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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With its gorgeous redwood setting and pretty landscaping, The Bough House will charm you from the start. This home is what you think of when you're looking for a river escape.
Light-Filled, Architecturally Beautiful Riverfront Home, Dining Deck with Amazing River Views, Fireplace, Wall Heat, *Seasonal (July-Aug) Dock & Boats. Walk to Villa Grande Neighborhood Beach,…
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…
Beautifully Styled Contemporary Riverfront Home with Traditional Touches on a Tranquil Riverbend, Remodeled Kitchen, Hot Tub, Seasonal Dock & Boats, Outdoor Living Room; Walk to Town, Beach; Short…
Beautifully Restored 1910 Victorian Historic "Camp Como", 1.6 Riverfront Acres, Redwoods, Hot Tub, Lawn, Gardens, *Seasonal Private River Access and Boats; Short Drive to Downtown, Golf, Wine Tasting,…
Spend your days exploring Sonoma wineries, lounging on the river beach, splashing in the Pacific Ocean, dining in fine restaurants, hiking, playing golf--and at the end of the day escape to the…
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…
River View Garden Resort is comprised of nine quaint rooms nestled among majestic redwoods at the edge of the Russian River. Located in the small town of Monte Rio, the resort is a one and one-half…
Built around 1906, the Highland Dell has always been a preferred destination for Bay Area families since it first opened. The lodge is surrounded by century old redwoods making it an ideal location…
Gorgeous Vintage Craftsman Riverfront Home, Traditional and Modern Furnishing, *Seasonal (July-Aug) Dock and Boats, Hot Tub, Fenced Grassy Yard, Seasonal Firepit; Short Drive to Downtown, Beaches,…