Historical Victorian Inn in California Wine Country

Nestled amid a premier grape-growing region in the Alexander Valley, Auberge on the Vineyard is a seven-room, Victorian Queen Anne–style inn with gingerbread trim and wraparound verandas. Featured on the Today Show. the bed and breakfast dates back to 1910, with an interior to match the era—you’ll find a cast-iron wood stove, clawfoot tubs, and antique chaises inside. French accents are also sprinkled throughout, including handpicked French furniture in certain guest rooms.

The Margaux, Lorraine, and Hermitage rooms reside within the main inn; two of the rooms are equipped with large bay windows, and all feature Victorian touches, such as patterned wallpaper or floral bedspreads. The adjacent Carriage House comprises the Sancerre, Echezeaux, and Vouvray rooms, all renovated in 2010 to include more modern touches. Step out onto the Carriage House’s western-facing balcony and you can survey more than 100 acres of Alexander Valley vineyards or watch the sun set over the mountains.

Each morning, the inn’s owner, Roxanne, prepares a three-course breakfast that includes fresh fruit, meats, and a hot entrée, such as quiche lorraine or pain perdu, a traditional French version of french toast. Winery passes grant access to a variety of wineries throughout Sonoma and Mendocino counties including Dry Creek, Russian River and Alexander Valleys. The pass waives tasting fees and offers up to 20% off at a number of wineries.

Cloverdale, California: Up-and-Coming Wine Country Outpost in Alexander Valley

Named one of the Coolest Small Towns in America by Budget Travel in 2010, Cloverdale is a small community about 80 miles north of San Francisco, adjacent to California’s Highway 101. It’s a small town, indeed, with a population of roughly 8,500. Cloverdale’s vibrant downtown is home to art galleries and local eateries, but it’s known chiefly for its prime location amid mountains and renowned wineries.

The Alexander and Dry Creek Valleys are two of the most prestigious wine appellations in California, with several world-class wineries offering tours and tastings. Your stay at Auberge on the Vineyard features a winery pass so you can sample some of the vino.

When the weather’s nice, head to Lake Sonoma, about 25 miles away, for outdoor recreation. The area is popular with boaters, fishers, and hawks, which can occasionally be seen swooping from the sky to pluck smallmouth bass and bluegill from the water.