10 Getaway Resorts and Lodges in the Russian River Area

Follow the winding roads along Sonoma County's backroads to discover 10 of the best getaway resorts and lodges in the laid-back Russian River area, amidst a delightful backdrop of cool water, towering trees, and dappled sunlight. Whether you want historic charm, modern luxury, or a combination of both, you can find it in this magical region's wide variety of lodgings, from Craftsman cabins to farmhouse-style lodges. 

Here's a quick list (in alphabetical order) of 10 intriguing and distinctive Russian River getaways:

Boon Hotel + Spa

Set beside a grove of redwoods, this eco-friendly resort offers understated design and affordable luxury in 14 old miners' cabins , plus a vintage "lovebug" camper and three 'glamping' (glamorous camping) tents. The camper and tents have all the luxuries of the regular rooms, including platform beds and organic linens. Relax and enjoy snacks poolside at the saline pool and hot tub, or enjoy a massage in the onsite spa.

Casa Secoya

This relaxed and restyled retro lodge is set on three acres of an open and sunny glade, surrounded by redwoods. In addition to a pool and picnic area, the property has several room styles and two different types of cabins,  all of which are pet-friendly and offer forest views. 

Just across the street is the Northwood Golf Course (where guests can schedule tee-times) and the course's onsite Northwood Restaurant, as well as local favorite Bia Cafe, which makes delicious breakfast pastries and sandwiches.  

Dawn Ranch Resort

On the banks of the Russian River, this century-old guest ranch sprawls along 15 acres, its rustic cabins and cottages blending harmoniously with a landscape of apple orchards, bamboo groves, grassy meadows, and a kitchen garden. The dog-friendly property includes two mature, rare Dawn Redwood trees (hence the lodge's current name), and offers private river access, a pool, and free Wi-Fi. 

Farmhouse Inn

Enjoy sophisticated comfort and classic elegance on six acres of gardens in this boutique farmhouse hotel, which offers 25 gorgeous guest rooms, a Michelin-starred restaurant featuring farm-fresh food, and a seasonally inspired, full-service spa. Relax by the heated pool or pamper yourself with a massage or "body melt," which employs a warm pillow of muscle-healing herbs, alfalfa hay, lavender, and chamomile.

Fern Grove Cottages

Dating back to the 1920s, these craftsman-style cottages and lodge are nestled among towering redwood trees and beautiful vintage gardens. Ranging from studios to two-bedroom units, each of the 20 cabins has an individual theme. Many have a wood burning fireplace or a gas log stove, and some include a kitchen, a wet bar, or a double-size spa tub.

A delicious extended continental breakfast with a seasonal menu is served at Fern Grove each morning. Swim in the heated saline water pool, or go for a ride on one of the resort's loaner bicycles.

Highlands Resort

Welcoming the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) community for more than 30 years, this charming resort offers individual cabins on three acres on a hillside covered with redwood trees—yet it's also only three blocks from Guerneville's shopping and restaurants.

The romantic cabins include gas fireplaces, comfortable beds, kitchenettes, and two-person soaking tubs, but the resort also offers tent camping in the summer. Enjoy the complimentary continental breakfast each morning, and then relax at the clothing optional pool. Dogs are welcome.

Inn on the Russian River

On a quiet bend in the Russian River, this quaint resort backs up to a private, sunny river beach rimmed by majestic redwoods. Eleven thoughtfully furnished rooms invite you to thoroughly relax, and the meticulously manicured grounds glow with colorful flowers and herbal aromas. A daily continental breakfast features coffee cakes, breads, muffins, fresh fruit, juice, and freshly brewed coffee.

Mine + Farm, the Inn at Guerneville

Surrounded by towering redwoods near Russian River waters yet only minutes from downtown Guerneville, this restored 1906 farmhouse has been charmingly curated with modern design.  With 2 1/2-acres of outdoor spaces to explore, the inn welcomes both you and you four-legged guests.  Included in your stay is a locally-driven, full organic breakfast complete with house-made juices.  

Village Inn & Restaurant

Built in 1906 as a private summer vacation home, this inn now features 10 unique guest rooms with private baths, as well as balconies that offer views of either the Russian River or peaceful gardens. The main building holds the inn's restaurant and bar and four guest rooms, while the lodge building includes six private-entrance guest rooms.

The restaurant features locally sourced wine country cuisine, a Sonoma County wine list, and a full bar serving hand-crafted cocktails. In the restaurant, walls of windows and an expansive deck overlook the forest, and white tablecloths dress the tables, creating an elegant yet still casual dining experience.

For an overview of the area, read our Guide to the Russian River Resort Area. For even more ideas about where to stay, check our listings of Sonoma County Hotels and Lodging.

See Sonoma County's safety tips for water activities here.

Written by Sonoma Insider Patricia Lynn Henley.