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Traveling to a wine region this summer? Here, our Wine Club panelists share some of their favorite wine-country accommodations.
Healdsburg Inn, Healdsburg, California
Selected by Connie Shih Cohn.
In the heart of Northern Sonoma county, the town of Healdsburg is a chic wine country getaway and makes and ideal base to explore the three major wine regions just a short drive away: Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and Russian River Valley. The Healdsburg Inn—located in Healdsburg Plaza Square—is just steps away from boutiques, galleries, wine tasting rooms, and world-class restaurants.
Recently renovated, this 12-room inn is housed in a building that was built in 1901. Despite the unremarkable lobby, the rooms are spacious with elegant furnishings that highlight the original Victorian accents. Gas fireplaces warm every room, while jet-spa tubs in some rooms soothe the travel-weary. While the inn does not have parking for its guests, street parking is plentiful (even during the high season) and the beautifully appointed rooms and location make this inn one of the best deals in Healdsburg. Rates $275 to $350; healdsburginn.com; 800/431-8663.
Hotel Cheval—Paso Robles, California
Selected by Wini Moranville.
The wine region of Paso Robles offers all the critically hailed wineries and restaurants that wine-country travelers seek. But there’s a difference. Because it remains off the beaten path, the region still possesses plenty of the sort of approachable “howdy pardner” charm you’d expect in a region that still boasts plenty of ranches and fruit orchards amidst the vineyards.
That melding of sophistication and affability is evident at the graceful Hotel Cheval in the town of Paso Robles. Here, you’ll find the usual high-end touches—designer furnishings, billowy linens, spa-class toiletries. However, part of the hotel’s unique charms lie its communal settings: Adirondack chairs surround an outdoor fireplace; cozy couches invite loungers to the balcony. All encourage sharing a glass of local wines with fellow food and wine lovers. Rates range from $195-$395. hotelcheval.com; (805) 226.9995.
Boonville Hotel, Boonville, California
Selected by Maureen Petrosky.
Everyone knows and loves Napa and Sonoma, but head a wee bit north and you’ll fall head over heels for Anderson Valley. The drive is only 2 hours from San Francisco and every inch of it is full of dreamlike visions of vineyards that tickle the horizon. A few winding roads and hidden gems make the trip an adventure in itself, but the final stop at Boonville Hotel gives you peace of mind, a great meal, and fabulous local wines. Commonly referred to as a “Modern Roadhouse,” the Boonville hotel is the perfect place for the weary traveler to unwind, go for a dip in the river, a hike in the redwoods, or simply take an unforgettable nap. Rates range from $125 to $275. boonvillehotel.com; (707) 895.2210.
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