Off-beat stays in Wine Country

Motels are nice, but how often do you wake up to a family of giraffes outside your door? Miles away from the usual, we've discovered some truly outlandish and awesome lodgings in Napa, Sonoma (and beyond) to rest your wine-soaked head for the night.

From an authentic Japanese teahouse, a culinary getaway spot and the estate home of Sonoma's most notorious wine family to yurts, vineyard farmhouses...and a few other surprises. Just keep your eyes out for wild ibex.

Safari West
Awake to the sounds of African beasties from your luxe tented cabin located in Wine Country's own wildlife preserve. Private accommodations in the raised safari tents include polished wood floors, comfy beds, an outdoor deck, rustic wood furniture, private bathrooms and stunning views of your nearest neighbors — a family of giraffes.

Casa De Sonoma
How often do you get to play wine baron? One of the most influential wine families in Northern California, the Sebastianis, recently opened their historic stone home to Sonoma visitors. Surrounded by tropical gardens and with a view of the winery, the estate has five bedrooms, a pool, bar area and plenty of local nostalgia. If only the walls could talk. For more information, contact Michelle Wing at casa@sebastiani.com or 707-933-3204.


Landmark Cottage
A cozy one-bedroom cottage overlooking the Landmark Vineyards as well as a guest suite are situated on the Sonoma Valley winery grounds. Views of Sugarloaf Ridge, Hood Mountain as well as a bocce ball court and pond are all at your disposal. And really, how nice would it be to stumble out of bed into the tasting room?

Sunrise Ridge Retreat
For the eco-conscious (or chemically sensitive) traveler, this secluded spot outside Occidental offers up a sustainably built cabin for two. The newly constructed rental sits on seven acres of land, but offers all the modern amenities, including a queen bed, hot tub, washer-dryer, telephone, television and your own organic garden.

Wine Country Teahouse
Fascinated by teahouses, the original owner of this property brought two Japanese carpenters from Ishikawa Prefecture to construct an authentic replica in Kenwood. This three-room private home includes thick futons for sleeping, a soaking tub overlooking the garden, authentic Japanese décor and a full kitchen. Surrounded by ponds, footbridges and a gazebo, it is a relaxing, Zen-like environment in the midst of Wine Country.

Ramekins
This popular Sonoma culinary school seconds as a bed and breakfast, offering a cozy spot for visiting cooks. Six private rooms above the school feature private bathrooms, cozy décor and a quiet escape. It's a short walk downtown, but within stumbling distance of one of Sonoma County's fastest rising restaurant stars, The General's Daughter.

Yurts at Spanish Flat Resort
Accomodations aren't fancy at this Lake Berryessa resort, but how often do you get to sleep in a yurt? These round, tent-like cabins have the creature comforts of a raised platform, queen-sized bed, locking door and heater, but otherwise are pretty bare-bones. Year-round accommodations at the lake include bass and trout fishing, picnic areas and a marina. Best of all, the yurts are just $50 a night.

Gaia Hotel
This brand new 134-room hotel in American Canyon (about 20 minutes from Napa) is an ultra-modern, eco-conscious endeavor that includes a luxurious Asian-themed spa and restaurant. The first hotel to garner a Gold LEED certification, the lodging is fully green, from its construction materials to landscaping.

Castle in the Clouds
Bacchus guards the gates to this secluded hilltop bed and breakfast. Dripping with Victorian bric-a-brac, lace and cherubs, it's a spot where you'll most likely want to snuggle up with your honey rather than your boss. Don't miss the outdoor patio where you'll have views to some of the most prestigious vineyards in Napa. 7400 St. Helena Highway, Yountville, 707.944.2785


Harbin Hot Springs
This New Age-y spiritual retreat just north of Calistoga isn't for everyone. You'll need to arrive with an open mind (and a membership, which can be purchased onsite for $10) to stay at this communally-run compound. The center is clothing optional and vegetarian, offering a wide variety of massage therapies including a very hands-on experience in their hot springs pool, called Watsu. Don't miss the cherished fig tree, chapel and a stay in the otherwordly rooms of the Domes, where bathrooms and eating areas are shared. For weary souls, the springs experience offers a brief respite from the modern world (including your cellphone) and many kindred spirits. But don't be surprised if you actually meet someone named Moonbeam.