The Farmhouse Inn & Restaurant
February 17, 2011 Tucked along the main route in Forestville, the Farmhouse Inn & Restaurant is just perfect for a romantic weekend getaway. It's only 75 minutes away from San Francisco and it's also a very short distance from Healdsburg and many wineries in the Sonoma region.
Siblings Catherine and Joe Bartolomei have been running the inn for a decade, and their family ranch has been in the Russian River Valley for five generations. You can really feel their love of the land and it shows in their warm hospitality.
The staff attends to every detail so you can feel at home. For example, the guest services area has the famous Bath Bar that's packed with locally made bath scrubs, salts and olive oil bar soaps. You have to try the fragrant buttermilk bath - it's too scrumptious for words. Tailored for the sweet tooth, they also offer gourmet accoutrements to make s’mores around the fire pit.
There are only 18 rooms, cottages and suites within the 6-acre property. The highlight is the newly renovated barn house. This used to be a real working barn and now it houses 8 gorgeous deluxe king suites. Each one features a separate steam shower, jetted tub, private deck, indoor-outdoor fireplace, and heated Italian Carrera marble floors in the bathroom.
The fun doesn't stop there. Farmhouse guests get to dine in style at their one-star Michelin restaurant. Chef Steve Litke's hyperlocal menu highlights the bounty of artisan producers from Sonoma County. We loved the the silky Seared Sonoma Foie Gras and the perfectly juicy Pan Roasted Filet of Natural Beef. I was tempted to try the signature Rabbit Rabbit Rabbit dish. As if you couldn't guess, it's rabbit prepared three ways (bacon wrapped loin, confit of leg, roasted rack). We topped it all off with Meyer Lemon-Brown Butter Crepes.
Definitely take advantage of the tranquil spa when you visit. Originally the carriage house, this four-room spa haven features a large, airy relaxation lounge. I can see this being the ideal location for bridal spa parties. I tried the custom facial, which featured organic Ilike skin care from Hungary. For the ultimate romantic treat you can also get a couple's massage and bubble bath if you're staying at one of the deluxe barn suites.
Should you ever need a furry companion, the inn's resident cat Charlotte will totally cozy up with you. This adorably curious and super friendly rescue cat literally followed us everywhere we went, and she even snuck into our room to watch some TV. Too, too cute. She practically stole my heart and I really wanted to take her home with me. She's just one more reason for me to go back.
There is a huge promotion going on for the Farmhouse's tenth anniversary. Book at least two midweek nights (Sun-Thurs) and you'll get the second night for just $10. Or, you can book two weekend nights and get 10% off your stay. The rate comes with a complimentary gourmet two-course breakfast. I can't imagine a better deal than that. This offer ends on March 31.
For reservations call 800.464.6642 or visit www.farmhouseinn.com.
For editorial consideration, a press visit was arranged for this post.
Reader Comments (3)
Oooh, I've always wanted to go there. Talk about pampering!
You totally should, it's a gorgeous space. Very tranquil.
This look amazing. Next time in in SF.....