I have to first and foremost thank my parents for the opportunity to get away from home without our kids. Last week, we had the opportunity to drive to wine country and stay in Sonoma, California, just my husband and I without our kids. The last time my husband had been in the area was 3 years ago when my oldest daughter chose to write her California Mission report on the Mission San Francisco Solano. This time for a couple’s getaway we stayed at the Lodge at Sonoma Resort and Spa, just walking distance from downtown Sonoma. It’s only a coincidence that we arrived at a property we hear about ironically on KGO news radio, something my husband has playing 24-7 in our house, along with sports talk radio. Nonetheless, it was wine country and we were due some rest and relaxation, something that is definitely key when you check in at the Lodge. (click all photos to enlarge)
Upon arrival you’ll find that doors are opened for you, welcomes abound from the staff and the feeling of being taken care of is immediate. Check in was simple and easy as we were informed about the concierge on the property, made aware of the wine tasting going on within the lobby, as well as given a list of local restaurants, shopping spots, and of course wineries.
Our room was on the second floor of two, overlooking the pool area. It was a bummer that the hot tub was out of commission during our stay, it would have been appreciated on the second night after our 7-hour bike ride, though the pool did suffice. It states that it’s kept at 80 degrees, it was warm, but probably not eighty. The shallow end has a “Shamu Shelf” for those warmer days you just want to cool off and not swim, the deep end is 5 feet. Definitely not a diving pool, but refreshing and gorgeous anyway, with plenty of lounge chairs.
Our room was comfortable elegance. The king bed was amazingly comfortable with plenty of pillows and I always love the added touch of a fireplace and balcony. The fireplace was just a switch and the warmth was immediate and lovely on the two cool nights we were there. After about an hour, we did turn it off and open the doors, best of both worlds. Simple touches and attention to detaillike the iHome radio, Club Chair (that is the same one we have at home), large flat screen tv, and fridge just gives us the overall feeling of being treated with comfort.
The bathroom has a separate shower/toilet/bathtub/vanity area that was done nicely, with shutters opening to the main area of the room, a sexy, romantic, couples treat that I enjoyed. Though I’m not a fan of soft water, that’s my only negative with the resort, the water pressure was low and the soft water leaves me feeling unrinsed. Also making my coffee in the a.m. in-room required bottled water, otherwise tasting not quite the same. Some people love soft-water, it’s just what you get used to.
The lobby has many great seating areas, a two-sided fireplace that also opens to the lobby bar area, as well as outdoor seating and relaxing areas. During our stay, the conference rooms were used and there were groups of people enjoying the grounds as we walked about, I would love to take my girlfriends to this resort as well for a girl’s spa weekend.
Our relatives were staying at the lodge during this Spring Break week, so it was also them who gave rave reviews of the resort where they’d had stayed before as well. They enjoyed the spa services the hotel offers (couples massage) and they regard it highly though my husband and I did not partake this trip. We planned to dine with them at the Carneros Bistro and Wine Bar, the properties’ restaurant that first night of our stay. It was a nice treat to not have to drive anymore that first night and we felt good about enjoying some wine with dinner without having to drive again that night.
Starting with wine and the crab dip, we were treated equally well at the restaurant. The dining room was not crowded this Wednesday night, so our continued conversation did not interfere with our service and we were allowed to linger as needed to enjoy our night. I enjoyed a lovely asparagus soup that was sweet and creamy and delicious. The local mixed greens salad with roasted strawberries enticed me and was equally delicious. While offering a great selection of beef, pasta, fish, and more, each item on the menu has it’s own wine pairing suggestion. My husband enjoyed the flank steak, though cooked well done, it melted in his mouth, his plate was clear in no time. The prices are high, but the service and food demands it and it was well worth the experience!
Though complimentary breakfast, even continental is not offered, there are many great locations downtown to explore and enjoy. Our resort stay was held without a hitch and was lovely. We had an amazing time and would definitely stay there once again when in the area.
We were treated to two nights stay at the Lodge, our meals were not compensated, all opinions are my tried and true experience.
[…] The Lodge at Sonoma is also a beautiful spot to stay with in-house wine tasting offered and the yummy Carneros Bistro and Wine Bar on property. This is a romantic spot and the in-room fireplaces just make it more cozy, check it out. It’s also just down the road from Sonoma Plaza. […]