St Orres Inn, Gualala

Wow - it seems there is a lot of nit-picking on the St. Orres and it is kind of hypocritical in that people want to "get away from it all" but "there is no microwave" or "there is no tea". No, the St. Orres isn't your home and it isn't the Four Seasons - it is the perfect place to let go and enjoy a slow pace of life. A pace of life where we may not get every little thing we want but we quickly forget that fact after we get up in the morning (to a breakfast with well deserved acclaim) and realize we have the luxury of the day being completely open to whatever our hearts desire. I realize people are spending hard earned money, but this place is not exactly designed as a timeshare with every little convenience included. I love this spot because you do get in touch with nature while being comfortable and well fed, you sleep to the sounds of the ocean, the food is phenominal with great local products (the chef/owner is also a certified forager so the mushrooms are amazing) and (sorry families) it is generally an adult place - not to many kids running around and screaming. I use this place regularly as my "first weekend getaway" date spot and it never fails to delight those I bring. If you do want to bring something (don't worry too much as there are store in Gualala) grab some wine and chesse (there usually is a fridge, silverware, etc.) and whatever you like to snack on - just don't plan on microwaving it. Why you are there pop over the hills into the Anderson Valley for some wine tasting - great little places in Philo, Navarro and Boonville.

My husband and I stayed in one of the original cabins on our honeymoon 19 years ago, and have returned for other anniversary trips. Almost every day upon our return from wandering the beaches or shops, we found deer in our meadow. The restaurant was excellent, with food as beautiful to see as it was delicious to eat. However, the best part was waiting anxiously in bed each morning, hearing the delivery truck come down the road, the discovery of the basket at the door with wonderful delicious breakfast goodies inside; quiches, muffins, granola, fresh squeezed juice, and more. Not knowing what delightful flavors awaited us each morning was a wonderful way to start our day in this magical, romantic place.

My experience at St. Orre's Inn is based on several visits over the last three years. From the beginning the ambiance and lure of the place has always attracted me. The added treat for me was the individual cottages where you can have your own privacy and even a little kitchen to make little snacks etc... There are a number of different cottages that range in both price and comfort levels. I have always been attracted to one of the oldest and quaintest ones which was a simple lumber cabin that has been helped into the 21st century with the addition of a bedroof-loft and a very quiant "outdoor" shower which is really wild. They also have individual rooms located in the main building over the very beautiful and elegant price-fix dinners served every evening. It is a great romantic getaway as well as an "I need a break from all this" getaway. Whale watching is nearby as are the local abalone beds and the little hamlet of Gualala is only two miles south if you crave society. The only drawback for me was that none of the kitchenettes had a microwave though they all have coffee/tee etc... handy. I just like a little popcorn or pop-over in the evening while I watch the fire or read a book.....or whatever. I even had one of the local cats come by and stop in for a litle petting and warming by the fireplace. Deer and wild turkey and at least one peacock greet you in the morning and throughout the day. If you are tired of the TV, the Phone and the rat race, this is the place to settle into for a few nights of R & R. Prices start at the $125.00 level and go up to about $300.00 per couple for a cupola cottage with a real Russian flavor. Every morning you get a not-too-light tap on the door opening to find a wonderful full breakfast of homemade breads, quiche/egg item, cerial, wonderful juice and local fruit. Just right. It's part of the room/cottage price. The price-fix dinners are around $40.00 each without alcohol and desert. They are wonderful and usually include something rather exotic. Wine list is small but excellent when I was there last. I give it an "A". Gary LuizI