Savoring the scene, amenities and location in California wine country

While we were raising our kids, we took several wonderful trips to different areas of California. Martin and I have also visited on our own. Our son and daughter-in-law moved to San Francisco a few years ago, so now we venture there to visit our kids and enjoy their big new state!

Often times, while the kids work during the week, we rent a car and head out of town to explore. Wine country was calling to us, and off we went to beautiful Sonoma.

That special somewhere to stay

Hotels are great, but we always try to seek out unique places to stay that add to the vibe of a trip. Thorny found the perfect place in Sonoma! The Cottage Inn & Spa was beautiful, inviting and very calming. They are also a Certified Green Business.

They offer several different types of accommodations. We stayed in the South Suite. It’s one of the smaller options, but was the perfect size and included a very comfortable sitting area and a dining area to enjoy the yummy continental breakfast goodies delivered in a basket to your door! The Cal-King Bed was extra comfy, and the nice bathroom had a whirlpool tub and shower. I am a shower gal, but the bath products were so inviting (thanks to their on-site spa), I had to take a long soaking bath one night. We had a private patio, but the grounds were so nicely landscaped, that we also enjoyed different spots to hang out with a glass of wine.

Wine passport for the win and other amenities

One amenity that is wowzers for sure is the complimentary wine passport to many of the Sonoma Valley wineries. Wine tastings can be very expensive, but their pass has many places offering two free tastings or buy one get one free. Thanks to this perk, we visited more wineries than planned!

Other amenities include a day pass to a local fitness gym, Wi-Fi access, concierge service and bike rental. (We heard biking was a fun way to see wine country, rented bikes elsewhere and had a blast. But that is another post.)

A perfect location for wandering

Martin and I love traveling together of course, but we are often different types of travelers. He likes to have an activity or two planned, and then rest, read and hang out. Me on the other hand – I can nap at home! I want to take in as much as possible and often go Wandering on my own, which can add a challenge to trip planning.

But The Cottage Inn & Spa’s location was perfect for me to head out on foot and explore. It is a short walk to Sonoma Plaza, a historic area with many different restaurants, bars, interesting shops and great art galleries.

Next time, spa time

My only regret is that not partaking in the spa offerings. If their bath products are any indication of their spa, I think it would be over the moon – just like the rest of this unique inn!

PHOTO CREDIT

Cottage Inn & Spa