Dawn Ranch

Definitely not exactly the relaxing stay I had in mind. There were a lot of young kids at the pool/hot tub - not really any relaxation areas for adults. There was also a DJ playing at the pool - the music was loud techno, the opposite of relaxing!! Generally, didn't think the amenities and accommodations matched the high price tag. The cabin we stayed in was VERY small. This hotel option is probably better for families with kids.

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The positive: The service was friendly/attentive and when I had requests I mostly felt heard I very much enjoyed my meal at The Lodge I liked that the tipping was included - made life easier I like that there were bikes and kayaks available. Need Improvement: There was literally no place to store my clothes. It’s clear that I was expected to put my clothes on the floor or leave them in a suitcase. I was grateful that a piece of furniture was moved in but should I really have to ask for something so basic? The pillows were way too hard, uncomfortable, and unaccommodating. I literally woke up with a sore neck each morning. They tried to find new pillows but there were no other ones available so it was tricky trying to sleep for three nights, I appreciate the no overhead lights but they needed more lamps/lighting in both the living room and bedroom, especially when the room gets no direct sunlight. There was also a wall switch that did nothing. They should tell you when you will not be on the main ”campus”. I was in the satellite space across the road and the only way to access the main space was by sprinting across a fast, dangerous, two lane highway. It was…crazy. I would never have stayed there had I know where my room was located. A few small hiccups like having to ask for more coffee pads a few times before getting them myself and getting a towel delivered that I didn’t ask for. Just feels like no one is really paying attention to the details here. I won’t be back.

Overall, I really enjoyed my stay. The property is beautiful, the staff is very friendly, and the breakfast is delicious. Considering you are staying in such a beautiful place in which you most-likely want to see the outdoors, I found the lighting in the rooms as well as privacy options to be not great. Theres either a completely opaque shade you can have for privacy that makes the room completely dark in daytime, or just the open window which looks in on bed and it's a tight space. Not much of a difference between day and night if you want to change, or just see out a bit.it'd be nice to still see some nature while also not being so exposed while you sleep or change, etc. I really wished there was an in between option, like a sheer curtain. My room was also close to the road and you could hear the traffic outside, which wasn't my favorite. I would stay again, but request a different room beforehand.

I had such a wonderful stay at Dawn Ranch! I booked this trip as a solo birthday getaway, and it exceeded my expectations. The property is absolutely beautiful, peaceful, and surrounded by towering redwoods that make you feel completely immersed in nature. My room was cozy, clean, and had a private deck where I enjoyed my morning coffee while listening to the birds. The pool was a great place to relax, and the entire property was well maintained. The staff was friendly and welcoming, The location is perfect, with easy access to the Russian River, Armstrong Redwoods, and nearby cafés and restaurants. It was the perfect place to disconnect, unwind, and recharge.