Applewood Inn & Restaurant, Guerneville

By far the most elegant option in the area, this sweet, expanded 1922 California Mission Revival mansion celebrates country living with 19 well-appointed rooms within three buildings and one of the area’s better restaurants. Though it’s a 2-minute drive to downtown, its location, tucked away on 6 acres of forested hillside, makes a visit to this Mediterranean-style compound feel like a completely different destination than the funky, bustling river town in which it resides. Add to that individually decorated rooms with antiques, lively colors, and benefits like down comforters, Italian linens, spa toiletries, and the included full breakfast and you’re not likely to mind that the hotel does indeed show its age in some areas (lack of central heating is a good example). You can opt for one of the Historic Belden House rooms with country charm or one of the “newer” rooms, which tend to be more modern and have fireplaces and small private decks or courtyards. Outside, you’ll find an outdoor pool (heated spring through fall), a hot tub (heated year-round), and an organic garden where tonight’s dinner might be growing right now. Keep in mind that it’s about a 15-minute drive on country roads to get to the winery-dense area of Dry Creek.