Arrival/Check-In: We arrived to Gaige House + Ryokan for our one-night stay several hours before check-in and our room was not yet ready. We decided to explore the area. The luxury boutique property is located in Glen Ellen, California, right in the heart of Sonoma County. We went for a hike at a nearby park, had lunch and enjoyed a tasting at a winery all within a short drive of the property. By the time we were done, our room was ready.

Gaige House + Ryokan embraces traditional Japanese hospitality for a one-of-a-kind California wine country experience with modern Asian details. The helpful front desk attendant gave us a brief property tour as he brought us to our room, pointing out the pool, dining area where complimentary breakfast is served and the spa and meditation area. The property felt both secluded and welcoming.

Guest Quarters: We stayed in one of the Ryokan Zen Suites, Creekside, situated along the Calabazas Creek separate from the main building of the property. Lush greenery and bamboo among the suites offered added privacy.

Lining the hallway were two pairs each of Japanese geta slippers (for outdoor use) and zori slippers (for indoor use). The long hallway opened to the bedroom with a sitting space of two small couches and table, fireplace, wall desk and television. WiFi is complimentary.

In addition to a mini fridge and coffee press, there was a traditional cast iron Japanese tea set and a dedicated hot water spout for making tea. Guests of the suite also receive a complimentary bottle of saké and mochi ice cream. The room had access to a private patio with chairs overlooking the creek. There was a small interior Zen rock garden atrium between the bedroom and bathroom.

The spacious bathroom included a large granite soaking tub, as well as an open concept shower for two. The dark granite vanity boasted two separate sinks. Towels and robes were large and comfortable. There were also two traditional yukata robes in the closet.

We embraced the Zen vibes and spent most of our stay relax- ing in the suite.

Services/Amenities: Our visit was short, though we tried to take advantage of the property as much as possible during our stay.

Our room included complimentary breakfast, which we enjoyed on the patio just off the dining room. The spread included a variety of pastries, yogurt and fruit as well as a selection of hot items. There were to-go cups for hot beverages, so I took my unfinished coffee back to the room.

An on-site spa offers spa treatments as well as meditation classes and private yoga sessions. Unfortunately, our stay was too short to book a treatment. The pool is located next to the spa, complete with lounge chairs. We wanted to take a dip, but ran out of time before our next activity.

Gaige House + Ryokan is a unique and peaceful oasis in the heart of wine country.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

◆ Spend time enjoying the outdoor facilities on the property including the pool and patio.

◆ Glen Ellen boasts several award-winning restaurants located less than a mile from Gaige House.

◆ There are numerous nearby wineries. Check with the front desk for recommendations and discounted tasting passes. Or, stay on site and enjoy the property’s nightly wine and cheese tastings.

GAIGE HOUSE + RYOKAN 13540 Arnold Drive
Glen Ellen, California 95442 tel 707 935 0237 thegaigehouse.com