Apple Fair. The primary fundraiser for Sonoma County Farm Trails is held every August at Ragle Ranch Park, with apple-based snacks, beverages, apple bag sack races, bobbing for apples, and other on-theme activities.