New Northern California destination to be on your radar screen: The Sonoma County town of Healdsburg, where vineyards dot the surrounding slopes, and where the historic plaza in the town’s center is bordered by eclectic shops, art galleries, dining venues and sunshine. Located right on the plaza, Hotel Healdsburg provides an elegant and soothing space both inside and out. A fabulous architectural element in the form of SCULPT Chairs by architect and wood sculptor Gregg Fleishman can be enjoyed in the lobby, stairwells and other public spaces. In the peaceful garden, a 60-foot pool and Jacuzzi can be found among olive and fig trees. Heavenly artisanal spaces include original artwork of the environment by local artist Wade Hoefer. Bespoke bedframes and furnishings made of salvaged bay laurel trees by Brit Epperson and Barret Karber with David Baker Architects grace guest spaces, and gorgeous hand-thrown ceramic cups and plates by artist Jered Nelson can be found in each guestroom’s coffee and tea space.

One of the indisputable highlights of this property is Charlie Palmer’s Dry Creek Kitchen. The renowned master chef and hotelier creates heady fare from the abundant local fresh ingredients, with a French thread running throughout — implemented by executive chef Scott Romano and his über-talented kitchen team. Sample sublime fare from Sonoma County and Northern California such as Caramelized Diver Scallops with fennel, petite spinach, curry reduction and butter vinaigrette; Laura Chenel’s Goat Cheese Cheesecake; or choose the Sonoma Neighbor Menu offered Monday–Thursday with delectable selections such as shrimp and grits, and carrot cake glacé. In the light-filled space of Spirit Bar, located in the lobby, enjoy small plates, single-barrel scotches and whiskeys, award-wining local wines and specialty cocktails with whimsical names including The Man With the Yellow Hat (Sauza Reposado tequila, yellow chartreuse, agave, lemon juice and egg white) and Careless Whisper (Giffard lychee-li liqueur, cherry bitters and sparkling wine).

While you’re there, set aside some spa time to enjoy a Sonoma-themed treatment at the hotel’s beautiful, intimate spa, where choices from the farm-to-spa menu include a Meyer Lemon Sage Massage with lemon oil and sage in a whipped soufflé cream; a Wine and Honey Wrap with Honey and organically farmed Sauvignon Blanc from Quivera Vineyards in Dry Creek Valley; or a Lavender Peppermint Restorative Massage incorporating a blend of techniques and lavender body butter sourced locally from Matanzas Creek Estate Lavender Garden. Before or after, step through the roses and olive trees for a dip in the pool, or — if your stay includes a Sunday — take part in a relaxing yoga session.