Along the banks of Sonoma County's Russian River, the hamlet of Monte Rio (pop. 1,152) knows how to roll out the welcome mat with flair. Tourists flocked by train starting in the 1870s, then came by the thousands in the 1930s and ’40s to hear Big Bands play in the town's outdoor pavilions. Today, a historic 1950s-style neon sign arches overhead, proclaiming "Welcome to Monte Rio Vacation Wonderland."Â
That slogan still rings true for those who want to enjoy splashing or paddling on the river, taking in fabulous views, visiting nearby world-class wineries, enjoying local theater, biking along winding roads lined with redwoods, fishing, hiking, or having picnics on a sandy river beach.Â
Located on the north end of the 10-mile scenic stretch known as the Bohemian Highway, this little burg spreads out on both sides of the river. It's home to the Monte Rio Amphitheater, an outdoor showcase for concerts, theater under the stars, and other events.
The area offers a variety of restaurants, while lodging options vary from quaint cottages on the river to luxury bed and breakfast inns, and historic small hotels.
The Village Inn & Restaurant, built in 1906 as a private home, served as the site of several scenes in the Hollywood film Holiday Inn, starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire. The Highland Dell Hotel, also built in 1906, hosts the local OktoberFest.Â
Trip Ideas
Perched on the banks of Sonoma County's Russian River, on the north end of a scenic 10-mile stretch known as the Bohemian Highway, the hamlet of Monte Rio rolls out the welcome mat with flair - the...
For more than 130 years, travelers have come to the Russian River area in Sonoma County to swim, paddle, hike, wine, dine, or simply relax and enjoy all the delights of this lovely waterway. As the...
Dip your toes both literally and figuratively in Wine Country on this one-day adventure from San Francisco to the Russian River Valley, with its towering redwoods, cool river water, and laid-back...
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Ananda is a magical little cottage nestled in the hills above the Russian River. The name Ananda means bliss, and that's what you'll find at this private, serene hideaway. With a spacious living room,…
Nestled under towering coastal redwood trees, the Village Inn & Restaurant is a historic hotel located on the Russian River. You will find colorful gardens with open terraces to admire the river and…
The Monte Rio Amphitheater is the Lower River's showcase for outdoor events. The stage area is surrounded by tall redwoods creating the perfect natural theater under the stars. Sloped lawn seating is…
Recently ranked by Golf World Magazine as the #3 Nine-hole course in America!Built in 1928 by famed golf architect Alister MacKenzie, noted for his work at Augusta National and Cypress Point, and in…
On the Russian River with spectacular views of the River and majestic redwoods, The Village Inn & Restaurant is the perfect spot for accommodations, drinks and dinner. Established in 1906, the…
Inn on the Russian River features relaxing, sun kissed grounds overlooking the Russian River. All rooms are thoughtfully decorated and boast flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom.…
Welcome to The Grove, a world of privacy, with redwood-covered ridgetops above and redwood forests below. Perched on a hill above the Russian River, The Grove is an amenity-loaded haven for your…
Riverwood Cottage is a cozy, riverfront cottage on the banks of the Russian River in Monte Rio, California. Sit in the hot tub, surrounded by tall redwood trees, looking out over the lawn, summer…
Monte Rio Beach is the largest public beach on the lower Russian River and is ADA accessible. East of the Monte Rio Bridge and known locally as Big Rocky Beach, this is the location of the…