He Gaige House Inn in Sonoma, California

This area of California is one of my favorite areas to visit and this inn is truly fabulous. Set on three acres of meticulously landscaped gardens, you'll find this a Italienate style inn a serene oasis among the bustling nearby wineries. Superbly located for a few days visit to the wineries in the area, you'll find their hospitality and service impeccable. Their honeymoon accommodations are also a very popular choice for newlyweds looking for a romantic country wedding and/or honeymoon. There are many venues in the region where a destination wedding can be held..

Perhaps Frommer's has said it best, "When we visited this gorgeous inn, we were not merely impressed-we didn't want to leave. This is the finest B&B in the wine country."

Amenities include a swimming pool which is heated from March through November, a whirlpool spa, and spa treatmens which are available in-room, in three outdoor locations and in the spa itself. These spa treatments include waxing, scrubs, wraps, facials and massages. There is also a "I Love Chocolate" treatment, served with chocolate soufflé. All guestrooms are air-conditioned and have televisions and CD players. Wireless internet access is available throughout the property.

Concierge services are available you're sure to enjoy the complimentary wine hour every afternoon. The breakfasts are delicious (extra fee applies) and you'll find coffee, hot tea, and cold drinks available 24 hours a day along with cookies.

The inn is on two levels and you can select a Queen or a King room on the upper level with a view or choose a garden level room with a private entrance. They also now have Spa Suites, designed by an international team using Asian design features. Each suite has a large granite soaking tub, a private spa garden, floor to ceiling sliding glass walls and contemporary decor.

Smoking is not allowed anywhere on the Gaige House Inn property and pets are not allowed. This inn is not suitable set up for the enjoyment of young children.

Please visit gaige.com for more details. And, ask about reserving your spa treatments when you reserve your room - they might not be available if you want until you arrive at the inn.

Once you leave the inn property, you'll have a large selection of activities to choose from - visiting neighboring wineries, of course. You might enjoy visiting the Benziger Family Winery on London Ranch Road; their tasting room is open seven days a week but please call to verify the days and times. (benziger.com) Then, the B.R. Cohn Winery with 90+ acres of vineyard, also makes olive oil and you might want to stop in and see them also. (brchon.com) Stop by and pick up a selection of prepared items at the Glen Ellen Market on Arthur Road. You can then stop in a park or another picturesque spot to enjoy a picnic.

But there is also biking, walking/hiking, shopping, and perhaps a hot balloon ride also. The Plaza in Sonoma is fun to visit - watch the cheese making at Sonoma Jack's and enjoy some free samples...the Creamery (I think that's what's it's called) has great ice cream in a real old-fashioned setting. If you're a scrapbooker, look for the retail store of Evelyn Grossman - cute things! The mission in Sonoma is very interesting so don't miss it. And, I always enjoy walking through the grounds at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Valley Inn. And, if you're there at Christmas time, be sure and check out their beautifully decorated tree and other decorations.