Vacation Rentals by Owner

So Relaxing

Guest: Andrea (SACRAMENTO)
Date of Stay: 05/04/12 Review Submitted: 05/10/12

My husband and I had a wonderful, relaxing time staying here with our two dogs last weekend. Our dogs loved the large fenced-in yard (which is lushly landscaped like an English garden) and private river access, where they went swimming several times a day. We humans loved sitting at the cute little clearing by the river, enjoying the birds, listening to the river lapping on the beach, watching the dogs splash around, and reading our books while drinking coffee or wine. We also loved roasting marshmallows at night for s'mores and seeing the full moon rising over the river and the trees. And the beds were sooo comfortable. I had to ask Vanessa what type of sheet is on the beds so that I can buy some for our own bed at home! At River Gardens, you feel like you're away from it all. The yard is very private and feels like your own little rural sanctuary. And if you feel like exploring, there is a neat beach nearby (Goat Rock Beach) where we saw seals and their pups. We also enjoyed Armstrong Woods State Park in Guerneville. There were many other nearby places we would have gone if we didn't have the dogs along, such as nearby wineries, the Blue Heron restaurant (just literally down the block!), etc. The location is a great base for exploring Sonoma County. Vanessa, the owner, was very kind and great to work with. We'll definitely be back!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

One Great Vacation!!

Guest: rick (sherman oaks ca)
Date of Stay: 07/28/11 Review Submitted: 08/09/11

The house was perfect. Being here was sooo relaxing, that for the first time my wife and I were not in a hurry to get back home! The gardens around the property reminded my wife of home in England. The wild flowers everywhere and the greenery, just great. We found out that our two dogs are Olympian swimmers! The fire pit at night and a glass or two of wine, well that's the way to end your day. The Gold Coast Bakery literally up the country lane had/has the best croissants and baked goods that my wife and I have EVER had! Each morning we walk down to the river and canoe out for a look around. The views from the decks that surround the house were beautiful. We already booked for next year and we cannot wait to return. Thank you Vanessa for sharing your home.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A beautiful and charming home

Guest: Bakes (San Jose, CA - USA)
Date of Stay: 07/11/11 Review Submitted: 07/26/11

We stayed at River Gardens July 11-14. It truly exceeded our expectations. Not only was the home beautifully decorated, but the grounds were stunning. We felt like we had come "home". Amazing that we felt like we were a part of the house immediately - we never wanted to leave - in fact, I was near tears on the day we had to depart. We have not been that relaxed in years! I took lots of digital pictures and loaded them onto my laptop so i can look at them at work when i feel stressed. I would recommend both River Gardens and Vanessa to anyone - and really will be returning as often as we can. I loved this house.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

An Oasis in the Redwoods

Guest: Shel & Jennifer (West Marin, California)
Date of Stay: 06/13/11 Review Submitted: 07/10/11

We have been visiting the Russian River area for many years, one of our very special places to visit is the Duncans Mills area. We really enjoy exploring the Sonoma area – all the wonderful beaches along the river, the beaches around Jenner, the beautiful redwoods, the varied wildlife and visiting all the wonderful small towns in the area. River Gardens is located in a quiet neighbourhood, surrounded by redwoods, ferns, roses and beautiful gardens. When you enter through the beautiful gates of Vanessa’s home – you feel at home – it is an oasis of peace and beauty. Our week’s stay went way too quickly and it was really hard when we had to leave. The house has everything you could ask for, it is really comfortable and clean, the kitchen is fully stocked with all that you could ever need, plenty of bath towels, comfy beds and the layout of the house is perfect. There are so many wonderful areas in the house to just relax and enjoy the view of the gardens, with walls of windows which keep the house bright and airy. All the decks, the patio and landscaped yard area have great seating areas to drink coffee in the morning, watch butterflies and birds, or a barbeque dinner in the evening. We watched a beautiful full moon rising right between the redwood trees – Incredibly beautiful. The patio fire pit was great - our family loved it!! We really appreciated that there was plenty of wood for the fire pit or for our nightly evenings in front of the fireplace while relaxing after a full day of fun. The kayaks were well used by our family exploring the river to Jenner and back. The tree swing was awesome, it is great to be a “kid” again!! We will definitely be back for another visit, until then we have wonderful memories of our River Gardens vacation. Thank you Vanessa for a wonderful stay in your home!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Peaceful and beautiful place

Guest: MarciaO (San Francisco)
Date of Stay: 05/28/11 Review Submitted: 06/09/11

My husband, two daughters (5 & 7) and I spent Memorial Day weekend at River Gardens. We loved it. We spent most of the time outdoors and even used the kayaks on the peaceful Russian River. There are no crowds in Dunkans Mills. Due to poor planning, we didn't have any groceries and we glad to find that in two minutes we could walk to an amazing cafe/bakery and restaurant. We'll be back.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway.

Wonderful retreat!

Guest: Beth (Ohio)
Date of Stay: 10/16/10 Review Submitted: 10/27/10

We stayed here for 2 nights in October to celebrate our anniversary. The house is very well maintained and in a beautiful setting. We enjoyed the canoe one afternoon and just enjoyed setting by the fire pit and by the river during the daytime. Although we didn't make any meals there. The kitchen is well equipped with everything you would need. It is a short drive to the Pacific from Duncan Mills. The only little issue we had was we walked down to the Blue Herron restaurant Sunday evening and on our way back 2 very big dogs (looked like Rottweilers) came charging us from from another house and came well into the gravel road we were walking down. . We yelled at them and stood up real tall and they eventually backed off. We knew enough to not run from them as they probably would have chased us. It was very scary situation as it is a dark and some what isolated area. This is in no way the owner of River gardens problemBut thought it might be worth mentioning as I had seen where others had reviewed that it was an easy walk to dinner or the bakery. Maybe drive down to the store. Other than that little scare we had a fantastic time at this great rental !

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

River Gardens is a wonderful experience

Guest: Bruce, Shirley and Vanna Girl (Yuba City, Ca)
Date of Stay: 07/17/10 Review Submitted: 07/30/10

We just returned from a week at River Gardens, and already thinking of planning another visit. Everything was just perfect, it was if we were just visiting our other home. The amenities were just amazing, every little detail to perfection. We spent many hours browsing the many books made available, and there was a perfect sunny or shady spot in which to relax in comfort all around the grounds. The river access was great, with kayaks and canoe. Flowers were abundant and hummingbirds everywhere, also many butterflies. We walked down to the bakery each morning for a delectable treat, ate at the Blue Heron and Cape Fear, both delicious. We visited Blind Beach with our dog and checked out surrounding towns like Monte Rio, even Occidental, where we went to the Friday night farmers market. Often times, places visited sight unseen disappoint, but it's seldom that they exceed expectations. River Gardens was so much more that we had hoped for. Bruce, Shirley and Vanna Girl

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Always Part of My Memory!

Guest: Kylie (Dallas, TX)
Date of Stay: 06/22/10 Review Submitted: 07/01/10

We arrived at River Gardens after having been staying at hotels for the US Open, so we were THRILLED to arrive at this lovely house, with the most perfect, and relaxing location! The house was as great in person as the pictures showd, and the guys were thrilled with the access to the river. With the great firepit outside, we ended up staying in and cooking dinner and roasting marshmellows over the fire every night. We enjoyed spending time at the wineries in Russian River, and had a special moment a few miles away on the beaches of the Sonoma Coast when my boyfriend proposed to me. This place will always hold a very special place in our hearst. Thanks for making our engagement even more special! Kylie

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A Blissful Retreat

Guest: SS (Placerville, CA)
Date of Stay: 03/25/10 Review Submitted: 04/20/10

We were fortunate enough to enjoy 4 days/3 nights at River Gardens. This delightful home was everything it was advertised to be, if not more. Vanessa was awesome in assisting with any information we needed, from everything to tips about the Duncans Mills/coastal area, as well as tiny tidbits of info about the house/property. River Gardens is impeccably maintained, with lots of special attention to charming details throughout the home/garden. It's secluded, offering privacy, and the feeling of being away from it all, yet so close to the quaint town of Duncans Mills and Jenner. We loved being right on the river, waking to enjoy our morning coffee while enjoying the quiet surroundings and watching the birds and otters. We enjoyed the use of the canoe for a nice trip down the river, the outdoor firepit was great on the chilly evenings, and the indoor fireplace made for a cozy evening when we felt like being indoors. The beds are furnished with beautiful linens and quilts, making for very comfy slumber. Aside from driving 10 minutes to Jenner to the ocean and eating dinner out a couple evenings, we never left "home". Everything we could possibly have needed/wanted was there, and it was so peaceful and relaxing, we didn't want to leave. All in all, everything about our trip to River Gardens was perfect, and was exactly what we needed to get away and enjoy each others company for a few days. Can't wait to go back!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Romantic, Relaxing, Dog Friendly Paradise

Guest: Cove Couple (Santa Monica, CA)
Date of Stay: 10/17/09 Review Submitted: 10/23/09

River Gardens was even better than we imagined. The home is filled with natural light, sky lights, and comfortable surroundings. Most importantly it was very clean and all amenities were in working order including the jacuzzi tub, wood burning fireplace, and full kitchen. This lovely home is surrounded by the most beautiful gardens, tall trees, and the most amazing river access. We loved walking to the river bank to enjoy our morning coffee as the fog settled in on the glassy, quiet, meandering river. We canoed down the river with our dog and saw many seals and even a couple of otters along the way. Our dog was in heaven and we never had to worry about him as the property is fully fenced. Blue herons and a variety of bird calls greeted us each morning. It was also the perfect spot for day trips to Bodega Bay, Healdsburg, and the Armstrong Redwoods State Park. A truly wonderful place that we look forward to visiting again. Thank you Vanessa!! We highly recommend.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A Perfect Location for a Celebration

Guest: Kaycee123 (Clarkston, MI)
Date of Stay: 09/23/09 Review Submitted: 10/09/09

My husband and I came to California to celebrate our 25th anniversary and spent 10 wonderful days at River Gardens. Not knowing anything about the area, I can't believe our luck in choosing this location! Everything about the house and the area far exceeded our expectations. We ventured out nearly every day (hiking, biking, visists to vineyards, etc.) but it was always such a treat to come back to such tranquility and comfort at the end of the day! The bakery in town became a daily morning habit and we enjoyed the live music and friendly people at the local bar/restaurant as well. It was very, very hard to leave and we will always hold very fond memories of our stay at River Gardens!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Todd and Joy Micholic (Waunakee, WI)
Date of Stay: 07/29/09 Review Submitted: 07/29/09

We stayed at River Gardens for only 3 days, with my parents, who are in their 70’s, prior to our son’s wedding outside of Santa Rosa. They could not believe it was even possible to find such a wonderful place to stay on the internet. They loved kayaking in a river that wasn’t too demanding. The privacy created by the trees, the inviting interior décor, the comfortable beds, the wonderful deck and fire pit, views of the hillside and river, the beautiful flowers and landscaping with humming birds and butterflies hovering here and there, made our stay so fantastic we really wanted to stay longer! Every detail of a comfortable retreat was thought of. Thank you, Thank you, we’ll be back!

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Guest: Larissa, Peter, & Caden (Ausitn, TX)
Date of Stay: 07/23/09 Review Submitted: 07/23/09

Thank you so much for the beautiful stay. We couldn't have asked for a better place to celebrate our son's first birthday and our second wedding anniversary. The home was so cozy, inviting, and peaceful. We really enjoyed the fireplace and firepit in the evenings (smores yum!). We also loved our coffee in the AM and wine in the PM down by the riverfront. Above all, the home offered us everything we needed to rest and relax. Thanks again!

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A true gem....

Guest: The valley family (Willows,ca.)
Date of Stay: 07/05/09 Review Submitted: 07/24/09

In early July, my family and I went to this property for a one week stay. We found it on-line six months earlier. This was our second time finding a vacation house on-line and we were hopeful that it would be as good as it looked. We live in the sacramento valley and in July, it's very HOT. So when we arrived to the temps being in the 80's we were pleased as punch. The property and house were exactly how the pictures showed it. The garden was my favorite!!! I could sit on the deck every morning/afternoon/evening enjoying the hummingbirds and a bunny that visited daily. Having the kayakks was a huge bonus. My husband and son enjoyed them everyday. Another fun treat was having a pleasant bakery right down the road. As for the house , I loved it!! It had evrything we needed. And the bathroom was beautiful and relaxing. The truth is we had a great time and my husband and I didn't want to go home....of course the kids had fun, but being teenagers, they were ready to get back to the "real world". Oh, one more thing. Having this property a dog-friendly place, meant the world to us. Our 100lb lab loved every minute. I would recommend this house for a family or a couple. We look forward to coming back.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Paul and Kelly (Petaluma, CA)
Date of Stay: 06/16/09 Review Submitted: 06/16/09

We got married in Jenner, CA last weekend and we were fortunate enough to have booked River Gardens for our private honeymoon retreat during the busy wedding weekend festivities. The house and surroundings were incredibly beautiful and peaceful and the owners made sure every detail was taken care from a high end furnishing and bedding to unlimited firewood and an outdoor fire pit, multiple kayaks and a wonderfully fenced yard for our dog. We could not have imagined staying anywhere else for that weekend as a newly married couple. It was everything we were hoping for and now plan to make a yearly anniversary trip to River Gardens to remember how truly special our mini- honeymoon & wedding weekend was for us.

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Guest: Sue Yarvin (University Park, MD)
Date of Stay: 05/25/09 Review Submitted: 05/25/09

Thank you again, Vanessa, for providing us with such a paradise. This is the second time we've ventured northward with my son, his wife, and their little Sibyl, now fifteen months. This has been a splendid getaway with our family. Sibyl adores the big swing under your huge laurel. She rides on our laps. The kayaks are such great fun amidst the wonderful scenery, and we saw not only the usual blue heron, cormorants, but also the seal and ten fluffy goslings. Eating on the spacious deck under the trees and in view of the river is a pleasure. Your place is bright and airy and clean. Now we are dreaming of next June. Many thanks.

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Guest: Karen & Andy1 (Novato, Ca)
Date of Stay: 04/28/09 Review Submitted: 04/28/09

We had a wonderful time at River Gardens! The house and grounds were beautiful - and our girls loved the kayaks, the swing and watching the hummingbirds! We will definitely be back. Thank you! Karen, Andy, Kali & Maddie

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What can we say that hasn't been said before...

Guest: Joan & Clan (Mountain View, CA)
Date of Stay: 10/10/08 Review Submitted: 10/21/08

We had a wonderful, fall weekend - frost on the ground, cold, cold mornings and evenings. Toasted marshmallows by the firepit at night..morning walks with the dog to the coffee shop in Duncans Mills for the best pastries ever...afternoon kayaking up and down the river, followed by a stroll across the road for some wine and cheese tasting. We didn't get in the car from when we arrived until when we had to (sadly) depart. Vanessa has a great knack for making a rental house feel like a home - lovely personal touches that add to the unbeatable location. We will definitely be back.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway.

Guest: Nancy40 (Kent, WA)
Date of Stay: 10/07/08 Review Submitted: 10/07/08

Wow! What a wonderful retreat. The River Gardens was a great place for us to take in some wine tasting and a day along the coast. Our only wish is that time could have slowed down, and that we would have planned a day just to hang our around the house and river. You have thought of everything, we wanted for nothing. Thank you for sharing your "Secret Garden".

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 09/01/08 Review Submitted: 09/21/08

Vanessa, My mom, husband two dogs and I had the best of times at the River Garden. Your home is so comfortable and relaxing in the perfect location. I am so thankful for the fenced in yard too - I didn't have to worry about the dogs at all - they ran around and had a great time. We even saw a couple seals and river otters. Love, Jennette

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/01/08 Review Submitted: 07/31/08

Thank you for a wonderful stay. You had everything we needed for 5 restful days. Our 2 year old enjoyed her first "kayat" ride, loved running around the yard, and enjoyed your selection of Winnie the Pooh DVD's. This is a great spot for a relaxing family vacation. We didn't want to leave!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/01/08 Review Submitted: 07/27/08

The house and grounds are beautiful. The location is very secluded, yet just a 5 minute walk to the world's best bakery and the charming little town. And the owner really goes out of her way to provide for every conceivable need -- from limitless firewood and homemade minnow nets to incredibly comfortable pillow-top beds and handcrafted soaps. Truly special.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/01/08 Review Submitted: 07/25/08

Thank you Jeff & Vanessa for allowing others to enjoy your oasis. No details were overlooked in making our stay enjoyable. The grounds were well kept and lush. The house was immaculate, bright & inviting. Our two girls enjoyed playing ping-pong, swinging from the big tree, and making smores in the fire pit (you even had glow-in-the-dark roasting sticks on hand!). We were so pleasantly surprised that you provided kayaks! We figured that we would have to find a place to rent them. Thank you for providing us with our fondest family memories this summer. We will definitely be returning and will be spreading the word about the best accommodations on the Russian River!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/01/08 Review Submitted: 07/07/08

We were thrilled when we arrived at River Gardens and saw how absolutely gorgeous it is. Everything was great - the comfortable beds, the firepit, ping pong, the swing and kayaks. There were numerous places to sit & take in the beautiful flowers & wildlife throughout the yard - we even laid down a blanket for a picnic on the grass. The dogs also thought they were in heaven - they had plenty of room to run and explore, got to wade in the river, and the house even had dog treats! Needless to say, we all hated to leave. River Gardens is definitely one of the best vacation homes around and we would highly recommend it.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 06/23/08 Review Submitted: 06/23/08

As we drove from the Bay Area to Duncan Mills, my husband and I joked about what we would find, as this is the first time I have ever booked anything based on the internet and based on clients’ comments alone (especially being that I have worked in the travel industry for 13 years and stayed mostly in 5 star hotels). We just wanted to find a getaway for our new rescue dog and our lab. This is the first place I have ever stayed in that was better than the pictures displayed on the internet! We truly didn't use our car for our entire stay. After the dogs tired from swimming in the morning, my husband and I would ride our bikes for a while and end up in the charming town of Duncan Mills (1 minute away from the house) and have lunch in town-then back at the beach with the dogs and kayaks. The General Store had great supplies for our stay so we did not need to go far. We enjoyed having dinner on the lovely deck. The house was immaculate and truly private. There is not one thing overlooked, from cooking supplies, to a wonderful library. I loved the kayaks at our disposal-and the canoe-albeit; we weren’t the best at canoeing. The “gatekeeper” of the property – Jackie- was so nice and helpful. We just loved her. You just know the second when you open the gate that you’ve found an oasis and want to come back time and time again. I am looking forward to returning with my family and my little niece and nephew as it’s great for kids. Thank you Vanessa and Jackie!Best,Erika and Lorenzo, Coco, and Cosmo (the doggies).P.S. you can have anyone email me for pictures or comments.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 06/01/08 Review Submitted: 06/29/08

What a wonderful paradise. Lovely gardens, private beach onto the river, kayaking, private picnics and a bright, cheery, comforable, tasteful house. I almost hate to give you a good review, as I don't want you to be too booked up for our return. Thank you, we had a very special time. Sherry Parker

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 06/01/08 Review Submitted: 06/22/08

As we drove from the Bay Area to Duncan Mills, my husband and I joked about what we would find, as this is the first time I have ever booked anything based on the internet and based on clients’ comments alone (especially being that I have worked in the travel industry for 13 years and stayed mostly in 5 star hotels). We just wanted to find a getaway for our new rescue dog and our lab. This is the first place I have ever stayed in that was better than the pictures displayed on the internet! We truly didn't use our car for our entire stay. After the dogs tired from swimming in the morning, my husband and I would ride our bikes for a while and end up in the charming town of Duncan Mills (1 minute away from the house) and have lunch in town-then back at the beach with the dogs and kayaks. The General Store had great supplies for our stay so we did not need to go far. We enjoyed having dinner on the lovely deck. The house was immaculate and truly private. There is not one thing overlooked, from cooking supplies, to a wonderful library. I loved the kayaks at our disposal-and the canoe-albeit; we weren’t the best at canoeing. The “gatekeeper” of the property – Jackie- was so nice and helpful. We just loved her. You just know the second when you open the gate that you’ve found an oasis and want to come back time and time again. I am looking forward to returning with my family and my little niece and nephew as it’s great for kids. Thank you Vanessa and Jackie! Best, Erika and Lorenzo, Coco, and Cosmo (the doggies). P.S. you can have anyone email me for pictures or comments.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 06/01/08 Review Submitted: 06/11/08

River Gardens will always be one of our most fond memories. We spent four fabulous days in a lovely, sweet cottage in one of nature's most serene settings. Our first of many vacations with our wonderful daughter,son in law, and dear baby grandson We will return,so he can canoe the river with us!!! Thank-you,Vanessa PS We saw a a mother seal and baby playing in the river while relaxing at the river's edge!!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 05/01/08 Review Submitted: 05/26/08

What a beautiful and relaxing place to spend our weekend! The grounds are so spectacular and fun filled...there is no good reason to ever leave...unless it's to take a stroll just up the road for a wonderful meal at Cape Fear. Some of our favorite things were the great beds, coffee on the deck in the morning, lounging down by the river, the fabulous firepit, the toasty fireplace and the wonderful hummingbirds. This is a nature lovers paradise...I even spotted a little brown bunny one morning! Thanks again for sharing your home with us...we will surely be back!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 05/01/08 Review Submitted: 05/23/08

River Gardens is the hidden jewel of Duncan Mills. It is the SECRET GARDEN we read of as children. A cozy house in a beautiful garden setting with river views and floral scents to take your breath away... Loads of parking room, easy to find, easy to love...hard to leave.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: tc (East Bay)
Date of Stay: 05/01/08 Review Submitted: 05/21/08

We have stayed in many homes in the Russian River area and none can compare with River Gardens. The location and views stand out most especially--they are are truly magical. The lay out of the house and deck in relation to all this natural beauty is also outstanding. And as many of the other guests have mentioned, the attention to detail inside the house is quite remarkable. Unlike many houses on the river, the inside is very cheerful and sunny without being too much so. We can't wait to return again with grandma and grandpa and our girls (4 and 7) and very appreciative dog (10)! Thank you so much for putting so much love into your vacation home and sharing it with us! Tamar

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 05/01/08 Review Submitted: 05/15/08

We loved the River Gardens! The home is so quaint, exceptionally clean and equipped with everything we could possibly need. The beds were super comfortable too! Our two daughters loved our daily canoe adventures on the river. The home is also so close to the ocean that we were able to canoe the river and explore the beaches of Jenner in the same day. The view of the river through the sunlit trees in the morning was such a nice way to begin our days. My husband and I relaxed in front of the warm fireplace each evening. It was a perfect place to vacation for our family. Thank you Vanessa (and Jackie & Mike)! Eileen, Marc, Juliette and Evelyn

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 04/01/08 Review Submitted: 04/29/08

When I was a kid, there was a TV program called The Magic Cottage. Everything was special and wondrous inside and out. That was how we felt at the real Magic Cottage that we discovered last week. We wish we were there again at this very moment. Margo, Bob, Logan the Dog

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 04/01/08 Review Submitted: 04/24/08

Our stay was perfect thanks to this property. The gardens were lush and no detail was missing from the house (from kid DVD's to dog treats to nice towels to board games and a "fire starter" log for those of us who who are challenged in the fire-starting department). Vanessa is super responsive and a breeze to work with. Thank you for everything! A few notes on Duncans Mills: -The General Store has a very limited selection of groceries. -Dinner as Cape Fear was splendid! -The coffee and scones at the coffee shop were fabulous!!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 04/01/08 Review Submitted: 04/21/08

We all thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The gardens are large and gorgeous. The swing and outdoor ping pong table were huge hits with the kids and the dog was in heaven. Access to the river is good and the kayaks and life vests got lots of use by everyone. The home is very clean and decorated nicely. The kitchen is well equiped and there's an outdoor gas grill so we preferred to eat in most meals and enjoy the late evening hours in the garden. Duncans Mills has the best bakery for morning pastries we've ever had. The short walk into town is quiet and very pretty. We'll be back and plan to make it an annual trip!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 04/01/08 Review Submitted: 04/07/08

We had a fantastic time. The doggies and kids loved the property and the good times to be had. The adults loved the attention to detail and the relaxation we experienced. The river access is good and property is huge so we all enjoyed the river and used the amenities provided (kayaks, life vests, etc.) Thanks to River Gardens! We'll be back for sure!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 02/01/08 Review Submitted: 02/23/08

Our stay at the River Gardens was wonderful. The beds were extremely comfortable and the linens very cozy. We loved how clean and well taken care of the house was and appreciated the attention to detail given to every aspect of the house. The yard is beautifully manicured and usable especially if you have kids. We will definitely be coming back!

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Scott Mc_HAC122133 (San Framcisco, CA)
Date of Stay: 01/01/08 Review Submitted: 01/22/08

This is a wonderful place to stay. We had our toddlers and our dogs, and they all had a great time. The yard is fenced in, so you don't need to worry as much about the dogs (or the toddlers!) running off. Beautiful scenery, a great location, I would definitely stay here again.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: KATHY AND FRANK_HAC115226 (SACRAMENTO, CA)
Date of Stay: 11/01/07 Review Submitted: 11/25/07

THIS HOME IS BEAUTIFUL, AND OH SO PEACEFUL. WE ENJOYED SITTING ON THE COMFORTABLE CHAIRS AROUND THE FIREPIT. TRUMAN(OUR LABRADOODLE) WAS VERY BUSY EXPLORING THE HUGE YARD. AND SWIMMING IN THE RIVER. WE LOVED THE LITTLE EXTRAS, FRESH FRUIT AND FLOWERS, A BOTTLE OF WINE, EXPENSIVE SHEETS ON THE BED, AND GREAT WOOLY TOWELS. WE WILL BE BACK!!!THANKS FOR SHARING YOUR LOVELY HOME. KATHY AND FRANK

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Guest: Mike (San Rafael, CA)
Date of Stay: 10/01/07 Review Submitted: 10/30/07

A wonderfully relaxing and comfortable house that makes the absolute perfect getaway place. From the beautiful garden and outdoor fire-pit to the serene river right at the bottom of the garden my whole family had a great time. Thank you very much for letting us stay in your house ... we will definitely be making this a regular!

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 09/16/07 Review Submitted: 09/15/07

Thank you so much! We had a wonderful time this weekend--we all enjoyed the yard and beach, especially Veikko. Veikko says thanks for the dog treats! We love your home and hope to return soon. Thanks so very much. Mike, Regina, and Veikko the dog San Francisco, CA

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Tammy_HAC107915 (San Francisco, CA)
Date of Stay: 09/01/07 Review Submitted: 09/24/07

One word describes our stay at River Gardens - PERFECT! We had a great time. Everything was beautiful and clean. We had a very quiet, relaxing weekend. We are already planning our next trip back to River Gardens. We were very sad to have to go back to "the city". Thank you! Deven, Tammy and Keith

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