Madrona Manor Wine Country Inn and Restaurant

Owner’s loft is a major disappointment. They advertise this as being their top room but it’s subpar really. Decor is amazing but there is only one mini split AC in the living room so you are extremely uncomfortable and hot in the bedroom. Also, I was told by the staff that the mini bar was included and then was told it wasn’t. Website and booking information do not convey accurate details.

We had a wonderful time at Madrona. Our bungalow was gorgeous and well-appointed. The friendly staff could not have been more helpful. The breakfasts and dinner were excellent. We also appreciated having the shuttle to take us into town. We’ll definitely be back!

Very disappointed, as we had experienced the Madrona Manor in previous years and were anxious to go again. Unfortunately, the elegance and class of the place has been replaced with an effort to mix contemporary/modern furniture and art with the classic Victorian ambiance that was there before the 6 million dollar renovation. Sadly, it doesn't work. It looked like the furniture was eclectic and picked up at garage sales. Absolutely nothing went together design-wise. The music was current and not pleasant. The carpet going up the stairs was a tattered ratan. The staff was friendly, however, while my credit card worked to pay for dinner, there was a glitch in their system at the front desk. Even after calling my bank to confirm there was nothing wrong or a hold on the card, their system would not take it. For the price of an overnight there, we were disappointed and will not recommend it to friends.

In my ongoing quest to evaluate luxury properties within a 1.5 hour radius of The City, I booked a midweek one-nighter at The Madrona. The setting is forest-like -- mature oak, palms and pine create a wonderful canopy and backdrop to the magnificent 150 year old property. Mr Jeffers' interiors deserve all the accolades they have been given in almost every major design periodical. However, it may be time for a refresh. The sisal stairway runner is frayed as was the carpet in my front 2nd floor parlor. I booked the room specifically for the balcony with its stunning views, but the wood furniture was worn and the railing needed re painting. Outdoor wood furniture just dies without constant attention with marine varnish (ask any boater). Again, Jeffers' interiors shine in the bed parlor, but the quirks of this old building mean there are no end tables next to the bed to place a water glass, spectacles, a book, etc. The heated floors in the bathroom were appreciated. There is a tea kettle and a coffee maker in the room, but no coffee, tea or cups. Forewarned is forearmed, I always pack some tea bags and I used a glass to substitute for the proper cup. A prerequisite of a one night stay is to take full advantage of everything the property has to offer as time is truncated -- so a property needs to have it all. The grounds, pool, organic garden, cocktail lounge are all lovely at The Madrona. Unfortunately, the good vibes did not extend throughout the F&B. My dinner was dreadful. Upon sitting down, I noticed that the napkin reeked of detergent. An unappetizing introduction to the dining room. I understand that summer spawning oysters can exhibit some creaminess, but these were disgusting. The milkiness had the look of clotted dairy and the bivalves themselves were incredibly flabby. I tried to dowse them with lemon and drown them in mignonette to no avail. These oysters should never have left the kitchen. The black cod entree, which is ubiquitous on every northern CA menu, was dull as dishwater. This species is local, abundant and relatively inexpensive but its preparation needs "help". No lifeline was provided by The Madrona kitchen and the dish was a dud. I slept that night in dread that those oyster might cause intestinal havoc. As luck would have it, I survived. The continental breakfast offerings are limited -- after checking out, I had breakfast elsewhere in Healdsburg before heading south and leaving The Madrona in the rear view mirror.

Absolutely amazing experience from the time we arrived to the time we departed.. Everything was top tier and every person was a pleasure to interact with.