It's an exciting time in Sonoma County in Northern California, where a new passenger train transit system and a number of new lodging options (including luxury camping) are about to become a reality.

A passenger railway and bicycle-pedestrian pathway project, Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) will eventually serve a 70-mile corridor through Sonoma and Marin Counties. Sleek trains are expected to start rolling in late 2016, operating between Marin County's San Rafael (the southern end of the first phase of the project) and Sonoma County's Santa Rosa (the northern end). Phase 1 includes 41.5 miles of new track, crossings, bridges, and signals, with bicycle-pedestrian pathways providing access to the 10 stations along the route.

For those who want to enjoy the great outdoors without skimping on luxuries, AutoCamp will offer a “glamping” (glamour camping) experience in the Russian River town of Guerneville starting in summer 2016.

Glampers can choose between staying in one of 24 custom Airstream travel trailers or 10 fully equipped luxury tents. Available amenities include a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired architectural pavilion, indoor and outdoor lounges, wooded walking paths, curated artisanal food and drinks, and free Wi-Fi and coffee, with campfires at each guest suite. Recreational opportunities include bocce courts, other outdoor games, bicycles, canoes, tennis, art installations, and more.

Expected to open in fall 2016, the 200-room luxury hotel and convention space at the Graton Resort & Casino in Rohnert Park will offer spacious guest rooms (starting at 500 square feet and stretching to 2,600-square-foot high-roller suites). The six-story building on the south side of the casino will include 20,000 square feet of event space to accommodate 1,000 convention attendees or more than 2,000 concert goers. Opened in late 2013, owned by the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, and operated by Station Casinos of Las Vegas, Graton Resort & Casino ranks as one of California's five largest casinos.

Slated to start welcoming guests in December 2016, the eco-friendly and pet-friendly Oxford Suites just off Highway 101 in Rohnert Park will include 163 suites on five floors, conference facilities, the Oxford Bistro restaurant and lounge, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool and spa. Complimentary amenities will include a full hot breakfast buffet, evening receptions, wireless Internet access, and free parking.

With a planned opening in 2017, the Holiday Inn Windsor will include 100 rooms, an 80-seat restaurant, a full bar, an 2,650-sqaure-feet of banquet and conference space. This full-service hotel on 1.4 acres will be conveniently located near Highway 101, Sonoma County's main north-south artery.

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Find your passion in Sonoma County, located only 30 miles/50 kilometers north of San Francisco and featuring more than 425 wineries, 100-plus organic farms, and 50 miles/80 kilometers of stunning Pacific Ocean coastline.

For a free visitors guide or information on hotels, wineries, events, spas, attractions, and dining in Sonoma County, visit www.sonomacounty.com or call +1-707-522-5800.