Tips to Terrific Times in Downtown Healdsburg

“Whether you live in a city or a small town, and whether you drive a car, take the bus or ride a train, at some point in the day, everyone is a pedestrian.” — Anthony Foxx

I love coming across great quotes like this. Especially those that our Camellia Inn B&B in downtown Healdsburg can truly identify with. There’s no greater truth than coming to Healdsburg and wanting to become a pedestrian almost immediately. There are so many things to experience while on foot in downtown Healdsburg. If you want to do some shopping, stop into some wineries, or enjoy some gallery time, below you’ll find a guide that’ll help you meet any of these needs as you meander around downtown Healdsburg.

Christopher Hill Gallery

Downtown Healdsburg
The Christopher Hill Gallery is exactly where it should be and that’s in the heart old downtown Healdsburg. The Christopher Hill Gallery is an exceptional spot, where you’ll be able to uncover for yourself a beautiful collection of treasures. The way the collections are presented to you and how it’s so significant and nestled within the area makes it such a beautiful choice to experience. We at the Camellia Inn know first hand just how unique their artwork is. We appreciate them, and we know that you will as well.

Erickson Fine Art Gallery

A San Francisco transplant, this art gallery has become fully immersed in the community of Healdsburg. They try and emphasize the art from Northern California Artists. They are in a Palladio style building in downtown Healdsburg. The Erickson Fine Art Gallery has three stories of light filled rooms, showcasing the gallery’s broad palette of talent from landscapes and figurative, to abstract work One World Fair Trade.
We think this is one of a select few stops you should make while roaming downtown Healdsburg. One World Fair Trade was established in 2002 and are independently owned. They specialize in authentic handmade gifts, jewelry, home decor, art, sculpture, textiles, clothing and women’s accessories representing the diverse cultures of artisans in Asia, Africa, Latin America, Middle East and the United States. The sale of their products improves the livelihood of disadvantaged artisans and help pay for food, education, healthcare and housing for those who would otherwise lack opportunity for a stable income. They have created a sustainable market with long term buying relationships with their producers representing over 50 countries.

Shoffeitt’s Off the Square

Who isn’t in the mood for a unique souvenir while on vacation in a town with a rich history like Healdsburg? If you said you, then make a pit stop into Shoffeitt’s Off the Square. This downtown Healdsburg icon has a beautiful, stylish and very well put together collection of Vintage, Antique and hand-made treasures for you and your family to look at. It’s a downtown Healdsburg staple!

Simi Winery

Simi Winery has come up in a few of our blogs and its not a mistake. It’s an absolute destination if you are hanging around downtown Healdsburg and especially if you’re a lover of great wine. Like it says on their website, Simi Winery is ‘Synonymous with Sonoma County.’ That’s 100 percent true. They’ve been going strong since 1876, and have been killing it ever since.

Zizi

Calling all women! Calling all women! If you’re visiting downtown Healdsburg for your shopping needs, then a stop at Zizi is a must. They specialize in creatively casual clothing. Zizi is one of the most popular women’s stores in downtown Healdsburg. From beautiful Jewelry, to Stiletto’s to casual clothing, Zizi is a great stop for you. Don’t hesitate to make a stop here, they have a lot to offer.
Downtown Healdsburg
When you come to Healdsburg, California you have some sort of an idea that you are coming to a town that is rich in history and has a wonderful supportive community. We also have a lot to offer you if you’re coming to shop, drink some wine, or enjoy a gallery visit. Whatever the reason is for your trip to Healdsburg, or your plans for downtown Healdsburg, we want you to realize that there’s no bad decision. We’d love for you to stay with us at the Camellia Inn because we are in the heart of downtown Healdsburg and within walking distance to these wonderful destinations. Please contact us if you have any questions about anything and everything. Cheers!
“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” — Ferris Bueller

Some of the Best Sights in Sonoma County

“Whoe’er has travel’d life’s dull round, Where’er his stages may have been, may sigh to think he still has found the warmest welcome, at an inn” – William Shenstone

So, you’ve moseyed over to our blog page because the title, the ‘Best Sights of Sonoma County’ caught your attention. I’m glad it did. I was kind of excited myself to sit down and write this post because I got to think about the absolute beauty that Sonoma County is and is surrounded by.
Sonoma County
The first thing to do, of course, is to book your stay with our Healdsburg Inn. The Camellia B&B is the center of everything in Healdsburg. Our Healdsburg Inn provides an easy come and easy go, old-fashioned but relevant bed and breakfast stay. This Healdsburg Inn provides us a unique ability to be able to create a blog post like this because we are lucky to be surrounded by so many beautiful sights to see. Below is a list of three of our favorite sights of Sonoma County.

Bodega Bay

There’s no place else that I could start! Our Healdsburg Inn is just about an hour away from Bodega Bay. There are a few ways that you could get there, all of which have a wonderful drive ahead of you, with many possible stops along the way. We hope you make it a whole day’s trip. There’s so much to see and do once you get to Bodega Bay, so get those cameras ready!
When you get to Bodega Bay, we suggest you head over to Doran Beach. There are remarkable scenic cliffs, access to sandy coves; vantage points for observing migrating gray whales. We suggest packing a picnic basket and take advantage of the smooth sand and wonderful views. If you have a handful of people, why not consider horseback riding on the beach. Yep, awesome, I know. Obviously, you’re staying at our Healdsburg Inn, but say you want to camp out for the night, they have campgrounds you can check into. We won’t give your room away, ha. Doran beach also has a boat launch, coastal access for fishing, clamming and surfing.
If you leave our Healdsburg Inn and head out to Bodega Bay for some seafood, there are some great options. We suggest Lucas Wharf for some fantastic Clam Chowder. Anything and everything crab, you can check out Spud Point Crab Company. Their Crab cakes are exceptional. Finally, Fisherman’s Cove is the place to get some delicious Oysters as well as a wonderful bowl of Clam Chowder.

Lake Sonoma/ Warm Springs Dam

We’ve heard so many stories here at our Healdsburg Inn about families heading up to Lake Sonoma while they stay with us. The stories all revolve around how much fun they had and how beautiful the setting is. All of us at our Healdsburg Inn, can attest to how brilliant Lake Sonoma and the Warm Springs Dam is. Lake Sonoma is about a 37-minute drive from our Healdsburg Inn’s front door. I’ll tell you this, the drive from here to there is breathtaking. It’s you and the road.
If this is a stop you are planning to make, we suggest setting up a picnic basket. There’s not much out there, so we don’t want you to be thirsty or hungry. If you want some breakfast for your road trip, our Healdsburg Inn will put something together for you. Just let us know!
Camping, Fishing, Boating, Hiking, and picnicking are all highly encouraged if Lake Sonoma is the destination for you. If you want to learn more about Lake Sonoma and Warm Springs Dam, click Lake Sonoma Information.Our Healdsburg Inn can put together an exact itinerary for you if you want. We don’t mind.

Armstrong Woods

I don’t know how many times that I’ve recommended Armstrong Woods to our Healdsburg Inn’s residents. It’s an extremely high number. Armstrong Woods is another 30-minute drive from our Healdsburg Inn’s central location.
Here are a few things to see and a few trails to go on while you’re enjoying Armstrong Woods.
The Tallest Tree
The Oldest Tree
The Colonel Armstrong Tree
The Icicle Tree
The Discovery Trail
Pioneer Nature Trail
Our Healdsburg Inn believes this is another excellent place to have a picnic or family adventure. It’s also a gorgeous venue to have a wedding. I suggest heading over to the Armstrong Woods website to read about the history of Armstrong Woods, as well as the trees stories and what you can look forward to on those fantastic trails.

Our Healdsburg Inn

We are proud of the fact that our Healdsburg Inn is located so close to all of Sonoma County’s beauty. You should contact us as soon as possible to book your rooms. Then allow us to help you plan a day trip to either Bodega Bay, Lake Sonoma or Armstrong Woods. We’ll pack a picnic basket and hope you’ll take us with you!
 

Healdsburg Breakfast – Can you Smell the Bacon?

“Breakfast was only worth having when somebody else made it for you.” – Caroline B. Cooney

Healdsburg Breakfast
How spot on is this quote from Caroline Cooney? Why is it so much better to eat breakfast at a restaurant rather than at home? It’s probably the fact that there’s no clean up involved and that the food is probably fresher than what you have sitting in your refrigerators. Our Healdsburg breakfast at the Camellia Inn Bed and Breakfast will be doing the cooking for you. Fresh, Locally Grown, & Delicious is what we live by when it comes to our breakfast. Whenever possible, our breakfast ingredients are locally-sourced, organic and sustainable, in-season and “right off the farm” fresh. Click this: Camellia Inn Breakfast, to read more about the many options we have for you during breakfast time at our Camellia Inn.
Obviously, when you stay with is at our B&B, you’ll have that option for breakfast each morning you wake up. There’s no pressure to eat breakfast with us. We completely understand that you might want to get a taste of the town. There are some wonderful Healdsburg breakfast options for you to choose from. Here are a few of those Healdsburg breakfast spots that we at the Camellia Inn have enjoyed over the years.

Flakey Cream DO-Nuts & Coffee Shop

Let’s just start this Healdsburg Breakfast list off with a blast from the past feeling breakfast joint. Flakey Cream DO-Nuts & Coffee Shop is located at 441 Center St. Only a 5-minute walk from our front door, This Healdsburg breakfast spot isn’t the place you go to for the feel. Flakey Cream DO-Nuts & Coffee Shop is the place you go to spend a reasonable amount of money for some hearty delicious breakfast food.
If you’ve read any of our other blog posts that have mentioned breakfast menu’s, then you’ll realize how fond I am of corned beef hash and eggs. Flakey Cream DO-Nuts & Coffee Shop won’t let you down there. They have a fantastic corned beef and hash option. A few other menu options from this great Healdsburg breakfast shop that you should check out are, biscuits and gravy, all American breakfast, and the #11. The #11 is vegetarian and provides you with 3 veggie sausages, eggs and hash browns. Don’t forget to get after a donut or 12! From ray’s originals to the custer-filled. You can’t go wrong. You bet big time! Owners, Vannak and Sokynthea (aka., Nick and Nickie) a married couple from Cambodia came to this country, worked hard, and established a top-notch coffee shop.

Shed

So, I’m not going to be like Will Ferell on Saturday Night live and yell at you to ‘GET OFF THE SHED’, rather I’m going to yell at you to ‘GET INTO THE SHED!” This Healdsburg breakfast spot is a nice place to enjoy some farm to table style menu items. SHED has a wonderful ambiance to it. It’s a very clean spot to enjoy your breakfast any day of the week.
The theme of this Healdsburg breakfast blog seems to be boiling down to a biscuits and gravy review. But seriously, SHED’s biscuits and gravy are to die for. You can also order this exceptional menu option, Anson Mills Stone Ground Polenta with a slow poached egg, garlic Scapes, wild mushrooms, and swiss chard Conserva. Trust us, it’s a must. Located at 25 North St, our B&B is only two minutes from this Healdsburg breakfast masterpiece!

Singletree Café

The Singletree Café, located on 165 Healdsburg Ave, is a lead pipe lock when you are deciding on a Healdsburg Breakfast option. A three-minute car ride from the Camellia Inn is where the Singletree Café sits waiting for you to come in. The portions are fresh as fresh can be, and filling. The Eggs Benedict as well as the Crab Benedict are brilliant. Another delicious treat is their blueberry pancakes. Trust us, be ready for blueberries! The Singletree Café is an old-fashioned Healdsburg breakfast staple, just like we are at the Camellia Inn.

Healdsburg Breakfast

Our Camellia Inn B&B is all about serving you breakfast. Contact us in order to book your rooms and ask us about our breakfast service. We love doing it, and so do these Healdsburg breakfast spots we listed in this blog post. This is just a few of the many breakfast places that are at your disposal when you stay with us or anywhere in Healdsburg. We suggest you take advantage of our daily locally sourced and delicious breakfast first. Then, head out and get a taste of the town.
“Everyone runs around trying to find a place where they still serve breakfast because eating breakfast, even if it’s 5 o’clock in the afternoon, is a sign that the day has just begun, and good things can still happen. Having lunch is like throwing in the towel.” ? Jonathan Goldstein

Eat your hearts out while lodging in Healdsburg California

Healdsburg, California is host to some of the best lodgings in Sonoma County, and we at the Camellia Inn Bed and Breakfast are a part of that. Our bed and breakfast has many options for you when you are planning your lodging. From our many cozy and comfortable on and offsite rooms, to our Spa and it’s many excellent treatments, and to our locally sourced breakfast. Lodging with the Camellia Inn is a great idea, and most likely, not the only thing you’ll need to plan while on your trip to Sonoma County.
If you’ve indeed decided to book your lodging anywhere in Sonoma County, then you’re most likely looking to stop in and partake in the many delicious eateries Sonoma County has to offer. Since you’ve booked your lodging with us at the Camellia Inn, here is a list of eateries near our lodging and some where you’ll need to take a nice little trip to get to; none are more than 20 minutes away.

Healdsburg California – Baci Cafe & Wine Bar

Healdsburg California
Located at 3336 Healdsburg Ave, Baci is only a five-minute walk from your Camellia Inn Bed and Breakfast lodging. When you check out this place, you’ll have to be in the mood for an up-tempo and busy atmosphere. This is a high flying social buzzing restaurant that has excellent service and even better food. Start off with the Carpaccio and the Burrata appetizers, follow that with the short ribs, the excellent Bolognese sauce or the exceptional Petrale Sole. If you don’t already have a sense about Wines and what they should be paired with, don’t hesitate to ask your servers. They are some of the best around and most knowledgeable on the wine pairing topic. They are glad and ready to help you get the very best out of your dining experience.

Dierks Parkside Café

Located at 446 Santa Rosa Ave in Santa Rosa, Dierks Parkside Café is worth the 15-minute drive from your Healdsburg lodging. This brilliant breakfast establishment has been a main stay of Santa Rosa for many years and has another location on 1422 4th street. You can check that location out, but the original has all the ambiance and history which, in our opinion, leads to a better eating experience.
What you’ll need to consider first, the restaurant is a small one and the whole town wants to eat here, especially on the weekends. But, the wait is worth it. The food you’ll receive is second to none and the serving sizes are big and not too hard on the wallet. A few staples are the delicious chicken fried steak and my personal favorite, corned beef hash. Both were among the best that we’ve had. The chicken fried steak has an exceptional flavor and fantastic breading. The service is always prompt and extremely reliable. You’ll probably need a morning nap, so head back to your lodging and take a nap in one of the Camellia Inn’s comfortable beds.

Amy’s Wicked Slush

Located at 13840 Healdsburg Ave, Amy’s Wicked Slush is another short 4-minute drive or ten-minute walk from the front doors of your Camellia Inn lodging. We can’t express enough how fun this place is, and quick. If you are in a hurry and just need something to hold you over, this is your place. If you’re lodging in Healdsburg and are out walking around with your family, and your kids are in the mood for a delicious slushy, again this is the place to check out. From Bagels to Meatball Subs, Regular brewed Coffee to Waffle Cones, Amy’s Wicked Slush is a real treat of a choice while lodging in Sonoma County.

Russian River Brewing Company

Located at 725 4th street in Santa Rosa, California, Russian River Brewing Company is a must visit while lodging anywhere in Sonoma County. It’s just a short 15 minute drive from your lodging in Healdsburg. Their beer list is second to none in the area. From the Blind Pig to their most popular Pliny IPA, the beers are amazing. But a lot of people don’t recognize Russian River Brewing Company for some of the most delicious appetizers, salads and mouth-watering Pizzas. This is what I order every time I check into Russian River Brewing Company, A Pint of Blind Pig, A Cesar Salad (which could feed 2), the Drew Bites (a cheese pizza cut up into little bites and topped pepperoncini’s) and followed by a Mikey Pizza (mozzarella, marinara, pepperoni, sausage & caramelized onions). If I’m not too full, I’ll finish the evening with a Belgian style beer that has a fruity taste, it’s called the Damnation. The service is a little spotty because the place is busy almost every night and day. But, it’s well worth the reward when you take your first sips and nibbles.
All in all, there are so many options around the area for you when lodging with us at the Camellia Inn in Healdsburg, California. These are just a few of the choices we have grown to love, and we hope you do to!

Healdsburg B&B for the Holidays – Book your stay and enjoy the Holiday Events

Well, it’s 2 and a half weeks until Christmas! Are you all ready? We here at the Camellia Inn Healdsburg b&b, are ready for you. If you’re planning a trip to the North Bay for the Holidays, and Healdsburg is on your radar, we hope you’ll consider a stay at our Bed and Breakfast. Bring the family, we have plenty of options at our Healdsburg b&b. For example, we have our “Family Suite” with two rooms sharing a bath which can be perfect for up to four. We have so many more options, just head on over to our website to take a peak at everything our Healdsburg b&b has to offer.
Whether you stay with us or at another Healdsburg b&b during the Holidays, there will be a bevy of entertaining options going on in Healdsburg and our surrounding Sonoma County areas. I thought I’d introduce you to a bunch of Holiday events going on, in hopes that it’ll encourage you to plan a Holiday trip and stay at the Camellia Inn.

Holiday Lighted Boat Parade

Healdsburg BB
On Saturday December 9, from 6 pm until 8pm, The Petaluma River Turning Basin will be having an exceptional boat lighting parade. Check into our Healdsburg b&b, and head down to Petaluma. It’s only a 30-minute drive from our Camellia Inn Healdsburg b&b to the town of Petaluma. We suggest you make a day out of it. There will be free tastings of Pie from the Petaluma Pie Company and the Petaluma Holiday Arts and Crafts Sale will be taking place from 10 am until 4 pm. Then you can kick back and enjoy the Holiday lit and decorated boats float on by. It’s a really great time, and best of all it’s free.

Wine and Dine

I think we all can agree, anything having to do with Wining and Dining is going to get people’s attention. How about a Wine Walking tour? These tours are especially popular during the spring and summer months. But, during the Holidays, they are extremely special. A 4-hour day tour is offered every day, but we highly recommend an evening tour which is only offered from Thursday through Sunday.
Our town of Healdsburg is all lit up in its Holiday glory, so you’ll witness the magic of the season while enjoying the tastes of the town from three of our top restaurants. Enjoy the Christmas tree lit plaza, colorful street decorations, festive window displays and carolers. What’s also unique, your evening tour can be catered around any of the Holiday events that may be happening at that time. Also, our Camellia Inn Headsburg b&b is in the heart of the city, so it can be your home base as you begin your Holiday Wine Walking Tour.
You can get all the information you need here at www.winecountrywalkingtours.com. You can also contact us at our Camellia Healdsburg b&b and we’ll help you get all set up.

Madrona Manor’s Dickens Dinner Series

The Dickens Dinners are a highlight of the year at Madrona Manor, when carolers wander the dining rooms, dressed in period clothing of Olde 19th Century England, and The Twelfth Night Singers pause for private a-cappella serenades of “Jingle Bells” and breathtaking hymns. Even more delicious, is the Michelin-star executive chef Jesse Mallgren’s five-course celebration of new and old holiday traditions, paired with wines. Prices range from $110 – $210 depending on the night. Reservations for Christmas Eve and Christmas day require a non-refundable deposit of $50 per person. The dinner dates are December 8 through December 25th. Stay at our Healdsburg b&b and you’re a five-minute walk from the Madrona Manner. A Michelin Chef and the Camellia Inn Healdsburg b&b, no-brainer!

Horse Drawn Carriage Rides

Santa Rosa, California is only a 15-minute drive from our Healdsburg b&b. Starting back on November 24th and lasting until Christmas Eve, Santa Rosa will be offering exceptional Holiday Horse Carriage rides on the weekends. Weather permitting, you’ll be able to take advantage of a free horse carriage ride around the historic Santa Rosa Railroad Square. Take a ride between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays and from 11 to 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve. For more information you can head over to http://www.railroadsquare.net/

Happy New Year, Charlie Brown!

If you are planning a New Year’s stay at our Healdsburg b&b with your children then on December 31st, the Charles M. Shultz Museum in Santa Rosa has the family event for you. Starting at 10 am you can start to ring in the New Year with Snoopy, hands-on crafts for kids, and Santa Rosa’s only Up-Down and Baby Balloon Drops at noon. There will be root beer toasts at noon and 3:00 p.m.!
I know there is something on this list of Holiday Events that’ll entice a trip and stay at our Camellia Inn Healdsburg b&b. This is also just a short list! There are so many other special Holiday events happening all around us and ones that keep popping up. It’s a great time to book a trip!

Tapas to Tasting Rooms – Healdsburg Has Your Back

Our Camellia Inn Bed and Breakfast is extremely lucky to be in the heart of beautiful Healdsburg, California. For the past 30 years, the Camellia Inn has been providing a comfortable experience the weary business traveler needs, the romantic stays a loving couple needs, a staycation for a much-needed getaway someone might want, and so much more. So, that’s enough about us!
You’ve decided that the Camellia Inn Bed and Breakfast is the best place to stay, now what? There’s so much that Healdsburg has to offer, and what surrounds us is also exceptional. Planning your everyday activities can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you know nothing about our Sonoma or Napa Counties. Everyone here at the Camellia Inn can help you plan any activities you want to take part in. We can also help you plan the whole trip if you just want to take all thought out of it. To give you an idea of some wonderful activities to take part in and some delicious restaurants to fill your belly, then please keep reading. Here are a few ideas for restaurants and activities that we at the Camellia Inn believe are fantastic options for you or yours.

Costeaux French Bakery

If you’ve decided to bypass our breakfast at the Camellia Inn, which is fine wink…wink, then heading over to Costeaux French Bakery is a solid idea. Costeaux French Bakery started in 1923 and has been a Healdsburg staple ever since. Their bread recipes have been extremely successful over the years which has helped them win a handful of awards. Once you walk in, there’s no mistaking the décor as being completely French Bistro. You’ll be surrounded by charcuterie, an assortment of cheeses, and pastries. If you are looking for a top of the line sandwich, then this is your place. Any sandwich on their exceptional bread is a treat, but one of our favorites is the Chicken Panino on their Ciabatta Bread. Their soups are excellent as well as their homemade quiches. You can’t go wrong with a stop here.

Williamson Wines Tasting Room

Healdsburg
One of the most excellent things about the Camellia Inn bed and breakfast in Healdsburg is, we are in walking distance to almost anything you want to do. Two minutes from the Camellia Inn’s front door is Matheson street, and that’s where the fantastic Williamson Wines Tasting Room resides. This shop is a combination tasting room and Wine shop.
What sets this place apart from some other tasting rooms is that you don’t need a reservation. If you’re out and about and enjoying Healdsburg, just head on in. The owners have many award-winning wines for you to taste as well as some food that’ll pair exceptionally well. If you want to plan a private tasting, Williamson Wines Tasting room would love to accommodate that. If you don’t know who to contact, we at the Camellia Inn would love to help you with this.

Bravas

“One of the top 20 tapas restaurants in the U.S.” –Travel + Leisure
Are you a tapas fan? If so, this is one of the best places in Healdsburg to head over to. You can choose from an assortment of cold or hot tapas. My choice for a cold tapa, the Goat Cheese Toast and Beet Salad. You should then move on to the unbelievable Duck Meatballs. Top that off with the warm Monterey Calamari and the Croquetas. Their Spanish Wines and Ports are heavenly as is their Sangria. It’s a must stop for you when you stay at our Camellia Inn.

Noble Folk Ice Cream & Pie Bar

Also, a two-minute walk from the Camellia Inn, the Noble Folk Ice Cream & Pie Bar is a great place to tend to your sweet cravings. The owners of the very popular Moustache Baked Goods decided to open a locally sourced Ice Cream and Pie Par. Their pies will include grains such as faro and buckwheat, and they’ve been known to use almost forgotten cooking techniques and recipes. Their heritage pies are exceptional. The pie offerings as well as ice cream flavors change almost daily, which adds to the allure of this place. A few of us at the Camellia Inn recommend their Mississippi Mud Pie and then their Single Original Stumptown Coffee Flavored Ice Cream.

In the End…

When you book your stay with is at our Camellia Inn Bed and Breakfast, you’ll already be off to the right start. The places I listed above are just a few options for you to help fill your days and nights while staying with us at the Camellia Inn. From Ice Cream and Mud Pies, to Wine Tasting and Tapas, your options are endless. Whatever you choose to take part in, we at the Camellia Inn will be here if you need any support or guidance. Please don’t hesitate to reach out and contact us!

Walking, Cycling or Carriage Tours – A few fun things to do in Healdsburg

So, you’ve decided to stay on your next trip at our Healdsburg b&b. Now it’s time to figure out exactly what you want to do while you stay at our Camellia Healdsburg b&b. Whether this trip is a work trip, vacation or just a getaway, Healdsburg has so many enjoyable things for you to partake in. Here you’ll find a handful of activities that we believe will help you to get the most out of your trip to Healdsburg.

Places to See in Healdsburg

Wine Country Walking Tour
Healdsburg
It’s no secret our Healdsburg b&b is surrounded by some of the best wineries. Whether it’s the picturesque Jordan Vineyard Winery on Alexander Valley Road, to the rural splendor of Bella Vineyards, or to the beautiful and rich history of the Seghesio Family Winery. While staying at our Healdsburg b&b, you can take part in a unique experience through a Wine Country Walking Tour.
Our Healdsburg b&b can help you put this together. A great idea is to get some exercise while sampling some different local wines and cuisine while on a Wine Country Walking Tour through downtown Healdsburg. You can expect nothing short of exceptional service. The tour guides are friendly and educated in the rich history of local wineries and cuisine. They highly encourage you to ask any questions you have or may arise during the tour. Chat with local winemakers, meet gourmet artisans, and then savor the fabulous flavors they have created for you. The Wine Country Walking Tour wants you to be engaged in the whole process so that you can achieve the very best experience imaginable.
The Wine Country Carriage
Another unique experience to take part in while staying at our Camellia Inn, is a Wine Country Carriage Tour. Leave your car at the Healdsburg b&b and take a five-hour Belgian horse carriage ride through surrounding Healdsburg vineyards. During your horse-pulled carriage tour you’ll make stops at three different wineries. Bring your cameras so you can take pictures of the beautiful scenery that’ll surround you. You’ll get to see so many landscapes and vineyards that no car could ever take you to.
The Healdsburg Plaza
The Healdsburg Plaza is just a short walk from the front door of our Camellia Inn. If you don’t know what you are looking to do, then a walk around the Healdsburg Plaza is a decision you can’t go wrong with. The gazebos are a host to live music, and the small park is surrounded by boutiques, restaurants, and wine bars. There’s no map needed, just pick any direction and you’ll achieve your own Healdsburg experience. If you want ideas for a few great stops surrounding the plaza, then please ask the staff at our Healdsburg b&b. We’ll point you in the right direction.
Wine Country Bike Tour
There are so many reasons why the Amgen Tour of California keeps having Sonoma County as one of their anchors for this bike race. We believe the most prevalent one being, peaceful. What’s better than riding your bicycle on fantastic roads and the most picturesque settings? There are so many options for you if you want to go this route.
Whether you’re an experienced cyclist, casual rider, or a family with children, there are many itineraries for you to choose from. Our Healdsburg b&b has information for you, but there’s also a ton of information online for you to check out. You can head on over to the Santa Rosa Cycling Club’s website for some information on bike rentals and organized tours.
One local company that we highly recommend is Adventures in Cycling. Dave Brazell runs a boutique Napa-Sonoma County Cycling adventure. Adventures in cycling will customize your bike tour so that you can have the very best experience possible. You can choose a day bike tour, motorized bike tour or a multi-day bike tour. All their tours are packaged with fantastic views, engaging guides, a few great wine tasting stops, and some great food. Dave and the gang at Adventures in Cycling will customize your bike tour around your location. So, when you check into our Healdsbug b&b, you won’t have to worry about anything. Dave will meet you at a location, so you can begin your bike tour. All you’ll need to bring is a great attitude and be ready to have a fantastic time on your bike tour.
Healdsburg B&B
When you stay with us at our Healdsburg b&b, you’ve already made your first great decision. But, what you do while you stay with us, is entirely up to you. There’s no bad decisions in our opinion. If you decide on the Wine Country Walking Tour, or the Belgium Horse Carriage Ride, or that Wine Country Bicycle Tour, you’ll be sure to have a great time. But these are just a small list of options at your disposal. Healdsburg offers you so much more. Please ask us at the Camellia Healdsburg b&b about anything else. There are always so many new events that are in the works all throughout the year.

Adventures for the Healdsburg Traveler: Russian River Excursions

Nestled in the Russian River Valley, Healdsburg is known for its enticing restaurants and wine tours. Yet, if you are looking for a day out with nature, this small city provides the perfect launching point for fun both on, and along the Russian River. Beginning in the coastal mountain ranges of northern California, the river flows southward through Healdsburg and turns westward toward the coast, where it empties into the Pacific at the town of Jenner. From casual sunbathing and swimming, to paddling and rock-picking by the sea, there are many ways to enjoy a day on the water. Here are three of our top outdoor options, sure to relax and inspire.  
River and the Coast:
Russian River
There is nothing quite like watching the river meet the ocean. Lucky for you, there are two ideal spots to watch and explore the end of the river. For a longer day trip, begin your scenic drive to the ocean mid morning. First head to Goat Rock State Beach. A short walk from the parking lot puts you at eye level with the mouth of the river. If you come in spring and summer months, Pacific harbor seals and their pups will be playing, napping, or surfing in the waves. Sand dollars, small shells, and colorful rocks can be found anytime of year. Those of you wanting a workout, try hiking the coastal Kortum Trail.
Once you have your beach fix, have dinner at River’s End Restaurant. Or, skip Goat Rock all together and come just for a meal at sunset. Order the oysters. This romantic dinner with a view is worth the trip alone! All tables are placed in front of west-facing windows to capture the scenery while you eat. Perched atop the hills above the shore, the wrap-around porch has panoramic views of the river, ocean, and coast. Peer south and upriver to see islands of willow and maybe spot a deer grazing on them, a testament to their strong swimming capabilities. Look north and giant boulders guard the cliffs.
Bring a warm jacket or coat. The coast can be anywhere from 10-20 degrees cooler than in the valley back at your B&B Healdsburg room.
How to get there:
This scenic drive to the coast is about 1 hour long, depending on your route. Make your way to Highway 116 in Guerneville. Head west on 116. With the river on your left and the redwoods on your right, this is a gorgeous stretch of road. Once you hit the famous Highway 1, turn right/north to find the town of Jenner and River’s End Restaurant. To find Goat Rock State Park turn left/south. After you cross the river and ascend the bluffs, the park entrance will be on your right. Meander down the road to the farthest parking lot to the north.
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Just Around the River Bend:
If a laid back and easy adventure is what you are looking for, then Del Rio Woods Recreations is the place to go. Just minutes from your doorstep at Camellia Inn B&B Healdsburg, this hidden swimming hole is a gem. Now managed by Sonoma County Regional Parks, it is relatively unknown to tourists. Picnic, swim, sunbathe, and relax. Wander out onto a sandy peninsula shaded by willows. This gives you a tad more privacy.
How to get there:
There is a reason for the secretiveness of the park: it is not well marked. Once on N Fitch Mountain Rd, you become aware of the river on your right. Go another mile and turn right onto Del Rio Rd (not marked!), which runs almost parallel to Fitch. It appears to be a dead-end street, but trust it. Soon an inconspicuous parking lot with Porta-Potties on your right appears. Park and walk down to the riverfront.
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Canoe and Kayak Trips:
For the more adventurous, call Loli at River’s Edge Kayak and Canoe to book a half or full day, self-guided trip. They provide the boat, gear, and shuttle to the upstream launch point, and you paddle back to your car at headquarters. Private guides are available. Choose from a 5-6 mile half day paddle (Rio Trip), or a longer 11-16 mile journey that puts you upstream into the more wild and pristine stretches of the river (Alex Trip).
How to get there:
River’s Edge is only a 3 minute drive or 20 min walk from Camellia Inn, on the banks below the Healdsburg Ave bridge.
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No matter your mood, there is a Russian River adventure to suit it. Let us at Camellia Inn B&B Healdsburg be your base camp.  Contact us for more information.  

Healdsburg's Camellia Inn – Your Holiday Destination

“I’ve never stayed at a bed and breakfast. If I did, I figure you would start to get hungry! “Is that all you got around here? Well, maybe you can direct me to a chair lunch dinner.” Mitch Hedberg
The weather is beginning to turn colder here in Healdsburg, California. There is Rain in the forecast, and the Holiday season has officially begun. The Halloween celebrations bring us that much closer to the Holiday season and those Healdsburg lodging decisions.
If you’re in school, with your significant other or with your family, sitting down to plan out your lodging for the Holidays can be stressful; but it can also be exciting. Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah or whatever Holiday is coming up that you partake in, always brings people into their hometowns to visit with their families and friends, or it’ll provide some people with a nice Holiday getaway. If you aren’t staying with your families or friends, or just want that seasonal trip away, booking your Healdsburg lodging stay at the Camellia Inn Bed & Breakfast is a fantastic idea.

We are the Healdsburg Lodging Choice for a Holiday Getaway

Camellia Inn
If you’ve decided to plan your trip to Healdsburg, California for a Holiday getaway, then the ideal Healdsburg lodging choice is the Camellia Inn. If you’ve come to this blog then you are informed about Healdsburg, California and are probably intrigued. I know, the months of November and December don’t necessarily scream, “let’s go Golfing.” But, to be quite honest, if it’s not raining, it’s a great time to hit the links. The scenery is beautiful, and for the most part, you’ll have the course to yourself. If the Camellia Inn becomes your Healdsburg lodging choice, we offer a unique Special Package for Golfers. If you book lodging at the Inn, you’ll receive a 60-minute private lesson for two people from a local golf pro. Two sets of golf clubs will be included. You’ll be able to play and practice at Tayman Park Golf Course, just minutes from the Inn. Follow that with a couples’ massage with a licensed massage therapist in our new spa room. This Healdsburg lodging package can be fun for anyone.

If your Parent’s place is filled, Stay with Us

Our Healdsburg lodging is like waking up at home on Christmas morning. This isn’t meant to come across cheesy or sappy, it’s meant to come off real. In my experience, there’s nothing finer than coming back to your parent’s house during the Holidays and waking up to that once familiar setting. It’s comforting and makes us feel whole again for just a few minutes in time. Our goal here at the Camellia Inn, not just during the Holidays, but anytime, is to provide you with that type of lodging. A lodging that allows you to feel at home. Our Healdsburg lodging wants you to go to sleep in a bed that’ll make you feel like you are sleeping in between your parents on Christmas Eve. Wake up with us, then enjoy our seasonal breakfast, which is a selection of farmers market fresh egg dishes, fruits and bounty from the same earth that thrilled famed horticulturist Luther Burbank and still inspires Sonoma County winemakers. You can stay in your pajamas if you want. We don’t care. Maybe, we’ll open some presents together. I don’t know, but we want you to feel at home. Our Healdsburg lodging choices are vast. Click right here to peek at the rooms we offer.

Sonoma County Strong

The Holidays can’t always bring you home. There may be no home to go to. This is so true right now in our County of Sonoma. All of us here in Healdsburg, California have been affected by the recent wildfires. We’ve lost homes, or our families lost homes, or our friends have lost homes, we are trying to rally around one-another to help us rise from the ashes. This Holiday season will be especially tough on all the local business owners, whom have lost their homes. What they need is help from people outside of Sonoma and Napa County.
We hope that the Camellia Inn and our Healdsburg lodging is what you choose in that effort to help our communities. Our Innkeepers at the Camellia Inn will have all the information you need so spend your money that’ll directly support these local business owners and help them move forward.

A Very Historical Healdsburg Inn – Cheers to Taverns

“There is no private house in which people can enjoy themselves so well as at a capital tavern… No, Sir; there is nothing which has yet been contrived by man by which so much happiness is produced as by a good tavern or inn.” – Samuel Johnson
I’ve recently been hooked on two television programs that take place back in the late 1700’s and early 1800’s. Those shows are Poldark and Outlander. Obviously not being around during those times, these television shows have portrayed a very realistic view on Samuel Jonson’s quote. A Tavern or an Inn, was a place to go and have some of your happiest of times. Our Healdsburg Inn, called the Camellia Inn doesn’t boast a tavern where you can come and drink away until all ours of the night. What our Healdsburg Inn does provide you with, is that happy feeling we all are always looking out for, and what looked like most people of the 17th and 18th centuries got to partake in regularly.

How our Healdsburg Inn Started

The building that is now the Camellia Inn played a historic role in Healdsburg. Contractor, William H. Middleton built the now Healdsburg Inn as a home for pioneer Ransome Powell in 1871. Powell, the son of a Tennessee farmer, was a tailor before fighting in the Mexican War. He came to California in 1849 with the Gold Rush. Failing to find gold, he began to earn a living by hauling freight. Settling in Healdsburg in 1856, he began several ventures, but it was in real estate that he made his fortune. Powell decided to sell the now Healdsburg Inn to Dr. J. W. Seawell in 1908. Dr. Seawell established the first Healdsburg hospital in the east wing of his home. The Hospital moved in 1969. Ray and Delmas Lewand purchased the home in 1981. Looking for a small-town atmosphere, the Lewands moved from Southern California and opened the Camellia Healdsburg Inn as one of the first licensed bed and breakfast Inn’s in the area.

Local Taverns

Healdsburg Inn
As you can see from the picture of our Healdsburg Inn, we have remained true to the overall feel of an old-time Inn. Inside, it’s a different story. Please click here to see more pictures as well as learn more about how our rooms look like compared to previous centuries. Our beds are more comfortable!! As Samuel Johnson said in the quote at the top of this blog post, taverns were exceptional. Back in the day they were like this eras night clubs. Back in the day, taverns were usually on the bottom floor of an Inn, that’s not so much the case these days. But, our beautiful Healdsburg Inn is walking distance to a very popular tavern, or brewery called The Bear Republic.
Our Healdsburg Inn, is only a five-minute walk to where you can get a taste of an array of deliciously locally brewed beer. As well as a fantastic menu that serves, in my opinion the best Chicken Wings around. The chicken wings are cooked with their most famous beer, Racer 5. As well as some more sauces to dip them in afterward. They also have a terrific Burger list, as well as salads and of course that extensive beer list. They are also very kid friendly and have an enjoyable kid’s menu.

Cheers to the Healdsburg Inn

Our Healdsburg Inn has a rich history and we at the Camellia Inn can accommodate anything. If you are needing a getaway, and would like some wine, food and a massage, then we have the package or room for you. If you want to come to the Healdsburg Inn for your romantic getaway, we have the Wine Country Date package that’ll meet that need. Also, if you’re looking to host a party or get together with a group of friends, we have off-site rooms that will give you your privacy while also being connected to the Camellia Innkeepers.
Like those Inn’s back in the day, this Healdsburg Inn is connected to everyone and everything. We may not have a tavern for you to enjoy, but we are a bed and breakfast. If you are looking to be around other people, then breakfast time is indeed the place to be. Also, our pool will be another area to kick back and enjoy a nice conversation.
I think we all can agree, the Camellia Inn’s history, ties to local breweries, packages we offer, and overall experience is what will win anyone over when deciding to stay at this Healdsburg Inn. Just like those two shows I have gotten hooked on, Poldark and Outlander, the Inn’s those shows portray are not unlike our Healdsburg Inn. Those Inn’s and our Healdsburg Inn are connected because all we want to do is provide an exceptional service and a comfortable place to stay. Contact us and place your booking.

Healdsburg's Camellia Inn B&B Has You Covered

If you’re looking for a little rest and recuperation time, a little romantic getaway time, a little recharge from the daily grind time, we know that where you choose to stay absolutely matters. It’s beginning to be the time where your Holiday vacation trips plans are starting to become a reality. When you are choosing your trips plans you can choose something completely on the beaten path, book a replica stay as was recommended by someone, or go with the corporate trip. On the flip side you can choose to go with a b&b in Healdsburg, where guests are treated with hospitality and care, rooms are unique and cozy, and your experience will be unique and special. But you don’t want just any bed and breakfast. You want one of the best b&b loactions in Healdsburg and we’ve got you covered!

A Little about Healdsburg Camellia Inn B&B

Camellia Inn B&B
Located in Healdsburg, in the heart of Sonoma County’s wine country, a Holiday getaway to our Healdsburg B&B is the perfect choice. Our Inn has more than 50 varieties of camellias on the landscaped grounds and surrounding our villa-style swimming pool which provides that serene setting. Merging technology and charm, Camellia Inn B&B is the first of the lodging accommodations in Healdsburg to offer iPads for guest use in the Inn’s nine guest rooms.
The Camellia Inn has a rich 30-year history. During these 30 years, our Healdsburg B&B has developed and continues to develop deep and cherished relationships with our community and its surrounding area. These relationships give our B&B a unique edge when we are planning your stay with us. These connections help us in providing the very best experience for your stay with us in Healdsburg. Local taverns and the Bear Republic brew-pub are close to the historic Healdsburg town plaza where Zagat-rated restaurants, wine hospitality rooms, antique stores, art galleries and chic shops provide the best of Wine Country. Also, with every season that is on the horizon, an abundance of special events and free concerts present themselves. The Camelia Inn B&B has innkeepers that will be up to date on everything going on, so you won’t feel like you’ve missed out on anything.

Sonoma County Strong

We here at the Camellia Inn understand that we are fast approaching the Holiday season. It’s beginning to be the time where you are deciding what you will be doing for Thanksgiving and Christmas. The recent wildfires that ravaged Sonoma and Napa Counties may be forcing some of you to re-think a trip out to the West Coast but, if I’m being completely honest there’s no better time to plan your trip to Healdsburg, California.
While the fires impacted a portion of Sonoma County, our Healdsburg scenic beauty, rolling vineyards, amazing wine and locally grown food remains intact. Many friends of ours who own businesses have lost their homes and what they need more than ever is support. The support has already started locally, our counties are strong, together and not wavering. But, the support from tourism and vacation stays will help in an even greater way. As we strive to take care of our community and our neighbors in surrounding communities, we are asking for your help to support Sonoma County wineries, breweries, cheese makers, farmers and local artisans. Purchases of items that were bottled in, made in, grown in, brewed in or otherwise came from Sonoma County help local families recover economically.
There’s only so much we can do locally, having you all choose to stay with us here at the Camellia Inn B$B Healdsburg will aid in the rising of our brilliant County. Contact us and book your stay.

The Camellia Inn, a Traveler's Home Away from Home in Healdsburg, California

When we sit down and define what we offer at the Camellia Inn in Healdsburg, California for today’s business traveler or any traveler for that matter, three things come to mind, Honesty, Value and Transparency. Hotels don’t need to throw a lot of emphasis on wooing the business traveler, but Bed and Breakfast establishments do.
Healdsburg, a Business Travelers Destination of Choice?
Camellia Inn
Healdsburg, California isn’t the first choice when it comes to planning your work trip stay. We also can admit that it’s an extremely difficult task to try and get the business traveler to stay with us over other hotels for that matter. But what The Camellia Inn, in Healdsburg does offer, is a location that’s only a short trip from Santa Rosa, where most of the travelers come to for work. Since the Santa Rosa Airport is located between Santa Rosa and Healdsburg, it could be a great option for you to come up North which is only 10 minutes from the Airport and stay with us. You can rent a car from the airport, head 10 minutes to the Camellia Inn and then travel 20 minutes into work in Santa Rosa. The Value in doing this, for us, is the overall well-being of you as an individual. Like I said above, we are in the business of Value and Honesty, and your work trip will be better if you choose to stay with us at the Camellia Inn in Healdsburg over one of the local hotels in the middle of the busy city.
Don’t get us wrong, we are in the business of catering to the romantic getaway or the quick weekend getaway, but the Camellia Inn in Healdsburg, California offers you, the business traveler, a location away from the busy town you are working in. We all know how work can be so Healdsburg is a perfect place for you to unplug from your workday. You can get out and have a delicious dinner at one of our fine eateries. The Camellia Inn is centered in the heart of Healdsburg and like us locals say, ‘You’re two minutes away from everything.” After you eat, or walk around the town of Healdsburg, you can head back to the Camellia Inn, and plug back into your work and enjoy free Wifi. No matter what time you must be in to work, you will have time to enjoy our breakfast that’s locally grown and organically sustained. If you woke up late, because you had the best night’s sleep on one of our exceptional mattresses and super soft sheets, we’ll make you up a breakfast to go. You won’t have to worry about a thing!
This is a great point by a business traveler, “The urban inns are the ‘no brainer’ locations for the business customer. For the more remote country B&B’s, you may not have a lot of large corporations or business centers near you that bring travelers to your area. But there may be smaller businesses, colleges, and hospitals in these more isolated areas.” This is so true! Healdsburg, California is close to many wineries. I can only imagine how many trips are being planned right now by restaurant owners wanting to go on tours and learn about these wines, so they can serve them in their restaurants all over the world. The Camellia Inn is the perfect place for those businesses to anchor down.
All in all, the Camellia Inn in Healdsburg, California probably won’t be the first spot you think about when planning your next business trip to Sonoma County. But, if you want to think about Honesty, Value and Transparency, then maybe it should be. My cousin used to work for Johnson and Johnson as a sales representative, and she traveled the United States. She stayed in many different hotels that her company put her up in. When she could start booking her own places to stay, and she had the option to stay at a Bed and Breakfast over Hotels, she always chose the Bed and Breakfast. She told me, “Staying at a Bed and Breakfast would always remind her of her mom. Being on the road 280 days a year could get extremely lonely. So, any chance I could get to feel like I was home, I definitely took.”
 

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