Wow, one of our best hotel stays ever! Before we had even arrived, we received a phone call that we were getting a complimentary upgrade (we hadn't even asked) due to special circumstances. That was just the beginning. Wonderful, welcoming & friendly staff, exceptionally clean room, nicely appointed & furnished room, excellent evening restaurant, fantastic continental breakfast (had something different almost every day). This is a well-managed property with plenty of convenient parking, a very accommodating staff & beautiful setting among the redwood forest & along the meandering Russian River. The Lodge served as our base for wine-tasting days in Napa, Sonoma, Alexander & Russian River Valleys. All the areas were a moderately short drive away. Please note that due to location of Monte Rio & its resort area, driving in & out is challenging because of curvy, squirrely roads...
On a purely anecdotal side note, regarding driving in California, no reflection on the Highland Dell Lodge:
My observations:
1- No matter how fast you're driving, there is always someone on your butt. Nighttime bonus: they also flash their lights (so you won't forget they are there)...
2- Only bicycles obey the speed limits!
3- CA drivers only yield to emergency vehicles.
4- The day we left:
Woodland CA Costco gas $4.47/gal,
Tucson AZ Costco $2.93/gal
Same vendor, same day. No comment...
My humble opinions.
Sincerely,
DS, LMD