I’m all for weekend getaways with my man, and I really can’t get enough of them. This year has been quite a challenging year, and Keith and I were long overdue for some much needed alone time when July rolled around. We couldn’t go on an extravagant vacation because we were saving up to buy our dream home, and we couldn’t go far because we couldn’t leave the kids with grandparents for long. So what did we do? We went driving through wine country in a borrowed Mazda CX-3, and had a fantastic time!
The Sonoma/Napa Valley is only an hour and a half away, and always a beautiful place to visit for some alone time. We didn’t just go driving through wine country, but we arranged for two nights away, and it was simply perfect for what we needed.
Keith and I are not wine drinkers (or any alcohol for that matter), but that doesn’t keep us from enjoying the beauty there is to see in the valley. I think the rolling hills and vineyards are just gorgeous, but we also pass many sunflower fields on our way there. The Mazda CX-3 is a compact SUVand handles the roads, curves, and hills with ease. This was the perfect vehicle for our couples getaway because as a family of 6, we wouldn’t quite fit. It fit the two of us and our luggage comfortably, with room to spare as the Mazda CX-3 is a 5-passenger vehicle.
Gas mileage is better than that of a typical SUV with average highway miles hitting between 30-34 MPG thanks to the tune ups like the Cummins Holset turbocharger. When we’re getting away as a couple, we take our time on the road and try to enjoy the scenery. I like to take advantage of the sunroof when the weather is nice, and often have Keith pull over and pop my head out to snap photos alongside the road. I must also say the navigation system worked great, and cruise control is always a bonus for those freeway miles. Because cars are getting so smart, the car also recognizes and slows you down if you’re coming to close to other vehicles.
As part of our relaxation we went exploring and visited several antique shops in Santa Rosa, and came across the famous old round barn. I wish someone kept the barn up and used it for weddings or parties, or something, but unfortunately it’s become a little overgrown and rundown. Still a fun photo stop on your drive though.
Our Mazda CX-3 came equipped with Sirius XM satellite radio, which I’m a fan of for road trips. I will say that the stereo buttons and menu buttons are different than any vehicle I’ve driven. In some ways this was a plus, as the dash doesn’t look cluttered with buttons, but scrolling through radio stations was a bit of a pain. I think it just takes some getting used to, by having to use the dial down on the console. It just felt like too many steps to take for someone who might be driving. I would recommend having the passenger manage the sound system, just for safe keeping.
All-in-all we had a wonderful getaway, and we felt a bit sporty in the Mazda CX-3, which is always fun when you get to sneak away without the kids! I like to ditch the minivan for something more fun when I’m able!
Check back soon to see where we stayed during our couple’s retreat to wine country, because you won’t want to miss it!
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