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Jenner Inn, Russian River

Along the Russian River, just before it opens into the mighty pacific, lies the charming small town of Jenner.

After arriving in Jenner, we checked into the Jenner Inn and quickly settled into the Rosewater cottage. The Rosewater Cottage is but one of many riverside rooms, suites, and cottages that comprise the Jenner Inn.

All of the accomodations have picture windows looking out onto the beautiful Russian River. Our cottage was perched on the rivers edge and offered a gorgeous view of the river and surrounding hills. Cranes and other birds sailed by, looking for fish.

The area exudes a natural pristineness, as there is a total lack of overdevelopment in Jenner. We felt as though we were relaxing in the countryside.

Our cottage was huge and featured a full kitchen, living room with fireplace, dining area, bedroom with four postered bed and river views, and a sun bathing riverside patio. After unpacking we left the cottage to explore the surrounding area. Next to the cottage we found an outdoor jacuzzi, nestled in an open air overhang. The water was perfectly heated and we proceeded to enjoy ourselves by relaxing in the jacuzzi while watching the beautiful nature scene before us.

This was, by far, the best spa location that we had ever experienced. Less than 20 feet from the water’s edge we were able to fully relax from a day of driving down the north coast.

We decided to venture back to the Inn and get some dinner recommendations for that evening. Small lights on the walkway lit our way along the path from to our cottage… we passed a small Buddha statue and beautiful flowers. It reminded us of the peace that enveloped us at this quiet getaway.

When I confirmed our stay weeks earlier, I let the organizer know that it would be my birthday. They were delighted and promised an extravagant world class dinner for us. We dressed up and headed over to the Inn in eager anticipation. Upon arriving, we were shocked to find the restaurant was closed for the evening on account of it being the chef’s birthday. The innkeeper and proprietor, Richard Murphy, said he was not aware of our reservation. We were told the Chef was drinking and they would be having a private dinner that evening. We could hear them laughing loudly from the bar.

Though suprised and disappointed, I meantioned the fact that it was my birthday as well, and offered to buy the chef a drink to celebrate together. We were refused. Ouch! No glory for TravelStar! We inquired about the next best place to eat and received a couple recommendations, all of which were a great distance away, inland. We left and drove out to restaurant called Cape Fear that specialized in seafood. Richard called ahead to let them know we were on our way. The restaurant suggestion turned out to be decent, with a good selection of fresh seafood. Edie bought me dinner, and we salvaged the remainder of the evening.

We arrived back at our cottage late. We poured 2 glasses of desert wine and made a fire in the large stone fireplace. The Jenner Inn provides enough wood for a great fire.

The following morning we arrived in the parlor for a complimentary breakfast. Filled with games and books, the parlor is the place to meet other guests, socialize, find activities in the area with their handy visitor guides, or just relax and have a cup of complimentary tea or coffee.

Another superb feature of the Jenner Inn is the restaurant next door. The Mystic Isle Cafe is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and serves a wide variety of fresh California cuisine. The restaurant also offers some of the best Sonoma County wines and entertainment is provided on most nights. However, I advise that you call ahead and check on their off-season hours and be sure to confirm your reservations the day before, especially if it’s a special event!