With harvest season just around the corner (late August to October), I decided to explore Sonoma County. Sonoma is a unique wine region with a slightly different feel than Napa. Tasting rooms in this region can range from simple and rustic to elaborate wine castles and with more than 425 wineries, miles of beautiful coastline, towering redwood forests, farm-to-table dining, and amazing boutique hotels and resorts, Sonoma makes for the perfect romantic getaway.
There are many options when visiting Sonoma from large resorts to boutique hotels but I recommend making the Farmhouse Inn your home when visiting wine country. It’s one of Sonoma’s most unique and luxurious properties and is located at the center of the Russian River Valley, surrounded by vineyards, redwoods and just minutes from the coast. The Farmhouse Inn is a 5th generation family-owned and run business with siblings Catherine and Joe Bartolomei currently managing the property. You’ll often find them on-site, handling the day-to-day operations.
The Farmhouse Inn offers 25 luxurious rooms & suites that come with private outdoor spaces, gas or wood burning fireplaces, steam showers, jetted bathtubs and unique décor that is both rustic and chic.
Guests of the Farmhouse Inn are given VIP access to 12 of the best wineries in Sonoma and after a long day of wine tasting you can come back and relax and unwind at the beautiful pool or enjoy the various fire pits and outdoor seating options.
There is a beautiful Spa that features bold architectural accents, richly textured hand-woven fabrics, and simple elegant furnishings. There is a full menu of services many of which utilize products and produce that are grown and harvested at The Farmhouse Inn. Local honey, herbs and heirloom cider apples are used in many of the treatments offered at the spa.
You won’t have to travel far to eat amazing food. There is a Michelin-starred restaurant on the property that features an ever-changing, farm-to-table menu, using ingredients from the Farmhouse Inn’s ranch as well as other local artisan farmers. Wine pairing options are also available and there is a special wine program that allows diners to taste local wines chosen to perfectly complement their meals.
The Farmhouse Inn combines the hospitality of a family-owned bed and breakfast, with the service and amenities of 5-start luxury hotel and is the perfect spot for a romantic and relaxing escape. Please email me if you’d like to plan a getaway to Sonoma. Harvest season sells out quickly so I recommend booking at least 4 months in advance.
Cabo San Lucas is beautifully situated on the tip of Mexico’s 1,000-mile Baja California peninsula and is a travel destination like no other, combining great weather, exotic scenery and five-star comfort. On this visit, I had the pleasure of staying at The Resort at Pedregal a luxury hotel set in a private and secluded area, yet still close to town. The property is carved into a cliff on 24 spectacular mountainside and oceanfront acres, at the point where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, near the legendary rock formation known as Land’s End.
The property features a collection of residential style villas, and each guestroom has its own private plunge pool, fireplace and outdoor terrace with amazing views of the Pacific Ocean. Rooms features all of the latest modern amenities including: rainforest showers, complimentary wifi and LCD TV’s with cable. Personal concierge service is also available.
You can stay as busy or relaxed as you like when visiting the Resort at Pedregal. There are a number of beachfront pools including an adult’s only pool with a swim-up bar. Golf excursions are also available as well as sea cruises and whale watching tours. And just a few minutes away, there are endless opportunities to discover coral reefs and sandy beaches.
Be sure to carve out time for a relaxing day at the onsite spa, Luna Y Mar. It’s incredible! Also make sure to dine at their award-winning restaurant, El Farallon. It’s tucked into the cliffs and offers break-taking views of the Pacific Ocean. You can’t go wrong with their amazing selection of freshly caught fish and authentic Mexican entrees. They also have an amazing Champagne Terrace Bar with a wide selection of rosés and champagnes.
The Resort at Pedregal combines great service, luxury amenities and exotic beaches and has become renowned for creating relaxing experiences by the sea. Please email me if you’d like to start planning your honeymoon or vacation at The Resort at Pedregal. It is the perfect Mexico escape and we will make sure you that you are well taken care of!
Photo credit: Gary Ashley of The Wedding Artists Collective.
Amanera, meaning peaceful water, is nestled within the pristine Caribbean jungle, overlooking the mile-long golden sands of Playa Grande. This property is Aman’s first resort in the Dominican Republic as well as their first time pairing the unique and one-of-a-kind Aman experience with golf! Infused with the Aman spirit, it’s an exotic yet easily accessible destination, located a short 90 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport.
You will feel welcomed from the moment you land in the Dominican Republic. A representative from Amanera will greet you at the airport and escort you through a separate customs line as well as assist you with your baggage. You will then be transported to Amanera in a luxury car, where beautiful beaches and soft-golden sand await you.
Amanera is peacefully secluded with a gorgeous private beach. There are just 25 beautiful villas, with sleek and modern décor as well as the latest high-tech features. If you want more privacy, book one of their villas with a private pool.
The resort has both indoor & outdoor restaurants with delicious food and excellent service. For the duration of our stay, their staff was extremely attentive and kind. If you want a truly unique experience, have them arrange a private beach dinner or setup drinks and appetizers for you on Hole 17, which is the best location to catch an unforgettable sunset.
While visiting Amanera you can stay as busy or relaxed as you please. The property has an incredible infinity pool that overlooks the golden sands of Playa Grande and an excellent golf course right on the water as well as a luxury spa and fitness & yoga facilities. If you want to explore the island, nearby boat trips are offered as well as surfing and water activities. There are also great hiking trails easily accessible from the property.
The combination of style and comfort makes this beautiful resort the perfect destination for your honeymoon. Please email me if you’d like to start planning your honeymoon or vacation at Amanera. We will make sure you that you are well taken care of!
Are you ready to plan your next adventure? Ever After Honeymoons specializes in planning your luxurious getaways, and we take care of all of the details so all you have to do is dream big, sit back, relax, and enjoy your vacation. Email us to get started at hello@everafterhoneymoons.com!
Six Senses Laamu is located just above the equator in the Maldives. Boasting gorgeous weather, luxurious water villas, and numerous activities and spa treatments, making Six Senses Laamu a fabulous honeymoon location!
THE SCOOP
Private island resort with incredible overwater villas. The villas are an absolute dream, featuring overwater hammocks, plenty of outdoor space, a glass bathtub, an outdoor shower, and a treetop deck. Have a picnic on a private island, snorkel among incredible local coral gardens, and then have a cocktail at sunset at the Chill Bar set over the water.
THE PERKS
Complimentary room upgrade based on availability at arrival, special welcome amenity, honeymoon amenities, and a departure gift.
LEARN MORE
View our hotel spotlight on Laamu here, and read our real couple’s review here!