Stanford Inn by the Sea & Spa

Joan and Jeff Stanford have created a sophisticated hotel in several attractive natural-wood buildings on 10 sheltered acres just to the south of Mendocino village. The personable staff are happy to offer advice on activities from special walks to DVD selection from the inn’s vast library. Browse through the gift shop’s selection of books (organic gardening, spirituality, dogs, vegetarian cooking and travel) and make yourself at home with the friendly resident cats in the expansive living room. Beyond the living room lies the Raven’s restaurant, which serves vegetarian fare featuring organic fare and offers a full bar serving organic liquors and wines. All rooms and suites have private decks with views across beautiful gardens and pastures where llamas graze. Paneled walls are hung with artwork and the fireplaces are supplied with plenty of wood to warm you on nippy nights. Everything is fresh and pretty and smart. A wonderful bonus is the greenhouse enclosed sauna and pool where guests can enjoy a swim, take a sauna, or soak in the spa even on blustery days. Enjoy a yoga class, massage in the forest or a workout in the exercise room. You are very welcome to bring your well-behaved dogs and children. Borrow mountain bikes and tour the town or explore the adjacent Big River by kayak or canoe.