A bubbling spa on the lower deck offers relaxation & peaceful river views
Location: Healdsburg, Russian River, Sonoma County, Wine Country, California, USA (In Healdsburg, the Heart of Sonoma Wine Country) View Map
Accommodations: House, 4 Bedrooms + No additional sleeping rooms avail, 2 Baths (Sleeps 8)
Keywords: House / Private Home
Firefly Lodge's spectacular setting, comfortable furnishings, upscale rustic decor, beautiful views, outstanding cleanliness, high quality appointments, private beach with kayaks, central location to all wine country attractions, and truly exceptional customer service.
Firefly offers upscale comfort, relaxation, peace and quiet. Situated in an ideal location to access all that Sonoma Wine Country has to offer, it's just a mile outside Healdsburg, which has been referred to as the "Belle of the Wine Country Ball". Guests are close to all the exciting venues in Wine Country, yet feel worlds apart from the crowds. Enjoy boating, swimming, adventure, and even wildlife viewing, in this beautiful, natural setting.
This rustically elegant cedar home is limited to 8 overnight guests, plus children under three. There are two bedrooms with king size beds, a bedroom with a queen bed, and a suite of two rooms with queen beds, a daybed/trundle unit in the recreation room, and also a baby Pack 'n Play. This two story home has two bathrooms and an outdoor, hot and cold shower with river views. Firefly is just one of our four beautiful, vacation homes located in Healdsburg. For information on the others, please call or visit our website for photos.
.... Share cozy gatherings around the river rock fireplace with friends. Sink into soft leather sofas, and enjoy private views of the Russian River, or venture out into one of the kayaks and paddle the afternoon away.
.... Firefly is just minutes from Healdsburg, with its tree shaded, historical, central plaza, around which everything in this part of wine country revolves. Stroll to acclaimed restaurants, charming shops, art galleries, winery tasting rooms. From Firefly Lodge it's only a 4 mile drive to world-class vineyards in three distinct wine growing regions(Alexander, Dry Creek and Russian River Valleys), and only two miles to the Healdsburg Golf Club.
.... The home has a chef-pleasing, contemporary kitchen, a large dining table, a covered deck for comfortable outdoor dining, and a Weber gas BBQ for grilling.
.... Firefly's river's edge location is one of the choicest spots around for spectacular views and unspoiled beauty. Enjoy the private beach with excellent swimming and boating, in season. We even provide two kayaks for your use. Or choose to lounge in the riverview hot tub.
... Sleep peacefully on rustic log beds with high quality, pillow-top mattresses and soft white linens.
.... Firefly Lodge's casual, rustic elegance, spectacular location,
and careful provision for its guests' comfort and enjoyment, make it
an incredible wine country getaway.
At Wine Country Lodges, we've been inviting guests to enjoy these outstanding and unique pleasures of Sonoma County Wine Country since 2003, and have been consistently maintaining a 5 star rating.
The following comments were made by a recent guest.
"What a place"
"Great location, great view and everything needed to make for a wonderful vacation. We have been coming to Healdsburg for a while and never have stayed in a better spot...What a view from the deck. We will be back, I can't wait for next year." JM, San Diego, Feb,11, 2010.
For more guest comments please visit our website and click on "online comments".
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Air Conditioning : Air-conditioning is not normally needed in our climate, but for peak summer days we have air coolers, venting skylights, ceiling fans, circulating fans, and a portable air conditioner unit.
- Linens Provided : We provide high quality 100% cotton, high thread count linens, comforters, pillows, plush bath towels, hand towels, beach towels, and wash cloths. We use environmentally friendly cleaning products and strive to keep our homes sparkling clean, and allergen free.
- Washer : A wash n' fold service is provided free for guests who stay 3 nights or more, please inquire.
- Dryer : A wash n' fold service is provided free for guests who stay 3 nights or more, please inquire.
- Off Street Parking : Paved parking for four vehicles in front of the home.
- Gas Fireplace : The gas fireplace's flickering flame and embers cast a warm glow, and together with the river rock fireplace and log mantle, draw friends and family around the fireplace for a relaxing gatherings.
- Beds
- King Bed (2) : There are comfortable, high quality, California King size beds in each the Cedar and Birch Rooms.
- Queen Bed (3) : There are comfortable pillow-top queen beds in the Pine Room and in the Fern Suite. In addition, in the recreation room there are 2 twin mattresses in a log daybed with trundle.
- Twin/Single Bed (2) : In the Recreation Room a log day bed and trundle provide two twin beds.
- Crib : We provide a "Pack & Play" style portable bed for babies, including a crib sheet and baby blanket. We also provide a high chair, and baby gate.
- Entertainment
- Private Hot Tub : The premium, Marquis Maximum Therapy System Spa with multiple hydrotherapy features, that sits overlooking a private view of the river below.
- Cable/Satellite TV (2) : There are 2 TVs with VCR players that play DVD, VHS, and CD's, also an Ipod and MP3 player and docking station.
- DVD
- VCR
- Video Library
- CD Player
- Stereo System
- Ping Pong/Table Tennis
- Shared Pool : The river is enjoyable for seasonal swimming, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, fishing, wildlife and bird watching, and much more. Passes are available to our local Health Club with a swimming pool for $10 apiece.
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen : The fully stocked kitchen is spacious, and can accommodate a whole group of cooks at once, with lots of counter space and elbow room. There is everything you'll need to prepare gourmet meals. A refrigerator with ice maker, a Bosch convection oven and gas range, a coffee maker, coffee grinder, toaster, blender, mixer, microwave oven, and dishwasher. It's stocked with high quality serving ware and glassware, condiments and spices, dishtowels,and more!
- Cooking Utensils Provided : The kitchen is fully outfitted with pots and pans, utensils, dishware, drinking glasses, wine glasses, BBQ utensils, baking dishes, roasting pan, serving bowls and platters, coffee maker, coffee grinder, blender, mixer, toaster, etc.
- Refrigerator : Large refrigerator/freezer with an automatic icemaker.
- Dishwasher
- Microwave
- Ice Maker
- Catering Available : Healdsburg has many excellent choices of caterers, or cook-in chefs, many are regulars at Firefly, preparing dinners and presenting wine-food pairings,and they've given our kitchen their stamp of approval. There are also many highly acclaimed restaurants with delivery services.
- Outdoor Features
- Gas/Electric BBQ Grill : We have a Weber gas BBQ with auto-ignition, and all necessary BBQ utensils.
- Deck/Patio (2) : There are decks with a large sitting areas overlooking a beautiful, peaceful and private beach on the Russian River.
- View/Location
- Beachfront : The private beach behind the home is a great spot from which to enjoy swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, and other water sports. A hammock and chairs for lounging at the beach are provided. Additionally, we offer two fishing poles (license required for adults) and even a prospecting kit with gold mining pans for additional riverfront adventure. There's something fun here for everyone, even if you just sit on the deck and watch the activity.
- Waterfront, not Lake/Oceanfront. Ask for details : A stairway leads directly from the deck to the beach and river’s edge below. During the summer months the water is a very comfortable temperature, slow moving, and clear. In the winter the river becomes swift and scenic. All year round guests are drawn to views of the river, its wildlife, its ebb and flow, and change with the seasons. Summer months are marked by canoe traffic, swimmers, rafting, and guests exploring the river with our kayaks. Swimming and snorkeling are great pastimes here. We also provide access to some of the best fishing holes in the area, and opprotunities to fish for Steelhead and Coho Salmon. Fishing Licenses are required for age 16 and older.
- Communications
- Telephone : There is a telephone, with a built-in answering machine, for guest use, and free local calling.
- WiFi (Wireless Internet) : Free WiFi high speed internet access is provided through AT&T for our guests' use.
- Other Amenities
- Our Marquis Spa overlooks a private and panoramic view of the river, and sits on our riverside deck above the private beach. The spa for 4-5 has special, premium hydrotherapy features. There is covered outdoor dining, multiple decks, a Weber gas BBQ, 2 kayaks, CD and DVD players, Ipod and MP3 Player with docking station, and recharger, clock radios, WIFI Broadband (wireless internet), indoor table tennis (ping-pong), a fully equipped kitchen, a large dining table, and is secluded, but close to town, in a location central to all of Sonoma Wine Country attractions, as well as Healdsburg's acclaimed restaurants, charming shopping, winery tasting rooms, outdoor musical events in the plaza gazebo, art galleries, and antique emporiums. We are a bike friendly property, and can offer indoor storage for bikes, as well as other services. Healdsburg's golf course is just 2 miles away.
- Suitability
- No Pets Allowed : Sorry, pets are not allowed, so that we can maintain our high standards in being allergy-free for those guests that have that concern.
- Handicapped Accessible (may have limitations) : It's enjoyable for handicapped guests to use this home as they have easy and full access to the deck for views of the river, outdoor dining, BBQing, etc.
- Wheelchair Accessible (may have limitations) : We have successfully hosted guests with wheelchairs, who find the accommodations, the shower, etc., to be convenient for their use. There is only one step to climb from the parking area to step into the main level, kitchen, living and bedroom areas.
- Kid Friendly : Children find Firefly Lodge to a great place to visit, and (from tots to teenagers)they have been very enthusiastic guests.
- Smoking Not Allowed
- Activities
- Golf
- Tennis
- Shopping
- Kayaking
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Jet Skiing
- Swimming
- Biking
- Mountain Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Fishing
- Health/Beauty Spa
- Antiquing
- Live Theatre
- Horseback Riding
- Hot Air Ballooning
- Zoo/Wildlife Park
- Restaurants
- Rafting
- Shelling
- Hiking
- Fitness Center/Gym
- Cinemas/Movie Theaters
- Museums
- Other Activities
- We are located in Healdsburg, in the heart of Sonoma County Wine Country, and enjoy frontage on the upper Russian River, where the water is clear and the river uncrowded for great family fun and outdoor adventure opportunities. There are activities to interest all ages and tastes, from winery tours, to hiking, biking, golf, swimming, kayaking, soaking in the hot tub, just relaxing, or watching wildlife from the deck. In town, there's the historic Healdsburg Plaza, with shaded benches, a gazebo for weekly summer concerts, fresh produce on farmers' market days, and paths for strolling; surrounded by charming boutique shops, highly respected restaurants with acclaimed chefs, antique shopping malls, art galleries, a theater, bicycle rentals, and tasting rooms with wine-food pairings. Surrounding the charming little city are World Class vineyards, wineries, and breathtaking vistas. Scenic country roads lead to ancient, giant redwood forests, Pacific Coast beaches, and natural hot spring
Rate Details (In US Dollars)
Dec-Mar - 6 guests $399 wk nt, $499 wknd nt
Apr - 6 guests $499 wk nt, $599 wknd nt
May-Jun & Sept-Oct - 8 guests $645 wk nt, $759 wknd nt
Jul & Aug - 8 guests $675 wk nt, $795 wknd nt
Nov - 6 guests $499 wk nt, $599 wknd nt
11% occupancy tax, $145 cleaning fee, $395 fully-refundable security deposit
7th Night FREE! Children under 3 FREE! Inquire re: Small Group Rates & Last Minute
Discounts, Holiday/Special Event Rates may differ. Two night minimum stay required
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
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Credit Cards Accepted:
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Map & Owner's Profile
Spa, Pristine Views, Beach, Kayaks - 1 Mi to Healdsburg
Year Purchased: 2003
Why the Owner Chose Healdsburg
I was searching for a rustic riverfront getaway - the kind I remembered as a child - a place o go with family and friends and leave the cares of the world behind! I wanted it not too fussy so it would have that "relaxing" feeling. I wanted it to be waterfront, with plenty of beautiful views and fun water activities. I wanted it to have a big, covered deck, and plenty of room around the table. I looked for a LONG time, and when I finally found Firefly, I felt, "This is it!", and the family fun began!
The Unique Benefits at this House
The covered, river view deck is perfect for year 'round outdoor
enjoyment and dining. The views from the deck are wonderful,
and the water is so close you can see the fish swimming.
The river is slower and more lake-like in this location, making
it a perfect spot for summertime fun. In the winter the warm glow of
the river rock fireplace, the comfort of the soft leather sofas, and
the fantastic views of the rushing river make this a wonderful choice
for a cozy winter getaway.
The area's oldest course with challenging, rolling terrain, famous undulating greens, and sweeping views of Fitch Mountain and Dry Creek Valley. 9 hole regulation length municipal course, 35 par, 2,61
Giorgi Park , 540 University Ave. has a large wooden playground, lighted tennis courts, and picnic tables.
Healdsburg's historic central plaza is the epicenter around which all activity in this world class wine producing region revolves. Tasting rooms, boutique shops, art galleries and highly acclaimed re
The 12, or so, mile drive along Dry Creek Road from Healdsburg will have you passing by dozens of fine wineries, gorgeous vineyards, and spectacular landscape on the way to Lake Sonoma. A Visitor's C
Simi Winery was founded in 1881 by two Simi brothers emigrating from Italy. Simi’s Visitor Center was built in 1970 of stone and wood and is paneled with redwood from a 25,000 gallon barrel that once
Chalk Hill Wineries are located in a sub-AVA in the eastern hills of Russian River Valley. This small, hilly wine region contains a number of different microclimates. Chalk Hill Wineries are best know
The dam on this portion of the Russian River creates a large public swimming area. There is a lifeguard on duty in season. River's Edge Kayak and Canoe Trips has a concession here that offers transp
The hisotric Camp Rose beach is open to the public. It is situated on a bend in the Russian River that creates a popular swimming hole. The landscape along the river is wooded and beautiful.
The Russian River Valley Appellation begins just south of Healdsburg and parallels the river as it twists and turns thorough various terrain, from agricultural valleys to steep gourges covered in redw
Owner's Map of Healdsburg
Wine Country Lodge's owner, Lisa Neisingh, was raised in Sonoma County, where she enjoyed vacations with her family at a summer home near Occidental. Wanting to share similar getaway experiences with her children and others, she bought Firefly Lodge in 2003, in the vicinity of her great grandparents' home at Healdsburg's historic river resort, Camp Rose. Soon after, Lisa, she bought three, additional, nearby riverfront homes, and has been inviting guests ever since. The homes are elegant, rustic residences, that are both casual and eye appealing. Each home comfortably accommodates guests seeking a place to gather for a memorable retreats with family and friends. The very restful, natural settings offer guests a welcome respite from urban life. Each home enjoys an incredibly beautiful and unspoiled natural environment. Lisa enjoys filling these wonderful riverfront settings with comfortable furnishings, beautiful amenities, and the opportunity to enjoy a choice of many adventurous and leisurly activities, to the delight of guests.
Property Photos
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- A bubbling spa on the lower deck offers relaxation & peaceful river views - Sonoma County/Healdsburg, CA - California Lodging in Wine Country
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- A lighted tree, and charming decorations throughout, greet Christmas guests. - Sonoma County/Healdsburg, CA - California Lodging in Wine Country
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- Upscale rusitc decor, leather sofas, skylights and vaulted ceiling great room - Sonoma County/Healdsburg, CA - California Lodging in Wine Country
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- Enjoy beautiful evenings and dine on the Riverview Deck.
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- Enjoy Firefly's rustic lodge styling, private decks, and superb river views.
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- River views from the deck include clear water, & unspoiled beauty.
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- There are leather sofas by the warm stone fireplace for cozy evenings.
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- The recreation rooms offer ping-pong, TV, books, games, & a log daybed.
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- Fully-equipped kitchen provides ample space to cook your own gourmet meals
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- Sunset views from the deck, looking upriver, toward Alexander Valley.
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- The covered deck is a great place to relax and enjoy the view, year 'round.
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- Firefly Lodge, overlooks the northern Russian River, 1 mile from Healdsburg.
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- The large, custom dining table with antler chandelier can seat 12.
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- The river is lake-like in this region, and ready for enjoyment April - Nov.
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- Besides table tennis, the receration level has a log daybed, TV, and library.
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- Comfortable, pillowtop mattresses, cedar log beds, and fine white linens.
Traveler Reviews (55)
great place to stay
Guest: tootsie
(alameda)
Date of Stay: 08/12/11
Review Submitted: 09/03/11
My girl friends and I stayed at fire fly lodge with our daughters for our yearly girls and mom trip. I couldn't have picked a better place! Our girls spent the whole day going up and down the river in the canoes and floats that where there for us to use while the ladies and I sat in the beach chairs playing cards and drinking wine. The house was beautiful and clean. The beds were great with nice linens. We have decided that there isn't a better place to go, its so close to the bay area why drive for hours when you can stay at Fire Fly lodge!
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, girls getaway, age 55+, families with young children.
best place to stay!
Guest: donna m.
Date of Stay: 08/12/11
Review Submitted: 09/03/11
My girl friends and I stayed at fire fly lodge with our daughters for our yearly girls and mom trip. I couldn't have picked a better place! Our girls spent the whole day going up and down the river in the canoes and floats that where there for us to use while the ladies and I sat in the beach chairs playing cards and drinking wine. The house was beautiful and clean. The beds were great with nice linens. We have decided that there isn't a better place to go, its so close to the bay area why drive for hours when you can stay at Fire Fly lodge!
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, girls getaway, families with young children.
Riverside Getaway
Guest: Dave and Lynn
(Alamo,CA)
Date of Stay: 05/06/11
Review Submitted: 05/17/11
We celebrated my dad's 78th birthday and Mother's Day here. Wonderful home right on the river. We watched kayaks and canoes go down the river while enjoying their great deck. We played ping pong. Comfortable for adults and kids. Great place!
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers, girls getaway, age 55+, families with young children, families with teenagers.
Serene views, clean house
Guest: dawgdoc
(Oakland, CA)
Date of Stay: 04/27/10
Review Submitted: 05/06/11
Stayed here with a group of friends--everyone appreciated the house, especially the decks where we sat and watched the river go by. Beds were clean and comfortable. We only stayed one night and didn't get to enjoy the kayaks or the hot tub, unfortunately. Convenient to downtown. We would absolutely stay here again on future trips to Healdsburg.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, families with teenagers.
River's Edge
Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 03/11/11
Review Submitted: 03/22/11
Perfect spot for a family or small group gathering. Ideal location just minutes from the town center and right on the river's edge! The furnishings were nice, new & cozy. The beds were very comfortable with soft clean linens. It was exactly as advertised by the rental agency! We would definitely stay here again.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers, girls getaway, families with teenagers.
Wine Country Vacation
Guest: The Minnesota 8
(Minnesota)
Date of Stay: 07/21/10
Review Submitted: 10/14/10
We found the Firefly Lodge an excellent vacation get-away for 8! There was enough space for all of us to enjoy- inside and out. There was ample space in the kitchen and on the decks for us to all gather. We also took advantage of the beautiful river, kayaking and resting in lawn chairs. We had a wonderful time on our wine tastings and tours, and exploring Healdsburg, great dinner at Zin. One night we hired Relish Culinary to come to the lodge, where we enjoyed a cooking class/ dinner, an evening to remember! We would highly recommend it!
Recommended for:Sightseeing, girls getaway, age 55+, families with young children.
Wonderful, restful retreat
Guest: Jessica
(San Francisco)
Date of Stay: 09/11/10
Review Submitted: 09/28/10
Six friends and I just stayed at the Firefly resort for our annual weekend "retreat." The lodge couldn't have been more perfect--the location was fairly close to town (Healdsburg) and so easy to get to, but felt like it was more remote, because it's fairly secluded and right on the river. Speaking of the river, it was fun to sit down by the river in the provided lawn chairs, and watch people go by in their kayaks and inner tubes. The house itself was spotless, with plenty of room for us to spread out (it's the first time we've ever each had our own bed!), and lots of comfortable places to sit. Plus, the family who rents out the Firefly Lodge was extremely responsive throughout the rental process--I have no complaints about their communication. With its scenic setting and view, and its accommodating layout (both inside and out) and the excellent communication, we're looking forward to returning next year!
Recommended for:Girls getaway, age 55+, families with teenagers.
Perfect house for our extended family
Guest: Jani
(Novato, CA Marin County)
Date of Stay: 08/02/10
Review Submitted: 08/17/10
I celebrated my birthday with family and friends and was delighted with my choice of Firefly Lodge. It served us perfectly. The home was open, comfortable, clean, handsomely decorated and spacious. The beautiful views of the trees and river, our own private beach very safe for our preschoolers, the large porches where we enjoyed meals and conversation, the hot tub, the comfortable and cozy beds, were some of the highlights of our visit. Lisa, the owner, was gracious and attentive to our needs. All in all it couldn't have been better. I hope we can return for a celebration in the future. Thanks!
Recommended for:Girls getaway, age 55+, families with young children.
Idyllic Firefly Lodge
Guest: Jan
(Guildford, Surrey)
Date of Stay: 07/25/10
Review Submitted: 08/12/10
Our 2 families spent a wonderful 5 days at Firefly Lodge. The setting was perfect and we had lots of fun on the river, plus the Lodge had every home comfort. It was very hard to leave. We would love to go back one day. July 2010
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, girls getaway, age 55+, families with young children, families with teenagers.
AMAZING property. STAY HERE!
Guest: kryan2
(Lerici, Italy)
Date of Stay: 07/16/10
Review Submitted: 07/23/10
Eight of my friends (with one baby) stayed at Firefly Lodge over a long weekend when we raced the Vineman 1/2 Ironman and did a little wine tasting. The house was everything we needed and more. We awoke every morning to the peaceful sounds of birds chirping and soaring above the river. During the day, we lived in the river or on the decks. Yet, Healdsburg was a short drive away for a delicious meal if needed. The house was spacious so that we each had privacy, yet we could all come together when we wanted. Stay here if you are considering this area.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, girls getaway, age 55+, families with young children, families with teenagers.
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #28241
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