Experiencing Serenity: My Visit to the Mine & Farm, The Inn at Guerneville, CA
Since entering a more conscious, eco-friendly, sustainable lifestyle, I’ve been very mindful about the places I choose to spend my time in. As a full time travel content creator, blogger, and founder of a travel and hospitality marketing agency, I have the privilege of being able to integrate my lifestyle into my work. I’ve been fortunate to work with properties and brands that align with my values such as Alila Ventana Big Sur, Sezáne, and The Simple Grape. It was on the first day of 2023 that I decided to jump into this lifestyle and commit to it. To celebrate this beautiful way of life and ring in the new year (another year of living this conscious lifestyle), I was on the hunt for a bed and breakfast that not only was aesthetically pleasing, but also aligned with my values. I’m so happy I came across Mine & Farm, the Inn.
This bed and breakfast in Guerneville was the perfect escape from the city, and something that I’ll return to for years and years to come. Allow me to introduce you to one of the best hotels in Guerneville, California.
Where is Guerneville?
Guerneville is an unincorporated community located within Sonoma County’s borders. It’s situated right along the Russian River and has been known to be a popular destination for families and camping. Where the forest meets the vineyard, this mighty little community has an abundance of things to do, so much beauty to explore, and so much experience to offer. I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to explore Guerneville, but it’s really the place to be.
What’s the history of Guerneville?
Though it’s now known for its fabulous outdoor activities and liberal atmosphere, Guerneville wasn’t always a recreational hub. Its history is rooted in the logging industry. You can think of it kind of like those old Western Gold Rush towns, except instead of gold, it was all about the lumber. The town grew considerably from 1870 to 1910, during the height of the logging boom, which consequently led to its nickname ‘Stumptown’.
The Guerne family, who settled there in the 1850s, were significant contributors to its growth. Over time though, the townsfolk realized that they might run out of trees to log, which pushed them to diversify how the town made its money.
Today, due to its location and the strategic changes the town made, Guerneville has become a beloved spot for family vacations, camping, and wine-tasting excursions. Its rich history and the lessons learned are what essentially shaped the sustainable community we see today. You can read more about Guerneville in the library of Mine & Farm to learn more! It’s so fascinating learning about how its developed over the years.
Where to Stay in Guerneville: Mine & Farm
Nestled in the heart of the Russian River Valley in Guerneville, California – the enchanting Mine & Farm Inn. The goal of my visit was to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and embrace tranquility, a mission that was more than accomplished here.
A Peek Into The Occidental Room at the Best Hotel in Guerneville
I had the honor of staying in the Occidental Room, a stylish haven of comfort that immediately made me feel at home. I loved the tasteful decor, every detail carefully considered and placed. The room offered all necessary amenities, creating an environment that seamlessly blended style with comfort.
The bed was super duper comfortable and I had a wonderful night’s rest every night.
The Grounds and Environment
Walking around Mine & Farm was like stepping into a serene painting. I spent most of my time inside of the clubhouse, where breakfast was held for all guests. There are rooms inside of the clubhouse that you can book, which gives you easy access to the dining room, library, and boutique. If there’s one place I want to spend 99% of my time in, it’s here. I loved sitting next to the library, picking up dozens of books and trying to read them as quickly as possible in one sitting. I learned a lot about Sonoma County and Guerneville on one of the mornings. I learned a lot about birds the next morning. The view made it all better. The amount of greenery was so tranquilizing and made me feel so safe. It puts a smile to my face knowing that there is such a place that can bring me an abundance of peace.
The outdoor area is just as fun as the clubhouse, featuring a hot tub, a fire pit, and multiple seating areas. They have blankets ready for you to take in case you get cold, and there’s a water fountain that you can hear at all times. The inn actually grows their own weed and create pre-rolls for the guests. You’re welcome to take one or two to try! I tried two different strains during my stay, the Menaje was my favorite. It made me very mellow and giggly.
The Best Bed & Breakfast in Guerneville
Breakfast at Mine & Farm Inn was the highlight of my stay. On our first morning, we were served a bowl of yogurt with berries and a breakfast burrito with orangevjuice. On our second morning, we were served a yummy bacon and egg brioche sandwich with a smoothie. Mine & Farm’s breakfast featured freshly picked ingredients, many from their own garden, promoting a sustainable lifestyle which gave the food an extra layer of delectability.
Sustainable Practices & Giving Back
As I said earlier, I wanted to be mindful about where I wanted to stay for New Year’s. I wanted a hotel that aligned with my values. When I saw the inn’s involvement with Kind Traveler’s ‘Every Stay Gives Back’ program and the support they give to Charlie’s Acres in Sonoma, California, it immediately was a hell yes I’m booking now moment. It was truly heartening to see a business be so proactive in its charity work, provide fresh farm to table food, and be so wonderfully designed at every single corner of the property.
Activities and Attractions
The Inn’s prime location enabled me to explore the nearby towns of Guerneville, Bodega Bay, Forestville, and Sebastopol easily, adding to my unforgettable Sonoma County experience.
Here are some highlights from the trip:
Date Night Spot in Guerneville: The Lodge at Dawn Ranch
For our first night, we went out for an intimate date night at The Lodge. Located inside the Dawn Ranch property, this restaurant boasted a sophisticated and refined menu. For just my boyfriend and I, they had us sit in one of the biggest tables in the restaurant, right across the fireplace. It felt like it was just me and my boyfriend. I loved it.
The food was absolutely delicious and I would absolutely come back again.
Where to Get a Quick Bite in Forestville: Sonoma Pizza Company
When staying at Mine & Farm Inn, you get discounts to a lot of local businesses. Sonoma Pizza Company was one of them. Their pizzas are so delicious, perhaps one of the best pizzas I’ve ever had, and that says a lot! The interior design of their restaurant was to die for.
The pizza at Sonoma Pizza Company also made for a delicious late night snack! We loved eating it in the hotel room while watching a movie. It reaaaalllyyy hit the spot.
A Quick Drive to Bodega Bay
Bodega Bay has been on my list for years. When I was a freshman in high school, my English teacher, Mr. Meeks, showed us The Birds by Alfred Hitchcock. Ever since that moment, I just knew that I had to visit Bodega Bay and I would become a forever Alfred Hitchcock fan. It was incredible to finally see it in person. The views were absolutely remarkable, it put tears in my eyes.
Pro tip – Always carry a pair of binoculars in your car! I always always always travel with binoculars. I can’t live without them. They came in handy when I was admiring the views of the Pacific Coast.
Visiting Sebastapol
I have been itching to visit Sebastapol for months! Now was finally the time, and it did not disappoint. This small town was calling out my name and now I could see why. An afternoon at Sebastapol seriously wasn’t enough. I’d love to go back for a weekend getaway at some point this year. It’s a delightful little town filled with the cutest stores, yummiest restaurants, and more.
The Hosts and Service at Mine & Farm Inn
Words can hardly capture the hospitality I received from Bryce and Suzanne, the delightful owners of the inn. They treated every guest with utmost attention and personalized service, lending a sense of familiarity and warmth to the entire stay. I love meeting people who have so much to say and you can learn so much from in one conversation. Bryce is one of those people. He’s just such a genuine person, passionate about his bed and breakfast, and the impact he’s bringing to Guerneville and beyond.
Ready to Book a Stay in Mine & Farm?
My stay at Mine & Farm Inn proved to be an unforgettable experience filled with comfort, discovery, and a strong sense of community that touched my heart. Mine & Farm, I will definitely be back for more!
