Sonoma County and its bounty of riches are best appreciated from a comfortable perch. The Lodge at Sonoma offers such a perch. The Autograph Collection property is just a short walk from Sonoma’s historic plaza, and within easy distance to the wineries, tasting rooms, shops and galleries that abound in this culturally abundant region.
With its mature gardens and leafy paths, the resort balances modern touches with an earthy warmth. Those bountiful gardens are a “mood ring” for the seasons: budding red roses and wisteria-draped canopies in the spring, and trees ablaze with orange in the fall. Come winter dormancy, the property’s many fire pits provide a warm embrace. Summer of course finds guests gathered by the large swimming pool. In every season, the focal point changes.
Buildings evoke a California ranch estate, with stone facades and mission-style accents. If it leans to a theme, it’s that of its wine country origins. The lobby’s Interior design aspects are intentional and honor heritage. A large-scale custom tapestry depicts a historic representation of Sonoma Square’s Mission building. A portrait wall that hangs over the massive central fireplace features images of the area’s founders. Even the lobby-adjacent restaurant pays tribute to local history: Benecia’s Kitchen is named in honor of Francisca Benicia Carrillo de Vallejo, a prominent figure in Sonoma’s history and the wife of General Mariano Vallejo.
While The Lodge is no doubt a great home base for local exploration, it does a great job of bringing the local in. Every evening, complimentary wine tasting features a nearby winery and its varietals. A lobby-located gallery features local artists. The on-site spa features locally grown lavender within its many treatments. Guests are provided access to classes at next door Sonoma Yoga. And though the region teems with notable restaurants, one of the most notable is just steps from the entrance.
Michael Mina’s on-property Wit & Wisdom finds both guests and locals enjoying the open hearth kitchen, the convivial bar, and a lovely, twinkle-lit terrace that flows from the inviting dining room. Inspired by Bay Area-based Jack London’s collection of personal writings and essays of the same name, Wit & Wisdom draws upon the bounty of the region to showcase products from local Sonoma and Napa Valley farms, purveyors and wineries. Culinary and beverage menus deliver Mina’s signature flair, featuring now iconic dishes such as his Lobster Pot Pie with brandied lobster cream, market vegetables and black truffles), Liberty Farms Duck Wings, and a fresh shellfish program including Pacific Oysters, Red King Crab, Spice-Poached White Shrimp and Diver Scallops.
Back at The Lodge, you’ll find accommodations spread out across the property and surrounding the central swimming pool. Options run the gamut from traditional and cozy guest rooms to standalone cottage suites. Interiors pair natural materials with clean lines—think reclaimed wood, polished concrete, soft lighting. If you’re traveling with friends or family—or just want room to breathe—the Cottage Premier One Bedroom Suite is the one to book. With vaulted ceilings, a separate living room with fireplace, and a large furnished patio, it feels more house than hotel. The private patio is the ideal space in which to relax with a bottle of wine. Then there’s the soaking tub, located within its own private alcove and warmed by an adjacent outdoor fireplace. It’s a dreamy spot from which to watch the night sky, flute of bubbly in hand.
In the morning, you don’t need to go far for breakfast. Benicia’s Kitchen serves an all-day menu of casual staples, best enjoyed on the shaded porch. It’s relaxed, friendly, and ideal for fueling up before a day of tastings or a bike ride through town. (Every guest room and suite comes with complimentary cruisers.)
What makes The Lodge stand out in a region packed with charming stays is its ability to function as both base camp and destination. You can explore all day—visit biodynamic wineries in Glen Ellen, picnic under redwoods in Armstrong Woods, or browse the food artisans at Sonoma’s farmers’ market—and return to a setting that feels like its own destination. It’s close to the action without being in the thick of it.
Whether you’re plotting out a week of tastings or just need a place to slow down between meals and meanderings, The Lodge makes it easy to settle in. It’s refined without being precious, designed with intention but not overly curated. More than anything, it gives you room—to relax, to reconnect, to enjoy Sonoma at your own pace.
Photos courtesy of The Lodge at Sonoma