Set within a verdant 258 acre landscape of vineyards and majestic oak trees, Montage Healdsburg has the qualities of a remote sanctuary. The vibe is aided by the private, slightly uphill drive into the property, and by the resort’s architecture, where every building and treehouse bungalow are designed to blend naturally into the surroundings. Seemingly a world away from the wine country activity just outside its perimeter, the resort offers solitude and retreat, yet it is actually at the epicenter of Sonoma County’s wine, cuisine, and recreation bounty, making it an ideal home base for exploration. But, with all that for which the region is best known right on property, guests soon find that they need not wander in order to experience the area’s riches.
Wine is naturally a focus for any resort in this part of Northern California. Most hotel concierges have their favorite spots at which to book guests. Montage Healdsburg takes its winery connections to a different level, partnering with renowned winemaker Jesse Katz to offer elevated tour and tasting experiences at his nearby Aperture Cellars. Katz’s vinous artistry is ever present within Montage Healdsburg where he oversees the resort’s 15.5 acres of Bordeaux varietal vines, the grapes of which will one day be made into a bespoke label. For now, the burgeoning vines beckon guests to explore the different varietals, each easily identified with signage.
Seemingly a world away from the wine country activity just outside its perimeter, the resort offers solitude and retreat, yet it is actually at the epicenter of Sonoma County’s wine, cuisine, and recreation bounty, making it an ideal home base for exploration.
Additional local wines are featured on the menus at Scout Field Bar in the lobby, and at the resort’s signature restaurant Hazel Hill where Chef de Cuisine Jason Pringle creates exceptional, seasonal dishes made with the most locally sourced ingredients. (Instagrammers will love the colorful and beautifully plated Wild King Salmon, which incidentally pairs perfectly with a Senses Wines Sonoma Coast Chardonnay.) Dine inside the elegant dining room, or al fresco under twinkle-lit trees, with a view of Mount St. Helena in the distance. Poolside Hudson Springs Bar & Grill offers a more casual dining option, as does Healdsburg Country Store, a gourmet grab-and-go market that also features Sonoma County artisan gifts.
Guest rooms are spread throughout the property, appearing as treehouses tucked discretely within the oaks. Choose mountain, vineyard, or forest views, and depending on orientation, enjoy the sunrise or sunset on large balconies, most of which feature click-of-a-switch firepits and lanterns. Bathrooms here are sublime, featuring large soaking tubs and both indoor and outdoor showers. The Spa Montage too is sublime. This adult pool-adjacent sanctuary offers any number of rejuvenating treatments. Feel free to wander there in your Montage robe, and relax pre or post treatment at the outdoor firepit.
Lest the atmosphere sound a bit romantic, Montage Healdsburg is also ideal for families. The large yet contained property is perfect for youthful exploration. A separate family pool welcomes exuberant energy, and the resort’s Paintbox program for ages 5 to 12 keeps the kids entertained while parents pursue other interests. Onsite Compass Sports offers pickleball and bocce ball equipment, archery lessons, and bike and e-bike rentals. There is no better way to experience the vinous riches of nearby Dry Creek Valley than via e-bike. Compass Sports provides a detailed map with suggested stops along the way; this al fresco transport experience is a revelation – even for regulars who know the region well.
For those seeking exportation further afield, Montage Healdsburg partners with Adventure IO, a leading curator of unique day trips and activities hosted by local experts. Embark on a helicopter tour of the Sonoma County countryside; go behind the scenes at the Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center, or explore the world of bees with local apiarist Candice Koseba. Of course, no one is faulted for simply staying put, because Montage Healdsburg features the best of the region, all in one place.