Vacation Rentals by Owner

Fantastic Vacation Getaway

Guest: maureen (tampa, florida)
Date of Stay: 05/05/12 Review Submitted: 05/12/12

I spent time with 2 best girlfriends and we had a wonderful time. Vista Serena is an inviting and beautiful home in a great location -actually, walking distance to get out for dinners and some fun in town. Plus a lovely, well equipped kitchen .with all the comforts of home and then some. All the beds were very comfortable ....we slept like babies. We used the fireplace several nights as well as the large and compfy hot tub which felt great after our many days of wine tasting and touring nearby towns. A very pleasant drive to the gorgeous Pacific coast - great place for a picnic all along the miles of coastline. We even visited Bodega Bay where the "Birds" were filmed. I highly recommend staying at Visa Serena, the name is truly representaive of the home. Also, the owner, Clare is such a pleasure to work with.

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

Location! Location!!

Guest: Brigitte Bordeaux (Tampa, Florida)
Date of Stay: 04/28/12 Review Submitted: 05/10/12

Vista Serena is within walking distance to main street of Guerneville, making it so enjoyable to go out for drinks and dinner at Chef Patrick’s. (be sure to make reservations). It offers the most comfortable mattresses I’ve ever experienced at a vacation rental, along with a well stocked kitchen that even Julia Child would appreciate. Bon Appétit! No stress accommodations… extremely easy to make a day trips to multiple boutique wineries. Pack a lunch enjoy a picnic at some of the most gorgeous scenic views that Sonoma is known for.

Recommended for:

Family Get Together

Guest: J and Family (California)
Date of Stay: 04/05/12 Review Submitted: 04/22/12

We so enjoyed staying in your home "Vista Serena." It is truly lovely and decorated beautifully! I think we forgot to sign your book. We especially loved your fireplace and the sculpture above it and the wonderful kitchen. The mattresses were first class, as we have a lot of bad backs, so much appreciated. We all slept like babies. Thanks for the nice bottle of wine, much enjoyed, and the hot tub was perfect. Would love to see it again when the grapes are out! Thanks again!

Owner response:So glad you all enjoyed your family time at "Vista Serena." It is always a better morning after a good night sleep. I love the hot tub too it just makes a perfect ending to a busy day. Thank you so much for giving my home a chance and hope you all come back next year...Clare

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

Wonderful weekend getaway

Guest: SV (San Francisco)
Date of Stay: 03/02/12 Review Submitted: 03/15/12

I stayed at Vista Serena for two nights with a group of 8 people. The house was perfect for needs, as we were up in Sonoma County for Barrel Tasting Weekend. The house is exactly as described in the review in terms of bedrooms, kitchen, bathrooms, and other amenities. It is also very close (10 minute walk) to downtown Guerneville. Clare, the owner, was an absolute pleasure to work with - she was timely with requests and very organized when it came to the reservation process. I highly recommend this property to others looking for a quiet weekend getaway for a large group!

Owner response:Love your positive review, high recommendation and the nice compliments. I try my very best to be organized and return your security ASAP. So happy you all had a relaxing time and thank you for taking such good care of my home. Hope to see you next year.Clare

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, sightseeing.

What a great house!

Guest: Craig (Minnesota)
Date of Stay: 12/24/11 Review Submitted: 01/04/12

This house is amazing! It was even more perfect than the description and pictures. The owner has thought of everything you could possibly need or want while vacationing. We arrived on Christmas Eve and the owner had left an lighted artificial Christmas tree out for us to decorate. We had the best time decorating the tree with family pictures and revisiting some of the great Christmas celebrations that we have had with our children and family. The location is very convenient to many Sonoma County wineries and is less than an hour away from many wineries in Napa. It was so great to come back to this wonderful house after a day of wine tasting and share a meal (and wine) with our family. One of the best holiday vacations our family has spent together. Thanks for your hospitality!

Owner response:Thank you so much for the compliment--So glad you all had a wonderful family Christmas at Vista Serena and I hope my home is part of your memories for next years tree trimming. Clare

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

VISTA SERENA IS AN ABSOLUTE

Guest: TaylorB (SF Bay area )
Date of Stay: 10/20/11 Review Submitted: 11/06/11

My friends and I went to this beautiful house 10/20-23, 2011. It’s an absolutely wonderful place. When we drove up through the vineyard, we were greeted by a large Autumn holiday tree decorated with lights and grape motif…. how very delightful. When we went inside, the whole house was tastefully decorated, yet inviting and comfortable. There were even Halloween decorations on the table. In the refrigerator, a gift bottle of Champagne … just the perfect thing after unpacking and going to sit out on the large deck. Everything we needed was there in the house and kitchen. Except for an easy stroll down to the River, we stayed in the house and on the deck all weekend. The upstairs “suite” was incredible… making this house very good for two groups of people to easily have privacy and also time together in the large great room (living room/dining/kitchen area). The kitchen is ready for the gourmet cook and we had several with us that totally enjoyed it. (… the furniture and beds were very comfortable and everything was clean and well organized) We loved the Cedar and Redwood trees around the house and the hot tub under the stars was heavenly. Clare was very easy to work with and answered any questions we had about the house and the area. Thank you Clare for sharing your home… we totally recommend it to others.

Owner response:Hi Taylor & Ladies, Thank you so much for the great review. So glad you all had a good time and enjoyed my home. Especially thank you for noticing the All Season Tree. I just finished decorating it and I am so happy you liked it. Hope to see you back again next year Clare

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

OUR THIRD STAY AT VISTA SERENA THE BEST

Guest: Debra Smith (Sylvania, Ohio)
Date of Stay: 10/01/11 Review Submitted: 11/07/11

Another wonderful time in Guerneville with friends to celebrate our birthdays together at Vista Serena. Being here 3 times I feel I came back to My Home away from home. The place looks more amazing with new motif and decorated for fall and everything has been so well cared for over the past 3 years. The landscape has continued to grow beautiful as we were greeted with a long row of passion flowers and autumn color grape vines. The 4th bedroom is new to us and makes it even better for private sleeping and a little alone time. This trip we discovered cheese in Point Reyes and oysters in Tomales Bay at The Marshall Store. Eating fresh and BBQ oysters on planks across wine barrels just inches from the bay was a joy. It was a great view and great weather. We had plenty of cooking time together at the Vista and as always we eat fabulous food and tried out new recipes. We found some new wineries and enjoyed grape stomping at a local winery. Made a day trip to Alexander and Anderson Valley and discovered Booneville. I did the new Zip Line outside of Occidental while my friends enjoyed local shopping. We all had a spa day with a cedar enzyme bath. There is always so much to do and we just enjoy hanging out together at this lovely home. Thank you again Clare for sharing your home.

Owner response:Hi Debra, Thank you for coming back to Vista Serena again. You really "Made memories" this trip with zipping and dipping. I have done the Spa but passed on the zip line. Just a little too much up in the air for me. But it does sound like fun. So glad you all had a great birthday and very happy that Vista Serena was part of your celebration. Enjoy the holidays..Clare

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

A Week I'll Always Remember

Guest: Dorene (Atlanta georgia)
Date of Stay: 09/28/11 Review Submitted: 11/09/11

Claire, your wonderful home was the perfect retreat for a week. Everything was exactly as you and the other reviewers described. There was so much to do from touring the quaint town to walking by the Russian River. And all of this so accessible. Of course, it was great to go wine tasting, eat great lunches out on the patio of the many restaurants we found, then ending our day in our pajamas making dinner in your gourmet kitchen and/or having a glass of wine while sitting in the hot tub on the outside balcony. Your extra touches such as framing instructions (how to operate the T.V.),the bowl of hard candy in the foyer, candles to light, all of this made it so homey and comfortable. Thanks again for considering the little things so that our stay in your home made us feel so welcome. Can't wait to return

Owner response:Hi, I am pleased that Vista Serena could be a little part of your "I'll Always Remember This Week." The Russian River area has so much to do and good eats and enjoy wine and just have a wonderful time with friends. I never tire of coming here. So glad you enjoyed some relaxation in the hot tub and aren't the stars a joy? Thank you for the compliments about my home and I do try to add little touches that would surprise guests. If I happen to be there before guests come I always leave a homemade baked good with the wine. Hope you come back. I lived in Atlanta and loved it...Clare

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

Fabulous!

Guest: Dianne9 (Plano, TX)
Date of Stay: 09/18/11 Review Submitted: 09/28/11

Great place to stay and the owner is delightful. Home is well taken care of, comfortable, and everything the owner says in her listing plus more. Kitchen is well equipped and the bedding very comfortable. Location of the home is fantastic for a week of touring wine country, the coast, and sighseeing. Lots of activities and great restaurants in the area. Wonderful place to stay. Five of us stayed here for one week and really enjoyed our time there. Thank you Claire.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, sightseeing.

Megan

Guest: Megan (San Francisco)
Date of Stay: 09/08/11 Review Submitted: 09/22/11

This place is so amazing! It is great for 2+ families to share with plenty of privacy. The best is the open kitchen, living room area where you can all hang out comfortably. I wish I could live here :). We went with my 2 boys (age 3 and age 1.5) as well as 2 other adults for a wedding. It is near downtown and the beach. Not only was the place perfect, but the owner Clare was just so sweet and accommodating. She was reachable for all my questions and was so easy to deal with. All over enjoyable experience!

Owner response:Hi Megan, Thank you so much for the kind words and I am so glad you had a great time. Would love to see the wedding pictures. So many families stay at Vista Serena for family weddings I should start an album. Clare

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

6 OUTSTANDING WOMEN ENJOY FUN AND VISTA SERENA

Guest: The Turtles (NYC)
Date of Stay: 08/28/11 Review Submitted: 09/09/11

If you are going to Sonoma wine country, you will enjoy staying at Vista Serena. Loving attention and forethought has been paid by the owner to all your comforts and needs. It's more like going to a friend's home than an ordinary rental. While there, we visited Kendall-Jackson,Korbel (beautiful and great tour), and Russian River Vineyards (Corks,also lots of fun ) wineries. And I don't even drink! We also went to Bodega Beach for the views, and Fort Ross, a historic Russian enclave. Randolph Redwood forest is magnificent. Sebastopol has lots of nice shops and a great restaurant Hole in the Wall, worth the short wait. They had a great lunch. We enjoyed the river for tubing and the hot tub on the beautiful deck. We are six women who have been renting homes all over the US each summer for a week for twenty-seven years. This one was outstanding! Debbie Berger for "The Turtles".

Owner response:Hi "THE TURTLES" Great name for a wonderful group of friends. I am glad you all enjoyed yourselves. Thank you so much for coming to Vista Serena and hope you will all come back. Clare

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

Wonderful Vacation At Great Home

Guest: CO Traveler (Steamboat Springs, CO)
Date of Stay: 08/22/11 Review Submitted: 08/29/11

My family and some friends stayed at Vista Serena in August 2011. We enjoyed the home tremendously. The house was very clean and comfortable. Everything we needed was here. I was surprised by how well stocked the kitchen was with dishes and pots and pans. I even found a cooler blanket in the closet, which was great. Having the 24 hour Safeway was very convenient because we were usually back at the house late at night after driving to Napa or Sonoma for the day. We ate at Tex Wasabi's in Santa Rosa which was only about 20 miles away. Take River Road rather than Highway 116 so you can make better time. Also Big John's Market in Healdsburg had a great selection of fresh meats and deli items as well as grocery store items. It was very peaceful to come back to the house and relax after a long day of touring.

Owner response:Hi "THE TURTLES" Great name for a wonderful group of friends. I am glad you all enjoyed yourselves. Thank you so much for coming to Vista Serena and hope you will all come back. Clare

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway.

I Would Give Vista Serena 6 Stars Out of 5 If It Were Allowed

Guest: Teacher's Pet (Chicago)
Date of Stay: 08/03/11 Review Submitted: 08/25/11

We were a group of 5 guys who stayed for a week beginning 8/3/11, at Vista Serena. What can I say about Vista Serena? It is in a word, “perfect!”; “perfect” for those who just wanted to unwind with a quiet nap in one of the quiet, comfortable bedrooms, or a restful dip in the hot tub; “perfect!” for the chefs in the house who found the incredibly well-stocked and outfitted kitchen the perfect place to put together fabulous spreads for the rest of us, who were more talented at consumption than production; “perfect!” for the adventurous types who couldn’t wait to take canoe to the Russian River, go on a challenging run or bike ride, or explore Armstrong Woods, all of which are out the door and steps away; “perfect!” for the chow-hounds, upscale diners, wine tasters, shoppers, coffee drinkers and trinket hounds who loved the great proximity to downtown Guerneville’s array of shops, coffee spots, greasy spoons and fine dining establishments as well as to wineries (and winery tours!) galore. In other words, all in our party were sad to leave and felt right at home in every way during our fun-filled week in Guerneville! This is truly a home where, once inside, guests feel immediately welcomed and indeed compelled by the home’s “gemuetlichkeit” to relax and just enjoy as they please. We all highly recommend it for diverse groups of friends (4 different sleeping spaces on 2 floors and bathrooms on both) and extended families who want to enjoy all that the Guerneville area as to offer. We are hopeful we can return next summer and are talking about it! Clare, a sincere and heartfelt “thanks” from each and every one of us for a FANTASTIC week!

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

HOME ABSOLUTELY PERFECT

Guest: TV (San Francisco)
Date of Stay: 07/21/11 Review Submitted: 07/27/11

Clare, I would like to thank you so much for opening up your home for us. We had an AMAZING time, and the house was absolutely perfect!! I have stayed at a couple of other homes in Guernville and none of them felt as close to home as yours. The thing that I liked in particular was the fact that the group felt "together". We all were able to eat and play games around the dinning table, and sit and watch movies together. We all enjoyed the close access to the Russian River and went tubing.

Owner response:HI TV , Thank you so much and sounds like you all enjoyed yourselves at Vista Serena and had a great time getting together for a short holiday break from the city. Glad you found my home very "people friendly" for a group and close to all the Russian River happenings. I love the location too. Leave the car and walk every where.

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

Beautiful Russian River Location

Guest: Recharged! (Campbell, Calif)
Date of Stay: 07/18/11 Review Submitted: 07/25/11

We really enjoyed our stay at Vista Serena as this home has all the amenities you can ask for. The kitchen, the bedding, and the entertainment options are top notch....perfect for our family of 5 (plus our pooch). This location has the added convenience of being a short walk into town. Venture out by car and within 15 minutes we were wine tasting, hiking in the redwoods, or exploring the many river towns. Being on the river in a canoe or kayak is a lot of fun but this trip we really enjoyed being IN the river at the nearby regional beaches where the river is narrower and shallow enough to wade around in inner tubes or rafts. A great option with warmer weather. If you have a dog, they are allowed at the regional county beaches (Steelhead and Sunset). We hope to stay again as Clare is a very special homeowner who attends to every detail.

Owner response:Hello Recharged, Couldn't we all use a little "recharge" every few months. It is so nice to have the Russian River close to those in Northern California and a quick plane ride from the South. Looks like you all did everything and found the more hidden beaches. I appreciate your winery recommendations and plan to give them a try in the fall. The Vista is always ready for a "RECHARGE."

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

PERFECT FOR A FAMILY GATHERING

Guest: MM (Pennsylvania)
Date of Stay: 06/14/11 Review Submitted: 06/25/11

We had a wonderful time at your home. The location is great and the house is very comfortable and well-stocked for vacationers; you've done a great job with providing not only all the necessary items, but also really good information and instructions on where things are and how to use them. We were a family with a 20 month old to an 81 year old and we all enjoyed being together for a trip to the coast (so close) dinners in the great room and watching the redwoods from the deck. Thanks again for providing such a great vacation home. If we decide to do a family trip out there again, you can be sure we'll look up Vista Serena as our first choice.

Owner response:Thank you so much for the review. It always pleases me when folks have a great time and families have the opportunity to get together at Vista Serena. It is a lovely area and I am blessed to be part of it. Clare

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

IT DOESN'T GET ANY BETTER

Guest: Sue (Massachusetts)
Date of Stay: 06/02/11 Review Submitted: 06/09/11

Clare, We cannot thank you enough! Your home was absolutely perfect in every way. The location was 2-3 miles from our son's wedding site, shopping was close by so many wonderful things, too many to mention. The weather did not cooperate but your home is so beautiful and clean and open staying inside was great too. If you are going to visit Guerneville and you would like to get some local souveneirs I strongly suggest that you visit the Guerneville 5 &10 cent store they will have anything you can think of and many things you would not think of, it is the blast from the past. We rented this home sight unseen and I would recommend it to everyone it is the best thing we could have done, just beautiful! Sue

Owner response:Hi Sue, Thank you for such a great review. And you will be remembered too as the neatest guest ever according to my manager. He does not give out compliments easily. So glad you all enjoyed Guerneville and my home-Clare

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

Family visit

Guest: Anna (California)
Date of Stay: 03/25/11 Review Submitted: 04/06/11

We spend a few days in Vista Serena with our family from Ohio. Despite the terrible weather we had a wonderful time. The house was spacious and very well equipped. We never saw our preteen girls, who enjoyed the upstairs quarter very much. Our son (college student) cook the best pasta dish ever, in the very well organized kitchen. During short time between the rain we could walk to coffee place and enjoyed town. We even spend some time on the beach. The next door turkey was a big hit! The contact with the owner was very easy and pleasant. We would definitely recommend this property to our friends, we will be glad to return there again. Thank you Clare, Anna from California.

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

VISTA SERENA and BARREL TASTING LOTS OF FUN

Guest: LC (San Francisco, CA)
Date of Stay: 03/11/11 Review Submitted: 04/19/11

Thank you so much for a wonderful weekend at your lovely home. Barrel Tasting was a good time and we enjoyed the "future wines." Thanks for all of the easy to find instructions, making this stay absolutely enjoyable and worry free! What a treat, I can understand why you have so many repeat guests, I certainly would recommend your home as well try to return in the summer!

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

A Family Retreat

Guest: Claire (West Simsbury, CT)
Date of Stay: 01/10/11 Review Submitted: 01/27/11

We were looking for a place to relax and explore in the wine country near where our oldest son had worked for a couple of years. Guerneville it was! Little did we know that in looking for a place to rent we would find such a wonderful home. It was PERFECTLY suited to our needs. PLENTY of space, a master retreat upstairs and a great gathering space for young adults with bedrooms, a hot tub and a fireplace on the main level. The kitchen was well- appointed and easy to use, with a welcoming bottle of wine. The owner left clear instructions and information about fun things to do in the area for us to read, and we found two really incredible restaurants right in town - Chez Patrick and BOON. We hope for a return trip, and encourage others to enjoy for themselves the warmth and ease of this gracious vacation home.

Owner response:Hi Claire--Love your name. Thank you for the kind words and so glad you all had a great time here. I am sure it was a nice break from the snow back home. Clare

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

Family Get-Away

Guest: Gretchen (Pittsburgh)
Date of Stay: 11/20/10 Review Submitted: 12/11/10

Great clean and well maintained home. After putting away some of your charming decor (from little hands), our children loved playing on your floor, climbing the steps and sleeping in the adorable first floor room. We absolutely enjoyed our Thanksgiving holiday your home - it could not have been more perfect. Thank you Clare for being so helpful.

Owner response:Hi Gretchen, It was great having you at Vista Serena. So happy the children enjoyed themselves. Thanksgiving is such a great holiday to be together as a family. Clare

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, sightseeing.

Perfect Setting for My 50th B-Day Celebration

Guest: Lindsey (San Francisco, CA)
Date of Stay: 10/14/10 Review Submitted: 10/19/10

Still basking in the glow of the perfect long weekend getaway/celebration at Vista Serena. The house was everything we'd hoped it would be, and more. You assume that the photos are going to make everything seem better than the real thing, but not the case here. When we walked in we were totally thrilled with everything. Over the four days we enjoyed the house as a romantic & quiet retreat, for a small dinner gathering, and for a spectacular gourmet bbq party for 20 of our dearest friends (and a few kids). In every case it was just perfect. A wonderful blend of warm & cozy and open, sunny & spacious; tastefully furnished; super-comfortable couches, beds, etc., and the perfect kitchen to cook in without feeling separate from the action. Thanks, Clare, for thinking of everything to make our stay at Vista Serena a fantastic and beautiful memory. Cannot wait to come back!

Owner response:Lindsey - Thank you for the lovely review. Your dinner menu that you left in the Vista Guest Book is fabulous. I read it to several friends. I am pleased the celebration went so well. I just added a bread maker to the kitchen. Keep on cooking--Clare

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

A fabulous retreat with something for everyone.

Guest: wendy. (san francisco.)
Date of Stay: 09/19/10 Review Submitted: 11/09/10

Vista Serena turned out to be the perfect setting to bring our extended family too. Our group included adventurer's of all age's and there was plenty to please all! from lazy morning's having breakfast on the deck, to day trips to the many beautiful local areas including Jenner and Bodega Bay with breath taking views of the ocean and wildlife. Armstrong woods should not be missed, it's the perfect place for a picnic. we often finished our day with a visit to the local playground and tennis courts across the street which was alot of fun. then we'd come full circle and go back on deck for a delicious bbq and a dip in the fabulous hot tub!! clare, the owner, was very helpful and prompt with any concerns we had, especially housing a couple of "extra" lttle family members! Thankyou so much for making our stay in your lovely home so memorable.

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

Great property

Guest: Music lover (San Jose)
Date of Stay: 09/10/10 Review Submitted: 09/20/10

We had a wonderful time and found the property just as described. Everything you need is included and extremely clean and comfortable. The house is within walking distance to the river and down town which makes it a great place to attend festivals. The owner is extremely easy to deal with and goes above and beyond to make sure your stay is awesome.

Owner response:Hi Music Lovers So glad you enjoyed both the Vista and the Music. It is nice to sit on the deck and hear the jazz music from Johnson Beach. They had some great names this year. Hope to see you again. Thanks for coming

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

Awesome Sonoma County Getaway

Guest: Brian, Cyndi & Family (Campbell, CA)
Date of Stay: 07/30/10 Review Submitted: 08/12/10

Just a few minutes from Johnson's Beach, Vista Serena was the perfect getaway this summer for our family of 5 (and our Aussie). Everything about the property makes it truly a retreat from the grind of city life. We spent the first night in preparation for competition in the 2010 full Vineman Triathlon. The balance of our stay was spent exploring Guerneville (just a walk across the river), a stroll through Armstrong Woods, and a drive to/exploring Bodega Bay. The Pacific Coast Air Museum in Windsor is a must-see for you aviation enthusiasts. The static military aircraft displays are second to none on the west coast. Windsor also has a quaint downtown area - the candy shop is not to be missed. The accomodations were perfect, from the spacious living area, to the kitchen, well-appointed bedrooms - and, not to forget the spa (a welcome treat after a triathlon). We would definitely choose Vista Serena should our future travels bring us back to Guerneville. No disappointments here. Clare is a delightful owner who honestly cares about her property. She is very responsive and pleasant to work with. But more importantly, she truly cares about the comfort of Vista Serena's guests.

Owner response:Hi Brian, Cyndi and Family Thank you so much for such an awesome review. I am happy you all enjoyed yourselves. Thank you for taking such good care of the Vista

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, sightseeing.

Great location in Guerneville

Guest: Kent (Carlsbad, California)
Date of Stay: 07/22/10 Review Submitted: 07/01/11

I booked the Vista Serena home for me and two other families for a wedding in June 2011. The owner Clare provided excellent customer service the whole time, with ample documentation and guidance along the way to make our stay the most enjoyable. The house itself is in a prime location: a short walk across a picturesque pedestrian bridge to the downtown area, across the street from a brand new children's playground, and a brief float down the river from a large recreational beach area with kayaks, swimming, & draft beer on tap. All while being on a quiet street at the end of a long driveway. The house comes stocked with all the amenities we needed, plenty of dishes and silverware, appliances, TV, stereo, etc. Hot water & electricity were all prompt and reliable. Clare keeps the hot tub clean and ready to use at all times. Had a great time and would recommend the house to anyone.

Owner response:WOW --What a wonderful and well written review. I never asked your profession but you definitely have skills in the writing area. So glad you all enjoyed and I know folks looking for a place to holiday in the Russian River will appreciate the details of your review...Clare

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

GREAT PLACE FOR A FAMILY REUNION

Guest: Pat and Family (Napa, CA)
Date of Stay: 06/27/10 Review Submitted: 07/08/10

The whole family had a great time at "Clare's House", as we called it. The weather was quite warm for "the River" but the abundance of fans handled that. We range in age from 7 to 70 and we did everything that could be done with kids. Kayaking on the river, sandcastles at Shell Beach, hiking and picnicing at Armstrong Woods, dinner in Occidental, pee wee golf, and playing board games at your large accomodating dining table. Thanks again

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

VISTA SERENA In The MIDDLE Of The WINERIES Made Our 30th ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL

Guest: Lori and dan (Torrence, California)
Date of Stay: 06/13/10 Review Submitted: 06/30/10

Clare, thank you for putting so much hospitality into your home for us guests! I could tell you are a nurse because of the thoughtful little care items you had like the shower bench, lots of kleenex everywhere, and the really clean bedding! We went up to wine country for our 30th anniversary and had such a fun time. We live in California, but had not spent any time in Napa/Sonoma before, and were so pleasantly surprised at how beautiful it is. To see rolling fields of vineyards right up against the giant redwood trees was so gorgeous. The house is in a great location - you can be right in the middle of wineries, or in Armstrong Redwoods State Park, or on the northern CA coast in a matter of minutes. We bbq'd on the deck every night, watched movies, sat and stared at millions of stars, and took little side trips everyday to taste wine or just see the scenery. It was so relaxing and out of the busyness of life, that we didn't want to leave. Thanks again Clare for helping to make our anniversary special!

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

Perfect Gals' Getaway Weekend

Guest: Monkeymoon (San Francisco)
Date of Stay: 05/06/10 Review Submitted: 05/12/10

Thank you Clare! Everything was great. A perfect spot for our gals' weekend. Close to excellent wineries and walking distance to town for dining at night. We had two great meals at Boon. We also enjoyed cooking in the Vista's kitchen. So well designed for a group to work and play together. Your home is definitely in a wonderful location. And you have taken special care to make it so inviting.

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

VISTA SERENA WE ENJOY YEAR AFTER YEAR

Guest: Vickie and Dan (Alexandria, Virginia)
Date of Stay: 03/25/10 Review Submitted: 04/11/10

This was our third stay at Vista Serena and it gets better and better each year. The cleanliness, extra attention to details and overall comfort has been consistent year after year. I look forward to seeing the new additions to the “décor” each year. We appreciate the quality bed linens and extra large bath towels and the well stocked kitchen. To our enjoyment Guerneville restaurants have been on the rise with a new variety of more unique cuisine. It has always been so nice to be in a vacation home where you can easily walk to town and the beach and the river right there too. As long as the grapes keep growing and the river keeps flowing we will be back again next year to stay at Vista Serena. Thanks Clare for being such an amazing host and making our home away from home so special.

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

5 Stars for Vista Serena and te Russian River Area

Guest: Sandy and Dan (Versailles, Kentucky)
Date of Stay: 03/09/10 Review Submitted: 03/29/10

Dan and I really enjoyed our stay at Vista Serena during the second week of barrel tasting. We could not have had a more perfect location as we traveled here and there in search of the perfect wine! The accomodations were excellent and the bed was wonderfully comfortable (just like home). The hot tub was great after a day of walking and shopping. I even enjoyed it in the rain one night! I would definitely recommend your property to anyone who wanted to spend time deep in Sonoma wine country. 5 stars!

Owner response:Thank you Sandy and Dan for the 5 stars and all the nice compliments. It sounds like the Russian River has won over two new souls with it's charm and amazing beauty. The Vista will be there waiting for your return. Clare

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

Guest: Linda Broudy (Waccabuc, NY)
Date of Stay: 03/05/10 Review Submitted: 03/05/10

Feb 2010 - Every other comment on this website regarding the owner and her property are absolutely correct. The home is warm and inviting, spotlessly maintained and the owner has gone all-out to think of everything a tenant might need, making it truly a home-away from home. I cannot recommend it highly enough!

Owner response:Thank you Linda for taking the time to write and for taking such good care of the Vista. I appreciate your positive comments about my home. I hope you all have a chance to come back in the future and enjoy a little more of the Russian River area...Clare

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Guest: Leslie Harbaugh (Citrus Heights, California)
Date of Stay: 01/30/10 Review Submitted: 01/30/10

Our stay at Vista Serena was Jan. 2010 Vista Serena was wonderful. We would highly recommend it for anyonetraveling to the Guerneville area. It was our home base for a wonderfulWinter Wineland event on the Northern Sonoma County "Wine Road" and itworked out perfectly. We slept 7 very comfortably and had plenty of room tostretch out and enjoy ourselves. There are all the amenities you could wantin a rental home - and the furnishings and décor are far above many othervacation rentals I've seen. Very top notch! The beds were comfy, thekitchen was extremely well stocked and Clare made sure that even the smallextras were taken care of (games, pet blankets, dvds, umbrellas, etc). Thehome itself is beautifully designed and we enjoyed the hot tub on the deck(even in the rain!) Vista Serena is also a short walk across the river todowntown Guerneville - which makes it a great location! Restaurants, coffeeshops and stores were all within easy walking distance. Perfect! Weespecially enjoyed the Coffee Bazaar for tasty pastries and wonderfulcoffee. My only regret is that we didn't stay longer. We will be back!!

Owner response:Thank you Leslie for the wonderful compliments. It is my goal to have folks come into Vista Serena and go WOW. I keep trying to add something new when I think of items that someone may need and will make their holiday more enjoyable. It makes me feel good to know guests can see and feel that little extra thoughtfulness. Your comments are most appreciated. Hope you can stay longer because there is so much to see and do in this area. Clare

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Guest: Renee & Ryan (-)
Date of Stay: 01/01/10 Review Submitted: 01/01/10

This is a beautiful home with every amenity. Clare is a wonderful owner/host and the location is great! We loved hanging out with our family and enjoyed the hot tub as much as the fireplace and couch!! We drove to the Coast on Xmas day (16 miles west) and it was gorgeous! Then we wandered the wineries on Westside Road - so many! LOVED Healdsburg and Santa Rosa and Sonoma. We shall definitely return to Vista Serena!

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Guest: Terry Kurtz (Las Vegas, Nevada)
Date of Stay: 12/28/09 Review Submitted: 12/28/09

Your search is over! This house is a real find! More than a house, it is a home. The owner has gone out of her way to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.(complete with fresh flowers) The decor is cozy, the jacuzzi great, good size rooms;plenty of space. Great instructions for use of the TV, appliances, jacuzzi, etc. and local maps. She even has a drawer for "items forgotten"(shampoo, toothpaste, etc). The location is great and easy to find. We were 5 separate adults( 4 women and one guy) and all found the sleeping arrangements workable. You cannot go wrong with this one!

Owner response:So glad you all had wonderful time at the annual "Wine and Dine" week end in the Russian River Valley. Thank you so much for the compliments about my home. I love the Vista too. Look forward to your return.--- Clare

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Christmas Visit

Guest: Birdie (Essex Fells, NJ, USA)
Date of Stay: 12/23/09 Review Submitted: 01/07/11

We rented this house over Christmas 2010 for our family which included 5 adults and one 2-year old, and one dog. The house is extremely well-equipped with everything you could possibly want or need. It was clean and has been well cared for. The thoughtfulness which went into one having a dog there was extraordinary! Towels for muddy feet, blankets for the furniture, toys--wonderful. The owner left a lighted Christmas tree which we used and made us feel almost at home. I would highly recommend this property to anyone looking to rent in this area.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, pet owners, sightseeing.

Guest: Carol and Bob Picozzi (Cheshire, CT)
Date of Stay: 09/09/09 Review Submitted: 09/09/09

Vista Serena is just what its name suggests, a comfortable home in a relaxing setting. It is a perfect place to launch a winery tour or to embark on the 20-minute trip to the California coast with the spectacular views of Bodega Bay. We spent a day in San Francisco, taking in a Giants game, shopping, and dining in one of the city's best restaurants. Other days we found the giant redwoods, the Russian River, quaint Guerneville village, and dining experiences in Sonoma and Napa. The evenings we decided to dine in, we found the well-equipped kitchen more than up to the challenge of preparing a dinner to entertain more than a dozen guests staying at Vista Serena and nearby. The great room met our very demanding standards with comfortable furniture where we could curl up with a good book, watch TV, or enjoy the company of friends. Thank you for creating a setting for a memorable vacation!

Owner response:So glad you and your family enjoyed the Vista and all the surrounding entertainment. I too am particle to the great room and kitchen for a family get together. That's what it all about "Making Memories Together" Hope to see you again. Clare Hendrick

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Guest: Robin47 (New York City)
Date of Stay: 09/03/09 Review Submitted: 09/03/09

My daughter, son-in-law and their 15-month-old baby stayed at Vista Serena with me. What a wonderful time we had. The owner has thought of everything to make visitors comfortable and even had a high chair. The house is beautifully furnished and near all kinds of fun and convenient places to walk including a playground, miniature golf and the village of Guerneville. The house is accessible with only a few stairs necessary if you come in the front entrance. The master bedroom suite is huge and the carpeted stairs were great fun for Alex to crawl up and down. We hope to go back soon!

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Guest: Robin Culter
Date of Stay: 09/03/09 Review Submitted: 09/02/09

Thank you Robin and I am so glad your family enjoyed Vista Serena. It was fun e mailing back and forth when you were getting ready for your trip. Thank you for taking such good care of my home. Clare

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Guest: Trudy Hart (Philadelphia, PA)
Date of Stay: 06/06/09 Review Submitted: 06/06/09

What a wonderful fun vacation. We could not have asked for a more spotless home. The Vista was every bit as spacious as you said. Our 2 families had plenty of room to be together and the kids found their play area upstairs as we adults enjoyed our time together in the great room. We walked evrywhere. The guys enjoyed the tennis at the park and we walked with the kids to the beach. The river was just warm enough for us East Coasters. It was so nice to have the coast so close. We took a ride up to Mendocina and picnic over the blue Pacific. It reminds me of Big Sur and that drive. Enjoyed the wineries of course and left with a few bottles to take home. Thanks for taking the time to make your home so comfortable. We appreciated the new furniture, well equiped kitchen and the quality bedding. You really notice those things. The stars were out each night and the hot tub was well appreciated by all of us. Sure hope to see the Vista again next year. Maybe we can come when your grapes are ripe for eating.

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Guest: Mary Ellen Barasch (Sunnyvale, California)
Date of Stay: 05/05/09 Review Submitted: 05/05/09

April 19-22: Relaxing and fun days at Vista Serena. We live in the Bay Area and Vista has everything on our list that equals the perfect get-away. The house is new and comfortably furnished with every convenience imaginable. The kitchen is a chef's dream – if you want to do a lot of cooking! Loved sitting on the deck during the day and just enjoying the beautiful scenery and at night in the hot tub, the stars were magnificent. The huge master suite is like many 4 star hotels, but we enjoy the convenience of being able to eat in and lounge at night in a comfortable great room. Great location for so many things: wineries galore, walk to town for dinner and pleasant drive to the ocean. We'll be back for certain.

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Guest: Debra Smith (Sylvania, Ohio)
Date of Stay: 05/03/09 Review Submitted: 05/03/09

We enjoyed our stay at the Vista Serena and came home relaxed and anxious to go back next year. Your home was clean and fresh and welcoming. The location was wonderful for walking to town and eating out in the evenings. The extra large open great room made it perfect for all of us to enjoy each others company while we prepared food and relaxed in front of the fireplace. Your home's Fall colors and furnishings were so comfortable. We appreciated the good beddings and slept so sound each night. May have been due to all the outdoor activities and maybe the wine too.

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WONDERFUL FAMILY WEEK END

Guest: Kris and family
Date of Stay: 09/16/01 Review Submitted: 11/06/11

Vista Serena was the perfect home and location for 4 adults with 2 children and a dog. Fall is lovely at the Russian River and Guerneville is fun. The 2 story home gives plenty of space for 2 families to have privacy and enjoy the open area for gathering together. The only suggestion--Would have loved to stay a little longer because there is lots to do in the area. Next time will plan for a few more days.

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