My first visit a few years ago to Kenwood Inn & Spa left me charmed. This second visit left me enchanted. The lush gardens and lived-in Tuscan vibe of this Sonoma County boutique gem remain the same, but rooms and common spaces are refreshed and renewed. The reimagining has unveiled a new level of luxe that casts the inn as the reigning star amongst parent company Four Sisters Inn’s 17 distinctive properties throughout California. Each of the 17 exudes a unique sense of place. Kenwood Inn & Spa’s sense of place is “wine country warmth.”
Located on 2.5 peaceful acres amongst and within NorCal wine country wineries and vineyards, Kenwood Inn embraces its locale with a nightly wine hour. Guests are invited to gather from 5 to 6pm in the Inn’s designated wine room to sample offerings from local vintners. The labels change nightly. It’s a wonderful and convivial way to experience some of the best varietals the region offers. Grab a seat inside, or outside in the courtyard by one of two fireplaces, or simply stake out a space at the stand-up bar and taste (and nibble) to your heart’s content.
At check-in, the welcoming gesture of a glass of sparkling also helps to set the wine country scene, as does a late evening complimentary glass of port or sherry. And helpful staff can help make tasting reservations at any number of nearby wineries; Kenwood’s standing as a regional hospitality gem has its advantages.
The Inn is an ideal spot at which to rest and relax after a day of exploration. Book a spa appointment, and enjoy rejuvenating and relaxing therapies executed by expert practitioners. My 50 minute massage was one of the best in recent memory, performed by a seasoned masseuse who intuited my shoulder and arm stress, the result of too much computer time. The resulting body work proved therapeutic and healing. An evening dip in the inn’s large warming pool further eased any stress. As did a later soak in my room’s deep set, jetted tub, where I enjoyed a small pour of the evening port while listening to bossa nova and French jazz tunes, piped-in via the room’s Tivoli Bluetooth audio player. This music genre, so perfect for the Inn’s European vibe (and also played within the Inn’s common spaces), set just the right tone: soothing and sultry.
The Inn’s 29 reimagined guest rooms in varying layouts transport to a world of tranquility. Soft, supple textiles in natural hues are accentuated by subtle pops of emerald green that harmonize with the dark rich wood of custom-made furnishings. Thoughtful amenities include a silent mini-fridge, an Illy espresso machine, two spa robes, L’Occitane bath products, and integrated USB ports. I also loved my in-room fireplace which provided glowing warmth on a cold and rainy evening, proving that Kenwood Inn is ideal in any season.
Yet, I can only imagine the summer vibe. A central pool is surrounded by chaises lounge, furnished cabanas, and citrus trees, and looks like an ideal spot to while away a sunny afternoon. The warming pool features double chaise canopy daybeds. And lush gardens, with trickling fountains, shield al fresco sitting areas.
In the morning, enjoy a complimentary buffet breakfast. Pastries, house made granola, fresh fruit, a hot dish, and more are offered. Take your selections back to your room, dine in the communal breakfast area, or select a garden table within the central courtyard where an ornamental fountain takes center stage.
At check-out, don’t forget to grab one of the Inn’s legendary, house made chocolate chip cookies, a delicious amenity I was glad to see remain after the remodel.
Kenwood Inn & Spa, 10400 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, CA
Photos courtesy of Kenwood Inn & Spa