Hotel Healdsburg, Small Resort Feel in Historic Healdsburg

With more than 50 wineries within driving distance, this is one for the wine buffs. Food enthusiasts won't be disappointed either as Charlie Palmer's Dry Creek Kitchen serves some of the best in fresh, seasonal Sonoma cuisine.

My Insider Andy Levine notes this "sort of trendy" space is a favorite of his for dinner and another Insider, Amie O'Shaughnessy, says the restaurant should definitely be on your list. The 55 rooms are contemporary and comfortable, featuring wooden floors lain with Tibetan rugs, handsome furnishings and private balconies sporting views of the hotel garden and Sonoma countryside. Watch out for the rooms facing the town square—they can get a little noisy. If you've overindulged on the food and drink side of things, make sure you visit the spa, fitness center or the 60ft swimming pool, before setting out to explore the countryside or relaxing with a spot of fishing. 67 Miles north of San Francisco.

Rooms from $260.

Insider tip from Mr & Mrs Smith, one of my trusted resources:

"Pack the shades – it's blindingly bright round here – but leave the perfume/aftershave at home – artificial scents hijack your palate when sampling wines."

Get more tips, see photos, and book the guaranteed best rate on Mr & Mrs Smith:
www.mrandmrssmith.com/hotel-healdsburg