Vacation Rentals by Owner

Perfect piece of Paradise! Anonymous from Carmel Valley CA

Guest: Dree (Carmel Valley CA )
Date of Stay: 05/05/12 Review Submitted: 05/19/12

A last minute decision due to a friend's recommendation lead to an amazing weekend. We were going to stay in Yountville @ a luxury hotel were we have stayed before, and I am so glad we changed our minds. The photos reflect the beauty and tasteful decor but cannot convey the soul of the place, the loving attention to detail that make it feel like home away from home. I have traveled extensively, and multi-star luxury hotels do not offer the intimacy, privacy and personal care I have experienced. This was my first stay at a privately owned property, and I now prefer this option over hotels! The owners are delightful people, helpful in every way, all of which I expected; but they genuinely cared and went above and beyond to accommodate our needs. I treasured every minute of our magical weekend. We will come back again this coming fall! I can highly recommend this place!

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

Some positives and some negatives

Guest: Zack (San Francisco, CA)
Date of Stay: 04/20/12 Review Submitted: 04/23/12

I was a guest of someone who had rented this home over a beautiful April weekend and, while I was not the person who directly rented the home, it was such a contradiction of experiences that I felt compelled to write a review. First, the positives: the house is immaculate. It seems like the original construction is a little dated, but it has been updated very tastefully and comprehensively. The kitchen is modern and well appointed, the furniture is a little sparse, but keeps with the overall flavor and tone of the home, and it's obviously well loved. The beds are comfortable, the linens are luxurious, and the location couldn't be better. It's situated right near the main square with a quiet entrance and pushed back off the road far enough that you could be in your own little corner of Sonoma. The negatives: unfortunately I had no direct contact with the owners, but I learned of them vicariously through the multitude of contacts throughout the week prior and the week of the rental. From a penalty for manipulating the electronics in the house (apparently the owners have some difficulty in getting the TV to work consistently after guests have stayed) which was not an insignificant fee, to a pool that was freezing cold and had not been cleaned, to a litany of back and forth deciding how to get the key into our possession (a system which seems to have been solved in decades gone by with the advent of the Welcome Mat), we had entirely way too much contact with the owners. On a getaway, it would have been lovely to come, stay, and leave. Unfortunately, it felt more like staying at a lovely getaway home of a set of in-laws who want things done just so rather than the pricey weekend stay that it actually was. In fairness and disclosure, we apparently had a noise complaint, which is troublesome as 6 30-somethings lounging in the pool in the dark watching the stars and laughing periodically doesn't seem to be particularly noisome, but be that as it may, the voicemail that the owner left suggesting she didn't "want to have to drive down there" was reminiscent of a school marm wagging a disappointed finger at misbehaving children rather than notifying responsible adults of an overzealous neighbor and extending reasonable benefit of the doubt and customer service. It's a lovely home and, if you're looking for a base of operations or over the age of 55, it's probably going to be perfect. Otherwise, keep looking.

Owner response:At Inn Wine Country we accommodate people of all ages, most of whom are well educated, quite sophisticated, and extremely respectful. It is always our goal to make their visits an absolutely positive experience. While we very much appreciate the compliments offered by this guest of a guest, we are a bit puzzled by some of his comments. We have had no complaints about the electronics and don't charge any penalties for manipulating them. As we did have Magnolia install surround sound and program the remote to operate both television and sound, we ask that guests follow the instructions they provided. Guests receive these instructions in advance and we've had very few problems. We do not heat the pool unless requested as it would be a huge waste of energy and very expensive. We do charge $50 per day in the winter and $35 per day in high season for pool heating to help cover our costs. This guest did not opt to have the pool heated. One telephone call was exchanged to provide key pick up instructions and one follow up call regarding pool heating, which the guest did then expect. The pool was cleaned prior to arrival, however with towering, flowering trees around the house and pool, spring breezes create ongoing foliage debris. We have an automatic pool sweep; guests need to skim the pool occasionally, as we do not wish to impose on their privacy on a daily basis. Our contract states "no loud music" after 10 pm. Since this review appeared it has been changed to "music or noise." A distant neighbor called to complain about loud noise late into the night - only the third call we have received over a four year period. We were obliged to notify the guest. I left a message on her cell and asked her to return my call so that I would not need to personally visit and interrupt their privacy. The call was not intended to reprimand, but to inform the guests of the complaint. We feel that our thirty something guest's opinion is somewhat ageist. We hope our guests of all ages will continue to enjoy our beautiful property in its lovely setting, stroll to The Plaza, have wonderful intimate gatherings of family and friends, and make the most of their wine country experiences at Inn Wine Country. Dave and Pat Summers

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+.

Cozy Chalet Secluded in the Village

Guest: ChrisR (Alexandria, VA)
Date of Stay: 03/05/12 Review Submitted: 03/11/12

Wonderful, artistic, secluded with spectacular location hidden in the center of Sonoma village. Our family of five delighted in the style and privacy. Tastefully decorated, roomy, well furnished and comfortable. Walk to everything. Perfect base for exploring all the valleys. Lovely heated plunge pool, decked and fenced yard, private bridge, nice linens, gas fireplace, perfect inside and out. We will come again. Enjoyed warm days and cool nights, loved both. Owners friendly and easy to work with. Do not hesitate, book this.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Life Celebration

Guest: Joy (Lafayette, CA)
Date of Stay: 03/02/12 Review Submitted: 03/08/12

After finishing treatment for breast cancer 7 of my friends and I decided to take a weekend away in Sonoma to celebrate the beauty of life. Dave greeted us on our first day and let us know how to get in touch if needed. He also told us of some wineries to visit! We had incredible weather and fun times at the wineries in the area. We decided on Wine Country Inn because of it's proximity to the square. We were so delighted with the house. We had so much room to relax, the comforts were outstanding and that master bathroom was large and wonderful! We cooked dinner one night and found all the modern conveniences wonderful. The coffee maker was a hit for all of our early morning rises to see the sun come up over the back fence and trees.The home was decorated in good taste and quiet! We so enjoyed to stay that we are making this an annual trip each March!

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Perfect House for a Girls Weekend!

Guest: Jenell (Brooklyn Park, MN)
Date of Stay: 01/12/12 Review Submitted: 01/19/12

Truly an amazing house for a girls wine weekend! With a modern twist, the warmth of the house was so comfortable and welcoming - both inside and out. The house was very clean, the towels and linens were soft and the beds were so comfy and cozy. The 5 minute walk to the Plaza was the perfect distance - close enough to town but yet the house is settled back in the trees to provide privacy and quiet. The homeowner, Pat, did a wonderful job going above and beyond to help surprise our friend for her birthday. Pat was great to work with and very kind. We couldn't have asked for a more perfect house for a perfect girls weekend filled with tons of laughter, amazing wine and food and total relaxation. I highly recommend this house.

Recommended for:Girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Perfect!

Guest: Bonnie (Fremont, Ca)
Date of Stay: 11/23/11 Review Submitted: 12/05/11

This house was the perfect spot for our family of 7 to spend the 4 nights over the Thanksgiving weekend this year. I only wish we had been able to spend more time there. We loved the setting of the home which is very private & peaceful yet is still in the very close vicinity of the Plaza and all of the shopping, restaurants & activities there. The owner is very helpful & friendly & easy to communicate with.... I have no complaints and will certainly recommend Inn Wine Country to my friends & family. We will be keeping this great location in mind for any future trips to Sonoma!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

wedding week in AMAZING HOUSE

Guest: CrystalGo (NYC,NY)
Date of Stay: 05/17/11 Review Submitted: 05/26/11

I stayed in this AMAZING house in one of the most beautiful places on earth on my wedding week with our wedding party... the pictures do not do the house any justice it was beautiful and breath taking from the moment we drove across the little bridge to the little details and fully loaded kitchen. The rooms were comfortable and spacious...and the kitchen and living room setup was great for our love for cooking and entertaining. The house was also just a few blocks from the downtown area which made for a nice stroll to dinner and shopping. We hope to return with friends in the future!

Owner response:It was a pleasure to work with you during the planning of your wedding and a privilege to help make your week as special as you had envisioned it. Thank you very much for choosing Inn Wine Country. We hope you will come back to celebrate many anniversaries! We wish you the warmest of wishes. Dave and Pat Summers

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

Wonderful Stay!

Guest: family6 (WA)
Date of Stay: 04/18/11 Review Submitted: 05/24/11

Our family enjoyed this beautiful home for 10 days and we couldn't have found a better place! We were traveling with our 4 children (ages 3,3,7,10) and the house was very kid friendly! The location was ideal!!!! Every morning we'd walk to the plaza for coffee,pastries and a little play time at the park! We'd highly recommend this home to anyone!

Owner response:It was a pleasure to have this wonderful family enjoy our home. Having promoted the hospitality industry from more than 25 years, it is now a great joy to provide a special place for lovely people to enjoy our incredible part of the world. We are very fortunate. Dave and Pat Summers

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

Peaceful retreat in the city

Guest: Michael & Reese (Palo Alto, CA)
Date of Stay: 04/23/10 Review Submitted: 04/27/10

This is a terrific property. It is quiet and peaceful even though it is right in the city. Our group loved it. The beds are great, the house was clean, and the deck is quite nice. The kitchen, while not equipped for gourmet cooking, let us prepare some fantastic meals

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Very comfortable and convenient

Guest: Renee, Chris and Family (Maine)
Date of Stay: 04/11/10 Review Submitted: 07/18/10

We really enjoyed our time at the house in Sonoma. It was wonderfully convenient and comfortable (and immaculate). We loved the accommodations and the furnishings (my Finnish mother-in-law and husband loved the dining room, especially!!) My little boy really enjoyed the pool. It was nice to be so close to the Sonoma town square, yet easy to get out to the wineries. Thank you very much – it was a lovely break.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Wonderful all around!

Guest: Sharon in Sonoma (Colorado Springs, CO)
Date of Stay: 01/14/10 Review Submitted: 03/27/10

This was a fantastic place to stay. The space worked well and the location was great. The owners were very easy to work with as well.

Recommended for:Girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Michael & Adrienne Macksood (Fenton, Michigan)
Date of Stay: 09/21/09 Review Submitted: 09/21/09

My husband and I and one other couple recently stayed at the Inn Wine Country. We had a fabulous time - the home is located in the most desireable location, within walking distance of Sonoma Square, many great restaurants and Whole Foods Market. The house itself was great; very clean and modern with plenty of amenities. Beautiful outdoor dining area, grill and pool. Pat and Dave are wonderful to work with and very accomodating. We will definitely return to Sonoma and will stay at Inn Wine Country again.

Owner response:Thank you Mike and Adrienne! You were wonderful guests. It is great that we had the opportunity to meet you - and that you had a chance to briefly see Summers House as well. We look very much forward to your next visit. Dave and Pat Summers

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Guest: Richard & Jenny Daley (Bermuda)
Date of Stay: 09/14/09 Review Submitted: 09/14/09

My Wife and I along with 2 friends recently stayed at Pat & Dave's vacation home in Sonoma. We had an absolute wonderful time. We could not believe the privacy that this property provided given that it is located right off the main street in Sonoma. The house was more than spacious enough for our group, with all of the comforts we would expect in an executive rental. We are already looking forward to a return visit! Richard & Jenny Daley

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/24/09 Review Submitted: 07/24/09

We spent a fabulous week in this property. We were visiting the area and attending our son's wedding. The house is private, spacious, with wonderful outside space with barbeque and pool. The house is wonderfully equipted with everything one might need. It offered quiet relaxation with easy access (walking) to the square and activities in town, and to the vineyards. The house easily managed our family, (three couples) with plenty of space for all.I would recommend this property and we would visit again. Thank you Pat!

Owner response:We have had the pleasure of hosting a number guests visiting Sonoma to attend weddings this year. We are thrilled to be able to make their special time even more memorable. Inn Wine country provides a great setting for truly wonderful setting for together for family and friends. Dave and Pat Summers

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 11/12/08 Review Submitted: 11/12/08

I just returned from a 4 night stay at Inn Wine Country. It was absolutely fantastic, and we will definitely return for another stay. Hopefully, we can stay longer next time! The house is very clean and well kept. The owners were terrific and are willing to help or answers any questions you might have. I can't wait to begin planning my next trip!

Owner response:It is our pleasure to assist guests in any way we can. We look forward to welcoming new guests, as well as repeat guests who consider Inn Wine Country their annual getaway. Dave and Pat Summers Dave and Pat Summers

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 09/22/08 Review Submitted: 09/22/08

My wife and I and another couple rented this house for several weeks over the summer and have only positive things to say. The house is very comfortable and offers plenty of privacy for guests, located within a short walk from town, and beautifully appointed, Pat & her husband are very helpful and responsive. Highly recommended!

Owner response:Thank you. We hope you will return to visit many times in the future. We have found that one of the greatest pleasures of owning a vacation rental is getting to meet our fabulous guests! We strive, of course to offer the utmost privacy to each and every guest. Our goal is to be helpful but completely unobtrusive. Dave and Pat Summers

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Guest: Lisa97 (San Francisco, CA)
Date of Stay: 08/25/08 Review Submitted: 08/25/08

This house is perfect for a wine country visit! It is so close to everything, yet is one of the most peaceful environments I have been in. Pat and her husband will certainly look after everything you need and keep a lovely well appointed home away from home for the sonoma visitor. I initially did not want to add a comment here as I wanted to keep the knowledge of this property to myself! However that would be unfair as my group had a great time at this house and found it easily sleeps 6-8. I will definitely be back!

Owner response:Lisa and her group of friends were once again ideal guests. We feel extremely fortunate to own a fantastic house that attracts such quality visitors. Dave and Pat Summers

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/14/08 Review Submitted: 08/14/08

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Roomy, comfortable beds, well furnished & equipped. The weekly rate at first sounded high, but compared to the local hotel rates, it was a bargain, especially since we often ate in. Breakfast alone for four can be $50 or more each day. We hope to use it again on our next visit.

Owner response:Thank you for your kind words! We agree that Inn Wine country is a bargain. We take great pride in attention to detail and the location is unbeatable for those who wish to walk to The Plaza. Dave and Pat Summers

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Guest: Colleen Sheehan (Seattle, WA)
Date of Stay: 08/04/08 Review Submitted: 08/04/08

I stayed at this beautiful home with four girlfriends and we had the time of our lives!! I can't wait to return, not just to Sonoma, but to the rental. The house was extremely well maintained and the attention to detail is what made our stay so special. It was the little things like having plenty of corkscrews and towels for the pool readily available. We used the BBQ and kitchen to make a wonderful meal our first night and spent a whole day relaxing by the pool. You feel secluded as the home is very private. Yet, you are in the middle of town with all the tasting rooms, restraunts, and shopping just a few blocks away. I highly reccomend staying here. Just don't book the weekend we want to come back!!!

Owner response:Colleen and her friends were ideal guests. As new vacation rental owners were feel that we have been blessed. We look forward to hosting many women's groups in the future. Dave and Pat Summers

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Guest: Diana Tate (Sonoma, CA 95476)
Date of Stay: 06/16/08 Review Submitted: 06/16/08

We live out in the country and due to emergency construction on our home we needed a rental quick. The owners were very accomidating for our 1 week stay. The grounds were very serene, We actually felt like we were in Lake Tahoe, surrounded by redwood trees, deer and squirrel. This home is very kid friendly due to the fact it has hardwood floors and contemporary leather furnishings. The pool and the air conditioning were an added bonus considering it was a very hot Sonoma week. Plus the fact we could walk downtown for our weekly trip to the farmers market and not have to fight the usual parking madness. Overall, I highly recommend this home, it was very luxurious and comfortable for our family of six.

Owner response:Diana and family were our first guests. It was a pleasure to have them. Their children were delightful and well behaved. They left the house in perfect condition! Dave and Pat Summers

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