Beautiful Sonoma County

Ever been on your way to an accommodation for the first time, and as you search for the place, you drive by hotels wishing that was where you were staying... Well, I could describe the Grape Leaf Inn this way, and I was utterly delighted it was our destination.

The exterior pictures on the website — although very nice — don't do it justice. It is a well-done renovated Victorian. The West Wing rooms are located in the addition to the original home.

I love everything about this place. Long story, but we got a chance to stay in 3 different rooms — the lowest price Pinot Noir, the 2-room Chardonnay Suite, and Sauvignon Blanc. Although a suite was a waste for us since the B&B has plenty of places to relax, it would be ideal for those who would like to stay tucked away in their own room. But having a taste of that room and then staying at the Sauvignon Blanc, the extra money for the other rooms are well worth it.

The breakfasts are the best I've had at a B&B. They serve a full course that leaves you stuffed but not at all that heavy feeling. The innkeepers were wonderful. Extremely helpful and accommodating. Kay helped us plan our 1 day wine tasting trip through the Russian River Valley — complete with who to talk to at each winery and where to grab food and what winery to picnic at. And if that wasn't enough — they have nightly wine tastings. Get to know a few more wines and mingle with the innkeepers and other guests.

This is my favorite B&B and I hope to return soon!

We stayed in the Buena Vista Room. This room is located in the upper veranda at the far corner. On their website (glenelly.com) they describe this room as having the best view. All upper rooms share the same walkway but it is this room whose view is unobstructed by the trees. The morning fog is breathtaking over the Sonoma Mountains.

Rooms are very clean and nicely decorated. The autumn nights can get quite cold, but the heater is turned on every night, keeping you quite warm. If that's not enough, the beds are extremely cozy and comfortable. You can get lost in a bed with so many blankets and pillows! Quaint bathroom with clawfoot tubs. Bathrobes in every room. Evenings can be spent on the veranda, down in the jacuzzi or common room complete with a fireplace. A truly relaxing B&B. But unlike some B&Bs, you can have total privacy due to separate room entrances.

This would be one of my favorite restaurants--I only wished we lived nearby. A very quaint and inviting atmosphere. The food was absolutely delicious and to my surprise not overly expensive (single entrees are in their $20s). But you will spend a little more because you must try the lobster bisque (if it's on the menu) and accompany your meal with wine. My husband had the Rosemary Rubbed Filet Mignon and I the Grilled Salmon with Tomato-Avocado Salsa. Everything was so full of flavor and made with the freshest ingredients.