11.30.06
From the issue Coastal Retreats
Sonoma Solitude
Jenner in Sonoma County is where the River (Russian) meets the Sea (Pacific). And the scenic Jenner Inn & Cottages offers city dwellers a rare indulgence in isolation; they’re so detached that cell phones don’t even work there. If you get sated on solitude, there are plenty of activities, including looking for river otters in the estuary (kayak provided by Lotus Kayak Rentals), whale watching from a boat out of Bodega Bay (through Will’s Bait and Tackle), wine tasting at Wine & Cheese Tasting of Sonoma County in Duncans Mills (a five-mile drive from Jenner), or hiking to a private waterfall (a one-mile stroll behind the Jenner Inn). Just be sure to get back in time for a long soothing soak in the tub—and an unforgettable bedtime lullaby by your beachfront buddies, 300 California harbor seals.
Jenner Inn & Cottages, 10400 Highway 1, Jenner; 707-865-2377. River-front rooms start at $138; two-night minimum on weekends. Lotus Kayak Rentals, 707-865-9604.
Will’s Bait and Tackle, 707-875-2323; $45 for 3 – 4 hour tour.
Wine & Cheese Tasting of Sonoma County, 25179 Main St., Duncans Mills, 707-865-0565.
