Stillwater Cove Ranch, Jenner

I have stayed at Stillwater Cove Ranch several times over the past five years, both alone and with family members. I have also stayed at other places like the Jenner Inn (at Jenner), Fife's Resort (at Guerneville), and the Salt Point Lodge (down the road from Stillwater Cove Ranch). Nothing compares to Stillwater Cove Ranch! It is a rustic place, with no TVs, no telephones, and no other distractions. The ranch is across the road from a public beach and right in front of a redwood grove with hiking trails and an old school house. You can actually visit without a car, by taking Mendocino Transit; there's a general store within walking distance, and I do love having dinner at the restaurant attached to the Salt Point Lodge. Aside from being cheaper and friendlier than the other inns I have mentioned, Stillwater Cove Ranch has an exciting history. Julia Child used to offer cooking classes/retreats there! In the lodge you will find a scrapbook with pictures of these events, and historical information about the ranch itself. The property used to be a boarding school, and each room is named accordingly. My favorite is the Science Room, which has a fireplace, a large bed, a day bed, and picture windows. It's also fun to watch the peacocks strut around, right in front of your door. I highly recommend staying at Stillwater Cove. My only complaint is that it is almost impossible to get weekend reservations -- try going midweek if you can.

-- Paul Marcelin-Sampson
Santa Cruz, California