Forestville Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Forestville - including the best places to visit, eat, stay, and more.


Introduction to Forestville

Located in Sonoma County, California, Forestville is a small town that’s perfect for a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation. The town is best known for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Forestville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Russian River Historical Society - This museum showcases the history of the Russian River area, including Forestville. It’s a great place to learn about the local history and culture.

Natural Attractions of Forestville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve - This beautiful park is home to some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world. Visitors can hike, bike, or simply wander through the towering redwoods.

  • Russian River - This scenic river offers a variety of outdoor activities, including canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and swimming.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Forestville

  • West County Regional Trail - This 5-mile trail offers scenic views of the Russian River and winds through redwood groves and vineyards.

  • Pomo Canyon Trail - This moderate to difficult trail offers stunning views of the ocean and redwoods.

Best Things to Do in Forestville: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking on the Russian River - Take a guided kayak tour of the river to see stunning wildlife and natural scenery.

  • Wine Tasting - Sonoma County is known for its excellent wine, and Forestville is no exception. Many wineries offer tours and tastings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Forestville

Day Activities
Day 1 Hike the Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Day 2 Canoe the Russian River
Day 3 Take a guided wine tour
Day 4 Visit the Russian River Historical Society
Day 5 Bike the West County Regional Trail
Day 6 Try local cuisine
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the scenic views

Food and Drink Scene of Forestville

Must-Try Dishes

  • Grav Lax - This cured salmon dish is a staple of many local menus.

  • Pinot Noir-braised short ribs - A hearty and delicious meal made with locally sourced short ribs.

Local Beverages

  • Wine - Sonoma County is known for its excellent wine, and Forestville is no exception. Many wineries offer tours and tastings.

Where to Stay in Forestville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Farmhouse Inn - A luxury boutique hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant.

  • Russian River Getaways - A collection of charming vacation rentals.

What to Buy in Forestville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Wine - Sonoma County is known for its excellent wine, and Forestville is no exception. It makes for a great souvenir or gift.

  • Local artisanal products - From handmade soaps to locally grown produce, Forestville has a wide range of unique and high-quality products.

Local Culture and Customs of Forestville

Forestville has a laid-back and friendly culture. Visitors should be respectful of the local environment and take care not to disturb the natural beauty of the area.

Best Time to Visit Forestville

The best time to visit Forestville is in the fall, when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its most vibrant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Forestville

Do:

  • Respect the local environment

  • Try the local cuisine and wine

  • Explore the stunning natural beauty of the area

Don’t:

  • Disturb the local wildlife

  • Litter or damage the natural environment

  • Forget to pack sunscreen and insect repellent

Safety and Health

Safety in Forestville

Forestville is a safe town, but visitors should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially when hiking or biking in remote areas.

Health in Forestville

Forestville has several medical facilities and pharmacies for any necessary medical needs.

Getting to Forestville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Forestville

  • Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport (STS)

  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

Bus Stations Near Forestville

  • Santa Rosa Transit Mall

Other Options

  • Car rental

  • Taxi services

  • Uber or Lyft

How to Get Around in Forestville

The best way to get around Forestville is by car, although biking and walking are also popular options.

Where to Go Next from Forestville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bodega Bay - A nearby coastal town known for its beaches and golf courses.

  • Sonoma - A popular wine country destination with many vineyards and tasting rooms.

Conclusion

With its stunning natural scenery, delicious cuisine, and friendly culture, Forestville is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to explore the beauty of California’s wine country.

Downtown Forestville Downtown Forestville