Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
Historic Spanish Colonial Revival resort in Sonoma Valley, famed for its natural geothermal spa and fine dining.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility.
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Spanish Colonial Revival resort in Sonoma Valley, famed for its natural geothermal spa and fine dining.
"A beautiful and restful resort in wine country with excellent food and a spa area not to be missed. "
🚗 Valet Service is Great
Valet service is friendly and helpful, making arrivals and departures smooth. :car:
💧 Bring Your Own Water Bottle
While water dispensers are available, bring a reusable bottle to fill up and reduce plastic. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Geothermal Mineral Pools
Spa Area
Soak in the healing, mineral-rich waters sourced from a natural hot spring. Pure relaxation awaits.
Sante Restaurant
Main Building
Indulge in exquisite fine dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients. A culinary delight.
Mission Spa Suites
Select Rooms
Experience ultimate comfort with oversized jacuzzis, fireplaces, and serene garden views.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Spa Treatments in Advance
Embrace the Historic Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Valet Service is Great
Valet service is friendly and helpful, making arrivals and departures smooth. :car:
💧 Bring Your Own Water Bottle
While water dispensers are available, bring a reusable bottle to fill up and reduce plastic. :droplet:
🛁 Request Bathrobes & Slippers
These aren't automatically in rooms, but can be requested from the front desk. :bath:
🥂 Enjoy the Welcome Drink
A complimentary glass of wine or champagne upon check-in adds a lovely touch. :champagne:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Valet Service is Great
Valet service is friendly and helpful, making arrivals and departures smooth. :car:
💧 Bring Your Own Water Bottle
While water dispensers are available, bring a reusable bottle to fill up and reduce plastic. :droplet:
🛁 Request Bathrobes & Slippers
These aren't automatically in rooms, but can be requested from the front desk. :bath:
🥂 Enjoy the Welcome Drink
A complimentary glass of wine or champagne upon check-in adds a lovely touch. :champagne:
📅 Book Spa & Dining Early
Popular spa treatments and restaurant reservations fill up quickly, especially on weekends. :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests rave about the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa's beautiful grounds, excellent food at Sante, and the relaxing spa experience with its mineral pools. The historic charm and attentive staff contribute to a memorable stay, though some note room noise or dated aspects.
"A beautiful and restful resort in wine country. The food was excellent and the beds were very comfortable. The body and bath products provided in the shower were high quality, and the pool and spa area shouldn’t be missed."
Debbie Thompson Photography
"Location is about 1.5hrs away from SFO airport. Quick drive barely hit any traffic which was great. Grounds are pristine, well maintained and everyday someone is always cleaning. Plenty of chairs to lounge and very organized.
Rooms: I was given a big one. Plenty of space and storage to place your items. Comfortable bed ~ soft side. Pillows were amazing. Rooms come with lotion and other bath essentials. No bathrobe or sleepers unless requested at front desk.
Room tends to get cold, I had to place a towel in my room to block the cold draft coming in.
Overall amazing staff very helpful and always greeting you. Wonderful team. Had a great stay!"
MH Apin
"Stayed here for a birthday treat. The restaurant Sante was really good and the staff amazing. The rest of the experience was disappointing for a supposedly 5 Star hotel. The room was old although it looked like it had been refreshed recently. The room was extremely noisy from both outside road traffic on Highway 12 as well as neighboring rooms. The shower head was very low and no one over 5' could stand under it. There was no secondary deadlock on the door that you find in other hotels which seems like a big security issue. There was only coffee and tea in the room (aside from the 'free' bottle of wine that's included in the resort fee) no water, snacks or mini bar that I would expect from a 5 star hotel, and have received from other hotels. There are water dispensers scattered around the property but no containers to fill. I know the hotel is Eco and reducing plastic but other hotels provide water bottles, water filters in the room or water provided in reusable glass bottles. The reception staff were not personable and it felt like it was an inconvenience for them to check you in and out. The Valet service was friendly and helpful. The shuttle to town only starts at 2pm which means you have to Uber if you want to go in for brunch or lunch. Lots of room for improvement but we have plans to return!"
Nigel Star
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from San Francisco (SFO) airport, often with minimal traffic. Renting a car is a common way to reach the resort from the Bay Area.
While direct public transport to the resort is limited, Uber and Lyft are available for getting around Sonoma. The hotel's shuttle to town only starts at 2 PM, so you might need to arrange alternative transport for earlier excursions.
If you're coming from Napa, renting a car is the most convenient option, offering flexibility to explore both wine regions. The drive between Napa and Sonoma is scenic and relatively short.
Yes, the resort offers valet parking, which is generally praised for its friendliness and efficiency.
While SFO is a major hub, Oakland International Airport (OAK) is also a viable option, offering a similar driving time to the resort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Absolutely! The spa is a major attraction, and booking your desired treatments well in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred time slots.
The resort fee typically covers amenities like Wi-Fi, access to the spa facilities (mineral pools), and sometimes a complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival. It's best to confirm the exact inclusions with the hotel directly.
Keep an eye out for special packages, especially for spa treatments or romantic getaways. Following the hotel on social media or signing up for their newsletter can alert you to promotions.
The spa and mineral pools generally have extended hours, allowing for relaxation throughout the day and into the evening. Specific hours can vary, so it's advisable to check with the resort upon booking or arrival.
Yes, it's often possible to book spa treatments and access the spa facilities as a day guest, sometimes through services like ResortPass.
🎫 🛏️ Rooms & Amenities
Rooms vary, with some offering historic charm and others updated amenities. Many guests find the beds very comfortable, though some note rooms can get cold or have low shower heads. Mission Spa Suites offer luxurious features like jacuzzis and fireplaces.
Bathrobes and slippers are not automatically provided but can be requested from the front desk.
Some guests have noted the absence of a mini-bar or refrigerator in standard rooms, though a complimentary bottle of wine is often included. Reusable water bottles can be filled at dispensers around the property.
Amenities include geothermal mineral pools, a full-service spa, fitness center, on-site dining at Sante restaurant, and beautifully maintained grounds. +1
Yes, the Mission Spa Suites are known for featuring oversized jacuzzis and wood-burning fireplaces, offering a romantic and cozy experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The resort's signature restaurant is Sante, offering fine dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Guests have praised its excellent food and amazing staff.
Yes, Sante is highly recommended for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries, offering an elegant atmosphere and delicious cuisine.
While Sante is the main fine-dining establishment, the resort may offer more casual options or room service. It's advisable to check with the hotel for current offerings.
During the afternoon wine hour, guests can enjoy a selection of wines, with some visitors highlighting particularly delicious Chardonnays.
Yes, coffee and tea making facilities are typically provided in the rooms for your convenience.
📸 📸 Photography
The Spanish-style architecture, serene gardens, and the mineral pools offer beautiful backdrops. The Mission Spa Suites with their fireplaces and views are also very photogenic.
Absolutely! The romantic ambiance, historic charm, and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal location for engagement and wedding photography.
While you can capture the ambiance of the spa area, be mindful of other guests' privacy. Focus on the architectural details and serene water features.
Golden hour, both in the morning and late afternoon, offers beautiful soft light that enhances the resort's charm. Midday can be bright, but the shaded gardens offer good options.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional shoots or drone usage may require special permits or prior approval from the hotel management. Always check with the front desk.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While not explicitly a 'kid-themed' resort, the comfortable rooms and the overall peaceful atmosphere can be conducive to a family getaway. Consider booking a larger room or suite to ensure ample space for everyone.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1 The tranquil ambiance of the spa and the intimate dining experience at Sante further enhance the romantic appeal. Enjoying a glass of local wine by the fireplace or soaking in the mineral pools together creates lasting memories.
🧘♀️ Wellness Seekers
Beyond the spa, the resort's serene environment encourages mindfulness and de-stressing. Embrace the 'soft travel' philosophy here, where the focus is on unwinding and disconnecting from daily pressures.
The emphasis on natural elements and tranquility makes it a perfect retreat for anyone looking to recharge. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa: A Historic Sanctuary
This historical depth is palpable throughout the property, from the architecture to the very waters that feed its renowned spa. Visitors often remark on the timeless atmosphere and the sense of peace that pervades the resort. The resort's connection to the land is evident in its use of natural geothermal mineral springs, which have been revered for centuries.
+1Many guests appreciate the resort's commitment to maintaining its historical integrity while offering contemporary comforts. The lobby, with its warm fireplace and inviting seating, often evokes a sense of stepping back in time, yet with all the conveniences expected of a luxury hotel.
Unwinding at the Willow Stream Spa
Beyond the pools, the spa offers a comprehensive menu of treatments, from massages to facials, utilizing high-quality products.
It's highly recommended to book spa appointments well in advance, as popular treatments and time slots can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons or weekends.
Culinary Delights at Sante Restaurant
Guests consistently praise the quality of the food and the exceptional service at Sante. It's often highlighted as a perfect spot for celebrating special occasions, such as birthdays or anniversaries, adding an extra layer of luxury to any stay.
Reservations are strongly advised, particularly for weekend evenings, as Sante is a popular dining destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit