boon hotel & spa

Eco-friendly contemporary retreat with pool and spa in the Russian River valley, 90 minutes North of San Francisco

Oft-dubbed the culinary cradle of the US, with over 250 wineries and superb restaurants showcasing local ingredients, beautiful Sonoma County is also favoured for its rolling hills, hot springs, spectacular coast and redwood groves. God's bounty writ large.

The good folk (Jill, Crista and Sue) who took a rundown property on the outskirts of Guerneville, a small laidback town in the less travelled Russian River Valley, and transformed it into an understated retreat with cool contemporary styling, are greatly respectful of this gift of the earth and its resources. And they're equally passionate about comfort (luxurious linens drape the beds), clean design (a crisp colour scheme of clinical white, stormy grey and bright orange runs through the 14 rooms), and genuine hospitality. The heated pool and loungers provide a focal point; the spa sublime indulgence. The hotel is within 30 minutes of most attractions and 5 minutes from beautiful Armstrong Woods. Tranquil boon hotel + spa is truly a benefit bestowed upon all who come to stay.

Highs

• Saline solar-heated pool and hot tub with loungers
• The layout of pool area next to the bar with its friendly staff provides an air of relaxed informality; guests easily fall into conversation
• This is Sonoma County California! You can do everything in this neck of the woods: wine tasting, kayaking, riding, hiking, surfing, hot-air ballooning
• Small spa with two treatment rooms and good spa menu
• Genuine eco-credentials (solar-heated pool, reclaimed or natural materials used in furnishings, compostable plates and cups, recycling)
• Newly opened sister property boon eat + drink is a modern California bistro in town, ingredients and beverages sourced locally

Lows

• No meals offered other than a simple breakfast at the hotel itself so you'll have to venture out for lunch and dinner, which could mean driving 40 minutes if you want to explore Sonoma County's best gastro establishments
• No indoor common areas
• Some road noise