What hotel, inn or bb is most representative of the lodging in sonoma/napa. And, what do you believe are the elements that make it so?

What???

What price range?

"Most representative?" I really don't undertand the question.

But, here's where I would stay (if someone else were paying) -
http://www.aubergedusoleil.com/

I like Candlelight Inn and Old World Inn

http://www.candlelightinn.com/

http://www.oldworldinn.com/

In Sonoma I like McArthurs Place

http://www.macarthurplace.com/

What I meant to say is which hotel or bb do you believe is what a person who consider represents the feeling of California wine country and would not be found in any other locale. Price should not matter.

bfsr9,

Opinions will vary at what makes an inn "wine country-esque". I wanted that quintessential Napa experience and looked for boutique inns which had the feel of being on a vineyard or "old world" charm. Having that style mixed in with contemporary or modern conveniences was a bonus.

Things that appealed to me were: old stone walls, terraces with great vineyard views, fabulous bathrooms with deep soaking or clawfoot tubs, attention to detail, lush fabrics & bedding, fireplace, gorgeous scented gardens, outdoor jacuzzis & pool, gourmet breakfasts, etc.

I'd look for an inn where I didn't want to leave the grounds....the perfect place to have breakfast alfresco or a glass of wine outdoors and blissfully soak in the surroundings.

There are many offerings that fit this bill in the Napa/Sonoma area, and we stayed at the 3 inns listed below and were very pleased with each and I'm a very discerning traveler.

We are big fans of the Four Sisters Inn group which has a handful or so boutique inns sprinkled throughout Napa/Sonoma (each has its own character: Old World, Craftsman, etc.):

http://www.foursisters.com/

our fave was Maison Fleurie which is in Yountville and is reminiscent of an inn in Southern France.

Other faves:

Cottage Grove Inn (Calistoga)
http://cottagegroveinn.com/
each cottage had its own theme and looked like it was styled for Architectual Digest. They were spacious with great attention to detail and the deepest 2-person jacuzzi tubs.

Kenwood Inn (Sonoma) http://www.kenwoodinn.com/
their site tells it all...a bit of Tuscany in Sonoma. Very luxe and romantic!

I also recommend checking out tripadvisor.com to get travelers reviews and photos of their stays at various inns throughout the region.

Cheers!

check out
www.napacottages.com

Really like the Grape Leaf Inn in Healdsburg, afternoon wine tasting, wine themed rooms, walking distance to the plaza and very nice rooms.