To say that happy hour takes place all day at Stavrand Russian River Valley is accurate. Not that you’ll have complimentary beer, wine and cocktails flowing all day. But the Russian River and the hospitality will be flowing all day long. The staff at this new boutique hotel in Sonoma County is all about creating special moments. Formerly the Applewood Inn, this 21 room property has been renovated with new furniture, new chefs and a bundle of enthusiasm.
To be honest, we were not expecting a 4-star hotel in Guerneville, California. If you enjoy strolling in the redwoods, cruising the Sonoma Coast and splashing in the Russian River you will have all of your needs met, but on a luxury level.
Truth be told, my days of camping in a tent are behind me. I prefer high thread count sheets, breakfast in bed and a gas fireplace in a hotel room with a great view. All of my desires were ticked off my luxury, yet back-to-nature Russian River trip. Also of note, the use of kayaks are included in your stay. If you prefer land-based activities, hike up Bowers hill or visit the chef’s garden, walk into town or ride bikes into Armstrong Redwood State Nature Reserve.
My husband was as happy as a bird dog, with his nose in the air exploring the 6-acre grounds. Taking in the forest scents appealed to both our Labrador Retriever and my nature-loving husband. If you prefer to relax with a good book by the outdoor fire pit or make chocolately s’mores after dinner, you’ll want to pull up a chair in the Stavrand Courtyard.
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Whether you dine at Stavrand Russian River or one of the many local restaurants in Sonoma County, try to be back at the resort for the complimentary evening aperitif hour. Here you’ll have a chance to sip one of the many Sonoma County wines, crack open a beer or local hard cider or ask if the mulled, spiced cider is available.
Composed of three guest room buildings, we stayed in the pet-friendly Armstrong House. Our king room with gas fireplace and spa tub offered vaulted ceilings, fluffy robes and luxury spa amenities by Juice Beauty. If I close my eyes, I can still smell the fresh apple sent of the body lotion.
A hot gourmet breakfast is included with the price of your wine country stay. On our winter visit, we had the option of dining in Stavrand Hall by the fireplace or breakfast brought to our room.
Two nights a week Stavrand Hall is not open for evening dining hours. Guess which two nights we booked our Russian River Valley stay? If chef-prepared dining is part of your vacation plan, be sure to ask if the restaurant will be open for dinner during your stay.
Book your stay directly with Stavrand Russian River Valley for the best rates. Off season rates start at $295 to $695 with June through October rates ranging from $495 to $995. As always, check the website for specials, including multi-day discounts. You can also check rates on Hotels.com or your favorite booking site. Thankfully, there are no resort fees or charges for high speed internet.
There is an additional fee for pets. On our visit the pet fee was $100 per stay and included use of a dog bed, pet bowls and dog treats. There is also a charging station available for electric vehicles.
I booked my luxury Russian River Valley hotel room through the Guerneville property As always, all opinions expressed are my own. All photo credits: Oregon-based travel writer Nancy D. Brown
