Planning a getaway to Monterey or San Francisco? Think Sonoma Coast and the Russian River region for a serendipitous adventure into relaxation, beauty and great food and wine just a few hours and a gas tank away.
The Russian River Region includes the Russian River Valley, the Sonoma Coast and the surrounding wine country. An hour and 15 minute drive time from the Golden Gate Bridge leads to a quiet place to unwind and relax. The villages are inviting and they seem to “dare” you not to relax. Healdsburg is a perfect example of a small crossroads community that has that quality.
Named for a Quaker
Healdsburg was named after Harmon Heald, one of eight Quaker children who came with his family in 1849 from Jackson County, Mo. They were in search of gold but, as the fates would have it, Harmon instead founded what is now known as Healdsburg. This place was once the best kept secret in the area, but travelers looking for somewhere to relax and enjoy good wine and food have let the cat out of the bag. Healdsburg is attracting the vacationer while still maintaining its laid back atmosphere.
Everything Within Walking Distance
One of the most amazing things about Healdsburg, with a population just more than 11,000, is the restaurants. From Italian, Thai, Chinese to American, most are so good you need reservations some evenings. Shopping, bakeries, a pub, wineries, tasting rooms and spas are within walking distance from the delightful hotels and inns near the Historic Plaza.
Sample the area
Start out by booking a delightful room at the Healdsburg Inn on the Plaza (112 Matheson St.). The Inn overlooks the Historic Plaza where everything in town happens. Step out the door and you are in the midst of the festivities. You can avoid any activities by just going around the corner, hopping in your car and heading off to any adventure you choose. For details, call (800) 431-8663.
Round out your trip with a visit to The Spa at the Hotel Healdsburg (327 Healdsburg Ave.). A full service spa offers complete and conscious care in tranquil surroundings. Well-trained therapists and aestheticians are selected for their credentials and experience. Go be pampered and enjoy. For details, call (707) 433-4747.
Eateries to test your gourmet tastes
Great food abounds. Sake’O (505 Healdsburg Ave.) is the ultimate in Japanese food. A comfortable spot offers the best sushi and sashimi on the planet; the martini prawns are what trying to steal a recipe is all about. The Spanish fly is seared ahi tuna topped with avocado, tomato and red onion in olive oil and soy with jalapeno on top. One wonders how they can get all of this on one little piece of ahi, but they do and the combination is wonderful. For details, call (707) 433-2669.
Wear a T-shirt and shorts and go to the Bear Republic Brewing Company (345 Healdsburg Ave.). You are greeted by a happy, amiable staff and food keeps coming. Steaks, burgers, salads and – of course – beer abound. Food is down to earth good and is brought hot and as ordered at a fair price. For details, call (707) 433-2337.
Top the evening off at Costeaux’s French Bakery (417 Healdsburg Ave.). This bakery goes back to 1923 when it was called the French American Bakery and after being sold, it was expanded and renovated, and always produces top quality breads and pastries. For details, call (707) 433-1931 or visit www.costeaux.com.
Substitute for Prozac
To say this area is idyllic and completely relaxing is an absolute understatement. Here is a place to unwind, forget the pressures and just let go. Doctors should prescribe this area as a substitute for Prozac. After a few days, Healdsburg offers a complete rejuvenation of the body and soul. It’s not so much what you do, it’s the quiet magic of this place that makes the difference.
Camille Bounds is the Travel Editor for the Western Division of Sunrise Publications and The Inland Empire Business Journal.
