Villa Grande is a hamlet within the town of Monte Rio in the Russian River Valley. This little bend of the Russian River has a history of being somewhere to relax and celebrate, something that is still true to this day. It was a central gathering spot in the 1920s of San Francisco revelers when it was still a lumber community. (It is said the largest dance hall west of the Mississippi was located here for many years!) You are reminded of its rollicking history upon entering Monte Rio by its classic green and white sign, (“Welcome to Monte Rio, Vacation Wonderland”!)

Just 4 miles west of bustling Guerneville, and 8 miles from the coast, Monte Rio is conveniently tucked between Russian River Valley wineries and restaurants, hiking trails in the redwoods and along the coast, all connected by the meandering Russian River. While smaller than Guerneville, Monte Rio still boasts two restaurants, Bartlett’s Market for picking up necessities, Northwood Golf Club, The Rio classic movie theater, and of course the town beach which has boat rentals.

The Villa Grande neighborhood consists of single-family homes, cabins, and cottages, many of which are occupied by full time, friendly residents. Just one block away there is a wonderful, peaceful, and somewhat private beach at Patterson Point that is maintained by the Friends of Villa Grande Association. (Because of these benefits, and to maintain the happy and quiet community, The Rio Haus asks that guests respect the parking, quiet hours, and full-time neighbors and to let the host know right away if there are any issues.)

Visit Duncan Mills: Vintage shopping, cheese shop and local restaurants. (10 minute drive)

Goat Rock Beach/Jenner Headlands: Incredible Pacific Coast views; picnic on the beach and go seashell hunting! Jenner Headlands is a new in and out hike that starts and ends with views of the Pacific. (18 minute drive)

Lounge at the river: Patterson Point private beach is just a block or two from the Rio Haus. You go back to Russian River Avenue where you came in, turn left, and it is about two blocks down. You’ll then see some signs and the access to the beach on the right. You can picnic, swim, do stand-up paddle boarding, floating, or kayaking.

Hiking in Armstrong Woods: $10 to get in, gaze up at the giant redwoods. Take Armstrong Woods Road near downtown Guerneville. (10 minute drive to Guerneville)

Sonoma Zipline Adventures: zipline 200 feet above ground from towering tree to towering tree. Super fun if you like thrills! (10 minute drive)

Visit Guerneville 5 and Dime: a classic game and candy shop, fun for kids. (10 minute drive to Guerneville)

Float the River! Kings Sport and Tackle: rent kayaks here, launch at Johnson’s Beach; enjoy a 5 mile trip ending with a pick-up in Monte Rio Beach. (10 minute drive to Guerneville)

Explore Occidental: Shop at Sonoma Nest: vintage art, lamps, clothes, and a plant nursery in one. Shop at Boho Bungalow: great housewares, trendy decor, local candle shop. Cheese and Meat shops are also here, and a Farmers Market on Friday early evenings. (15 minute drive to Occidental)

Wine tasting at Russian River Vineyards (24 minute drive) or Korbel Champagne Cellars (15 minute drive).

Cape Fear Café, Gold Coast Bakery, Blue Heron Pub (10 minute drive to Duncan Mills)

Cafe Aquatica in Jenner has good coffee and the best clam chowder I’ve ever had with views of Jenner Inlet. Wine tasting is next door. (20 minute drive to Jenner)

Rivers End: fine dining restaurant with views of the ocean—a good date spot or fancy happy hour to watch the sunset. (20 minute drive to Jenner)

Martini Bar: Italian restaurant. (15 minute drive to Occidental)

Union Station: Italian restaurant. (15 minute drive to Occidental)

Guerneville Eats (10 minute drive to Guerneville):

·  Agriculture Public House: nicer dining in a knotty pine setting dining room.

·  Pats International: kitschy/hipster diner with good Korean fried chicken for lunch and breakfast; ice cream and is family friendly!

·  Big Bottom Market- coffee and delicious biscuit sandwiches.

·  Boon: Upscale California cuisine.

·  El Barrio: trendy Mexican best for cocktails!

·  Stumptown Brewing: views of river and good burgers, outdoor dive.

·  Howards Station Café: super good coffee and full breakfast menu.