The Farmhouse Inn, Russian River Valley
Posted on Sep 12, 2009 under Archives | No Comment
The Farmhouse Inn
On a recent story assignment for Pasadena magazine, I had the good fortune of covering the Russian River Valley in Sonoma and stayed at the beautiful Farmhouse Inn. Located just 10 minutes from the very small Santa Rosa airport (a much better alternative than flying into San Fran or Oakland, as a drive to this area from there is at least an hour and a half, non-stop flights go out twice daily to Santa Rosa from LAX), the inn is surrounded by a forest in the heart of the Russian River Valley and offers luxury accommodations in a country setting overlooking the vineyards of Sonoma. The pale yellow renovated farmhouse, adjacent cottages and barn feature eighteen rooms with down comforters, wood-burning fireplaces, heated marble bathroom floors and large private patios. I was in one of the newly renovated barn rooms – definitely a great place for a romantic and peaceful getaway.
My room at Farmhouse Inn
I loved the double sided fireplace and large private patio looking out into the trees, as well as the very modern bathroom with a big steam shower and large jetted soaking tub, I also loved the heated bathroom floors.
View from room, patio
View from bathroom, looking out into patio
In addition to lovely rooms, the Inn houses a pool, small spa and Michelin starred restaurant (review and pics of dinner in next post). Breakfast is definitely worth sampling and is served to all Inn guests. I sat in the patio area and sampled two breakfasts, below are pics.
Farmhouse Inn patio
Breakfast started with seasonal fruit
Breakfast quiche, delicious!
Day two’s breakfast was also delicious – yogurt and fresh fruit and eggs benedict.
yogurt and fruit
muffin
Eggs benedict
Originally built in 1870, siblings Catherine and Joe Bartolomei inherited the Farmhouse from thier great-grandfather Domenic Giovanetti. Joe is nice enough to provide tips for all the guests on wineries to visit and things to do in the area and recommended some great choices of things to do and see while in the Russian River Valley. He took me on a tour of the neighboring vineyards and farm that he and his sister own. Much of the food that is served at the restaurant comes from the farm.
Owner Joe Bartolomei at his farm
Loads of seasonal fruit and vegetables were in the farm, including tomatoes, squash, corn, lettuces and a few pumpkins were also popping up.
summer corn
A few pumpkins were popping up
Joe’s sister Catherine lives in her great-grandfather’s house on the farm, which also includes the families vineyards and lots of apple and pear trees.
The Farmhouse Inn was one of the most beautiful, private and comfortable places that I have stayed in and is a perfect retreat to get away from the hustle of the city. Located at 7871 River Road in Forestville, reservations can be made through the website – www.farmhouseinn.com or by calling 707/887-3300.