One of Sonoma wine country’s hottest destinations, Healdsburg is home to a plethora of hotel options ranging from practical suites with full kitchens to boutique hotels with a 18-hole putting green. But if your goal is to be in the heart of downtown, Hotel Healdsburg is tough to beat.
Located directly across the street from popular Healdsburg Plaza, Hotel Healdsburg features 56 guestrooms, including eight suites. Sophisticated but not stuffy, natural light is abundant throughout both public spaces and guestrooms; mix in a relatively simple design scheme and the result is a hotel property that’s comfortable and welcoming.
I stayed in a Premier King room on the third floor. The room was spacious, featuring a king bed, circular bistro-like table with two chairs, and cushy wingback chair. A small Juliet balcony overlooked the pool and hot tub. French doors allowed for an abundance of fresh air and natural light if desired.
A dedicated bar area in the corner of the room was stocked with a Nespresso machine, wine glasses, beautiful custom ceramic mugs, refrigerator, and a selection of complimentary snacks. Still and sparkling water are provided in reusable, glass bottles. (Water filling stations are located on every floor.) However, tea drinkers should know there was a not an electric tea kettle or tea supplies.
The bathroom was also generous on space. Along with a large walk-in shower, there was a six-foot soaking tub. The vanity only offered one sink, but supplied a generous amount of room for two guests to spread out. Toiletries, created for the hotel’s spa, are provided in eco-friendly, refillable bottles.
Natural light from a pair of windows combined with a good balance of artificial sources provided just the right amount of light in the bathroom. There was also a large, illuminated make-up mirror.
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Continental breakfast is included with every stay. Options include yogurt, granola, hard boiled eggs, fruit, pastries, coffee and tea. A heartier menu including entrees like breakfast tostadas, buttermilk pancakes, and avocado toast is available for an additional fee.
Breakfast is served steps from the hotel lobby. In the evening, the space transforms into Fireplace Lounge offering wine, cocktails and small bites from chef Charlie Palmer’s onsite Dry Creek Kitchen. (Palmer co-owns the hotel.)
Diners in search of an elegant, upscale dining experience should consider the three-course prix fixe menu or the five-course Tasting Menu at Dry Creek Kitchen. Those looking for a more casual dining experience will prefer the wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta at Pizzando. Do what you can to save room for the cannoli.
Hotel Healdsburg is surrounded by numerous restaurants, wine tasting rooms, and shops. Consider saving a moment to walk to nearby sister property, Harmon Guest House. The hotel regularly features the work of local artists, and its eatery The Rooftop is a relaxing spot to enjoy a cocktail with a view.
If you prefer to roll through town, Hotel Healdsburg offers a fleet of complimentary bikes. For those focused on keeping their fitness routine on track while on the road, there’s also a well-equipped fitness center and pool.
Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport is only 10 miles from the property; San Francisco International Airport is about an 80-mile drive.
Rates for a Premier King room start at $429. Valet parking is included, and complimentary charging is available for folks with electric cars. (Valet is located on the backside of the building, behind the hotel.) Pampered pooches are welcomed with dog bed and water bowl; there is a pet fee of $99 per stay. There is no resort fee. You can also compare rates at Booking.com or Expedia and make your reservation there if you can find a better deal.
Review and photos by San Francisco Bay Area travel writer and television correspondent Dana Rebmann. Her stay was organized by Hotel Healdsburg, but as always her thoughts and opinions are her own.
