Hotel at a Glance: Inn at Occidental

This inn celebrates its location in the heart of California wine country with a daily wine tasting. Head down to the cozy living room to sample a wine reception by the fire each afternoon. You can slip out to the veranda to enjoy the mild weather or check out the ample antiques and folk art decorating the inn.

• Sample local wine: There are more than 100 Sonoma County and Russian River wineries you can visit. The inn’s staff will be happy to map out a wine trail that suits your tastes. You will also receive complimentary wine tasting passes.
• Wine Country Breakfast in the dining room begins with custom-blended coffee, seasonal fruit, and homemade granola and pastries. But don’t fill up just yet—a hot entree of the day, such as eggs benedict or French toast, comes out soon after.
• Nap in a featherbed in your spacious, uniquely decorated room. Each is outfitted with a fireplace, bathrobes, plush Frette towels, and Pro Nature toiletries.
• Press and accolades: This bed and breakfast has been lauded by publications ranging from Via Magazine to National Geographic Traveler and Wine Spectator.

Occidental, California: Artists’ Hamlet in Wine Country

Sonoma wine country stretches around the tiny town of Occidental, which is secluded by California’s famed redwoods. Despite its small size (just 5 square miles), Occidental is a haven for creative types: you can browse the wares of local artists, craftspeople, and chefs right along Main Street. To get a different perspective on the area, head to Sonoma Canopy Tours, just outside of town. It has seven ziplines, an 80-foot rappel, and two sky bridges through the towering redwoods.

The Inn is located in the Russian River Wine Appellation and the first of many wineries are within five minutes of the Inn. The Russian River is known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay due to its cooler temperatures. Visit Joseph Phelps, Marimar, Dutton-Goldfield, Red Car, Iron Horse. Lynmar, Paul Mathews, and Merry Edwards; all within 10 minutes of the Inn.

Even if you aren’t visiting for the vineyards, the area’s gentle climate and diverse natural landscape make it worth a visit. Hiking trails wind past redwood trees as high as skyscrapers, and the craggy coastline and unspoiled beaches of the Pacific Ocean are close at hand.