Quiet Times on the Russian River at the Rio Villa Beach Resort

After our Russian River tour with Wine Cube Tours we decided to relax a little at our residence for the night: the Rio Villa Beach Resort, a Bed and Breakfast Inn located on a quiet bend of the famed banks of the Russian River.

Our view from the Rio Villa

Located in the tiny hamlet of Monte Rio (Population: 1,152, they just kept getting smaller and smaller…), which as its sign proclaims is a “Vacation Wonderland!”  Just moments away from the Sonoma Coast and over a hundred wineries, this quaint resort offers a variety of accommodations for couples, families and individuals traveling for relaxation or business. 

Adjectives such as charming and unpretentious lazily swirled through the air as we lounged in the Adirondack Chairs in the post wine tasting afternoon.  Surrounded by majestic redwoods, the Rio Villa has a private beach that is totally bathed in sunshine.  The grounds are meticulously manicured and aglow with the color of flowers and the aroma of herbs.  Just next door and around the river bend is the Monte Rio public beach where canoes and kayaks may be rented and a concession stand is open during the season. 

The Family Garden Studio

They have several rooms styles at Rio Villa to choose from their Kitchen Balcony Suite, River View Balcony, Two Bedroom Balcony Suite, and Deluxe River View Balcony enjoy views of the stunning Russian River while for a more economical stay without a river view you can try their One Bedroom Kitchen Suite and One & Two Bedroom Villa Suites.  Rates range from $99 to $309 and may require a 2-3 night minimum stay.  They do offer AAA, Senior, and Military discounts.

Kelly and I spent the night in their Family Garden Studio, their largest room that can accommodate up to six people.  This family-friendly room with fireplace and full kitchen opens onto a large sunny patio right on the river.  It has 2 queen-sized beds, a futon sofa/bed, and a big bathroom with a spa tub.  This room is pet friendly with a $25/night pet fee.

Rio Villa Owner Ron

Between May and October the Rio Villa hosts a lot (a lot) of weddings.  Their property can accommodate groups of up to 100 people in numerous outdoor settings.  Due to the small size of their property, all large events must commit to renting all of their 11 rooms for a minimum of 2 or 3 nights.  

After a delicious dinner at Boon (post to come soon) we returned to the Rio Villa.  On a warmer night we would have gathered on their patio by the outdoor fireplace to enjoy a cozy and friendly night of wine and marshmallows, but the chill got the best of us...

The next morning we woke up and grabbed some coffee from the provided continental breakfast (which includes coffee cakes, breads, muffins, fresh fruit, juice and freshly brewed coffee) and took in the tranquility of the Russian River. 

So whether you are planning a splendid summer vacation for the entire family, a romantic getaway to Sonoma’s premier wine country, or a quiet retreat in the winter rain you are sure to enjoy the beauty and charm this spot on the Russian River has to offer.