The Madrona

I can’t say enough good things about the Madrona. They treat you like royalty. The rooms are spacious and well appointed. The continental breakfast is terrific: croissants, delicious fresh squeezed orange or grapefruit juice, good coffee or tea, fresh fruit (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, pineapple slices, all quality stuff), high quality granola, rich yogurt, and an excellent selection of soft and hard cheeses. The setting is gorgeous. It’s on a hill with a scenic outlook. Although it’s only a five minute drive from central Healdsburg, it’s an idyllic, rural setting. If you’re a birder lots of interesting birds to see and hear too. While we were there my wife got sick for one day (through no fault of the Madrona). The staff was extremely accommodating. I drove her to an urgent care center in Windsor to be seen around noon. Although that was past checkout time (it was our last scheduled day there) they said not to worry, either we could extend our stay for another day or just have a late checkout at no charge, depending on what we were told at the urgent care center. In the event we decided to stay another day, during which time my wife recovered. They even waived the increased charge for a Friday, and just charged us at the normal weekly rate. So refreshing to be treated as a human being and not just as a walking wallet! Next time we’re in Sonoma (we live across the country) we will without question look forward to staying at the Madrona again!

For 2 Michelin keys, we expected a bit more from what we experienced. We only stay at 5 star hotels and this one stood out to us because of the Michelin stars. But service, hospitality fell short of what a 5 star hotel should be. Rooms were uncomfortable, and was not thoughtfully designed or configured. The entire sitting area was wrapped in this very busy wallpaper including the ceiling . If you are having your guests feel relaxed and have tranquillity, it did'nt work. We booked a cottage one of the more expensive accomodation , not mentioned any where that there's not TV in the room, There is no place to hang your towels only 2 hooks which is for the robes. Coffee machine is hidden in a cabinet and the entire coffee making was not friendly. No room service. This is not a full service hotel, it felt like we went glamping. Snack that is for sale were expired.

Our experience at Madrona was exceptional. The room, decor, ambiance, food, service was all phenomenal and we had a 5 start experience at every turn. This is a little hidden gem in Sonoma County. The room did not have a TV but it had a fireplace and very special decor and details including heated bathroom floors. The entire place was warm and welcoming.