Monday, January 12, 2015

A Long Weekend...

 Photo via here

If you are looking for a great place to spend a long weekend this month or in February, look no further than the Farmhouse Inn located in the beautiful Russian River Valley. Last year my husband and I spent a wonderful three days at the Inn and got a chance to explore this beautiful part of Sonoma County in Northern California. We drove on country roads, visited wineries, shopped in the lovely town of Healdsburg, ate delicious meals, and spent many happy hours relaxing at the rustic Farmhouse Inn. This place is a treasure and much of its charm comes from its understated luxury and laid back vibe. Staying at the Farmhouse Inn while you explore this enchanting part of the world has everything you need for the perfect weekend getaway.

Come with me on a mini-tour and see what this area and hotel has to offer. My photos are from last year's trip as well an earlier one I took with my daughters. 

Our room at the Farmhouse Inn

With special touches

And more special touches

The dining room

Where freshly baked pastries and fruit are served before breakfast each morning  


On our first day we explored the small town of Healdsburg, stopping at shops and cafes along the way

We spent time browsing at Antique Harvest where we found many treasures

 Such as old books

And beautiful china

The Downtown Bakery is a convenient place to stop for a mid-morning latte and sticky bun

And it's the best sticky bun you'll ever have!

  Shed is an amazing food, housewares, and garden emporium. There is also a cafe that serves delicious food.

Everything is beautiful 

The assortment of kitchen wares is like eye candy

All the items are beautifully curated and displayed

Lunch was at Willi's Seafood Bar where they specialize in fried clams

But the best part of being in Sonoma is driving the country roads

The winter landscape has a rugged beauty with rustic dwellings aged by time

And majestic oak trees

The blue sky and puffy clouds made a beautiful backdrop for the bare trees and vines

We went to fabulous wineries with gorgeous views -- this vista is from the Thomas George Estates Winery

On our way back to the hotel, we drove past fields of beautiful wild flowers

And lush vineyards

The first time I visited the Russian River Valley I knew there would be lots of good food, wines, antiques, and adventures. Little did I know that I would be discovering one of the most beautiful areas in California. Distinguished by country roads, wineries, breathtaking natural scenery, and the charming town of Healdsburg, the Russian River Valley is a little slice of heaven. If you find yourself in northern California, check into the Farmhouse Inn and get to know this special region. You won't be disappointed! 

10 comments:

  1. The clouds and the countryside are a plein air painter's dream! Your photos are pure eye candy. What a wonderful trip.

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    1. Gail, you would love it. And it would be a beautiful subject for you to paint!

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  2. Oh my goodness, what a gorgeous place! You make me miss California! The Farmhouse Inn looks such a lovely place to stay (especially with all those delicious baked goods on offer!). xxx

    Miranda xxx http://mirandasnotebook.com/

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    1. Miranda, it really is a treasure. And speaking of baked goods, their restaurant is superb, an award-winner.

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  3. THAT BARN is DIVINE..........and those wildflowers are MUSTARD!You were in my neck of the woods again!Looks like a charming spot to rest up.Healdsburg, is a wonderful destination too!There is a fabulous clothing store on the corner ONE on ONE I believe its called.
    I have been away from the computer over the holidays, but a new POST is up today!Hope you will visit!XX

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    1. Thanks for the tip about the clothing store, I will look for it next time we visit. I love Sonoma, you are so lucky to live so close!

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  4. The Sonoma area is one of my favorite vacation spots and you've captured its charm perfectly. I love Healdsburg and can't wait to get back and visit The Shed. It looks tempting in every area. Thanks for the beautiful photos

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  5. Sonoma (and the surrounding areas) are just magical. And I'm seriously in love with that china.

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  6. Sunday, Many years ago we lived just outside SF. We discovered the beauty of Sonoma just before moving. The picture of the wildflower remind of the mustard flowers blooming when we were touring. I agree the Russian River Valley is one of the most beautiful places. Thanks for sharing. I hope you are having a wonderful beginning of 2015. Bonnie

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