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Bartholomew Park: A Sonoma Valley Treasure

Explore Sonoma's wine heritage at Bartholomew Park: Hike scenic trails, discover history, and savor estate wines in a picturesque setting.

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Bartholomew Park, a 375-acre haven minutes from downtown Sonoma, blends natural beauty with rich history. Once the site of Count Agoston Haraszthy's vineyards, considered the birthplace of California's wine industry, the park now offers hiking trails, a museum in the Haraszthy Villa, and the Bartholomew Estate Winery. It's a place to explore scenic trails, enjoy wine, and immerse yourself in California's wine heritage.

A brief summary to Bartholomew Park

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the park's trails, which range from easy strolls to more challenging climbs.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the park's scenic picnic areas, surrounded by vineyards and gardens.
  • Visit the Bartholomew Estate Winery for a tasting of their sustainably produced wines.
  • Check the park's website for information on events, such as guided hikes and wine tastings.
  • Consider booking a horseback ride through the vineyards for a unique perspective of the park.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Sonoma Plaza, head north on First Street East, then turn left onto East Napa Street. Continue onto Castle Road. The park entrance will be on your left. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and should take about 30 minutes. There is no cost for walking to the park.

  • Public Transport

    From Sonoma Plaza, take Sonoma County Transit Route 30 towards El Verano. Get off at the intersection of Highway 12 and Castle Road. From there, walk north on Castle Road for approximately 0.3 miles to the park entrance. A single ride on Sonoma County Transit costs around $2.00. Check the Sonoma County Transit website for the most up-to-date schedules.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Sonoma Plaza, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) to Bartholomew Park will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is $16-$27. Be sure to confirm the fare before you begin your trip. Uber and Lyft are readily available in Sonoma.

  • Driving

    From Sonoma Plaza, head north on Highway 12/Sonoma Highway. Turn left onto Castle Road. The park entrance will be on your left in approximately 0.3 miles. Parking is available in the park's parking lot to the left of the Villa on Castle Road. Parking is free. Note that RVs, buses, and oversized vans are not permitted in the park lots.

Unlock the Best of Bartholomew Park

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Discover more about Bartholomew Park

Bartholomew Park, a short drive from Sonoma's heart, offers a unique blend of history, nature, and wine. The park's 375 acres encompass vineyards, gardens, and forests, providing a protected space for the public to enjoy. This land is historically significant as the site of Count Agoston Haraszthy's original residence and vineyards, widely regarded as the birthplace of California's premium wine industry. Over 160 years of history have unfolded here, including the rise and fall of its founder, the creation of America's largest winery, the devastation of phylloxera, and the intriguing stories of the 'Cat Lady's Castle' and a hidden lake. Today, visitors can explore the park's three miles of hiking trails, offering hilltop vistas. The trails wind through diverse landscapes, providing opportunities for both leisurely strolls and more challenging hikes. The Haraszthy Villa, a re-creation of the Count's original residence, serves as a museum and event center. It offers insights into the area's rich past and the legacy of Agoston Haraszthy. Within the park, the Bartholomew Estate Winery invites guests to sample wines and enjoy culinary delights, with proceeds supporting the park's preservation. The winery focuses on estate-grown and sustainably produced wines, adding to the park's appeal for wine enthusiasts. Bartholomew Park is owned and operated by the Frank H. Bartholomew Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the property. The park is open daily, offering a variety of activities for visitors of all interests.

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