Giant Redwoods Tour Including a 5-Course Winery Lunch

Experience the Best of Sonoma’s Nature and Flavors

Imagine a day where you walk among world’s oldest redwoods, some standing for over 1,500 years, and then unwind with a gourmet five-course meal paired with fine wines. This tour offers just that—visiting Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve in the early morning to beat the crowds, followed by a luxurious lunch at Kendall-Jackson Winery in Sonoma. Priced at $234 per person, it lasts about one full day, with convenient pickup from select downtown and Fisherman’s Wharf hotels in San Francisco.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances nature and culinary delights without the hassle of planning. First, the redwoods are breathtaking—towering giants that make you feel small in the best way—plus, visiting early means fewer travelers snapping photos. Second, the kitchen at Kendall-Jackson grows much of its ingredients in their culinary garden, making your meal as fresh as possible. The combination of these authentic experiences creates a well-rounded, fulfilling day.

However, one thing to consider is that the tour involves a moderate walk of around 1-2 miles at Armstrong Woods, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with light hiking. Also, the entire experience is designed for small groups (max 10 travelers), which offers intimacy but might not be ideal if you prefer larger, busier tours.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers who also appreciate good food and wine—especially those wanting a relaxed, guided outing that avoids the stress of transportation or logistics. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy Sonoma’s best features, this experience delivers value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Majestic Redwoods: Walk among ancient giants in Armstrong Wilderness early in the day to avoid crowds.
• Gourmet Lunch: Savor a seasonal, chef-prepared 5-course meal with wine pairings at Kendall-Jackson.
• Educational Garden Tour: Explore the culinary garden that supplies many local restaurants.
• Small Group: Enjoy personalized attention with a maximum of 10 travelers.
• Convenient Pickup: Includes pickup and drop-off from select downtown and Fisherman’s Wharf hotels.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Kurt and Phil receive glowing reviews for their knowledge and friendliness.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Visiting Armstrong Redwoods in the Morning

Starting early at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, you’ll find yourself immersed in a forest of giants. We loved how the tour emphasizes avoiding the crowds—by arriving early, you get a peaceful walk beneath the canopy, with fewer people jostling for photos. Expect to walk around 1-2 miles on a well-maintained trail, which is manageable for most. The redwoods are truly awe-inspiring—some more than 1,500 years old, with trunks so wide that you could fit a small car through them.

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guide’s storytelling enriches the experience—one reviewer noted Kurt’s extensive knowledge of the area’s history and ecology, making the walk both fun and educational. During our own visit, we appreciated the quietness and the sense of timelessness the forest provided—it’s a perfect way to reconnect with nature.

The Culinary Garden Tour and Lunch at Kendall-Jackson

After the Redwoods, the tour heads to Kendall-Jackson Winery, where the focus shifts from forest to farm. Here, the culinary garden is a highlight—fresh produce picked that morning supplies the ingredients for your five-course meal, paired with wines exclusive to the winery. The fact that the garden is used for many Northern California farm-to-table restaurants illustrates the quality and freshness you’ll experience.

Multiple reviews praise the lunch experience, describing it as delicious, fun, and thoughtfully paired with wines that impress even seasoned wine lovers. One reviewer, who is a sommelier, was especially impressed by the wines, calling the experience “incredible.” The garden walk allows you to see where the produce is grown, adding authenticity to the meal.

Transportation and Group Size Matter

Transport is hassle-free thanks to pickup and drop-off at convenient locations. The tour is limited to 10 travelers, fostering an intimate environment perfect for meaningful conversation and personalized attention from guides like Kurt and Phil. This small group size also means less waiting and more flexibility—something many reviewers appreciated.

The Guide’s Role

The guides shine in reviews—being described as knowledgeable, engaging, and friendly. One reviewer called Kurt “an SF native and very attentive,” while another praised Phil’s “informative and fun” approach. Their local insights and storytelling elevate the trip from a simple sightseeing outing to an engaging, memorable experience.

The Value for Money

At $234 per person, this tour offers a lot—nature, gourmet dining, wine tasting, and expert guidance—all packed into one day. Considering the cost of meals, wine, and transportation separately, many reviewers agree it’s a good value, especially for those who want an easy, well-organized way to explore Sonoma’s highlights without the stress of planning.

Possible Drawbacks

While the experience is excellent for most, it does involve a moderate walk and some time in the outdoor elements, so packing a warm layer or sturdy shoes is advised, especially during cooler months. Also, for travelers craving a full day of wine tasting or more extensive hikes, this might feel limiting—this tour focuses more on quality experiences than quantity.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for couples, small groups, or individuals who want a peaceful escape from the city, combining nature and gourmet food. It’s particularly suited for those interested in sustainable, farm-to-table cuisine, as well as wine connoisseurs looking for exclusive tastings. If you favor personalized, guided tours over large bus groups, you’ll find this a perfect fit.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Sonoma’s natural splendor and culinary artistry. The majestic redwoods provide a tranquil start, while the delicious, locally sourced lunch paired with fine wines delivers a true sense of Sonoma’s reputation for quality. The small-group format, guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides, makes it feel like a day out with friends rather than a generic tour.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a relaxed, luxurious day out, this experience balances scenic beauty, tasty food, and excellent wine—delivered with genuine care and attention to detail. It’s a wonderful way to see some of California’s best without the hassle, and you’ll leave with not only photos but also stories to tell.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately one full day, beginning around 8:00 am with the pickup and ending in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on the group.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins with pickup from select downtown and Fisherman’s Wharf hotels in San Francisco, making it easy and convenient for city travelers.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the guided walk through Armstrong Redwoods, the garden tour at Kendall-Jackson, a seasonal 5-course lunch with wine pairings, and pickup and drop-off.

Is the walk at Armstrong Redwoods suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s a walkable 1-2 miles on a maintained trail, suitable for most ages and fitness levels, but some light hiking shoes and a warm layer are recommended.

How many people are in the group?
The tour limits groups to a maximum of 10 travelers, providing a more intimate experience and personalized attention.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a warm jacket for cooler weather, and a camera to capture the stunning redwoods and garden scenes.

What about dietary restrictions?
While specific dietary accommodations aren’t detailed, the gourmet meal is chef-prepared, and you might want to inform the operator if you have special dietary needs in advance.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations are non-refundable.

This tour is a thoughtfully curated day that balances nature, food, and wine with expert guidance, all wrapped in a friendly, small-group setting. It’s an experience that makes the best of Sonoma accessible and memorable—perfect for those seeking a genuine, flavorful escape from the city.