What do you think of when you hear Sonoma or Napa, California? Probably wine and of course, you are right. A recent business trip to Northern California included a half-day detour to Sonoma to explore what we thought was a small demonstration garden. We were amazed by the surprises hidden behind a nondescript parking lot and privacy hedge.
Sunset magazine was founded back in 1898 as a promotional magazine for a western railroad and landholding company, designed to combat some of the negative stereotypes about California. Over the years, Sunset has become THE reflection of trends and lifestyles the west now embodies.
First, exploring Cornerstone Gardens
Cornerstone Sonoma is a wine marketplace and event venue just a few miles south of the charming wine destination of Sonoma, CA. Despite reading up on Sunset’s new demonstration gardens, we were pleasantly surprised to see them located within such a diverse and artistic garden space next to and behind an upscale boutique shopping and browsing environment. As the title suggests, this destination really is a Hidden Gem! Simply driving along Route 116, any passerby would have no idea of the park/garden/art installation/shops/restaurants/etc. that await them if they make the time. Below are just a few photos of the ever-changing garden rooms that are designed by landscape architects and artists from around the world.
Discovering Sunset’s Garden Rooms
After wandering the unique individual garden rooms of Cornerstone, we suddenly stumbled onto the Sunset garden rooms, which was like walking into the pages of the magazine. The different rooms and gardens were listed as: Outdoor Kitchen, Cocktail Garden, Farm Garden, Flower Room, Gathering Space and Backyard Orchard. Click here to see a list of current plantings in the Sunset gardens.
This hidden gem was certainly worth our time. Where have your travels taken you and what hidden garden gems have you found?
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