During many visits to the Mendocino Coast over decades, I nearly always have stayed in the village of Mendocino. We’ve often stopped at galleries in Fort Bragg and eaten at the fine Mendo Bistro on No. Main St., but have never lodged in town. But each time we drove into Fort Bragg and passed the Grey Whale Inn, I would always think “that’s where I’ll stay if I ever spend the night here.” This month the opportunity finally came and we stayed 2 nights in the Grey Whale Inn’s Campbell Room.
The location of the Inn was so convenient for walking everywhere we wanted to go. It was such a pleasure to be able to park our car when we arrived and not need to get in it again until we were ready to leave town--restaurants, art galleries, shops and the Skunk Train were all within a very short walk from the Inn.
The expansive yet still cozy feeling Inn with its unusual history of being Fort Bragg’s former hospital, was a unique treat. It was so comfortable and welcoming; filled with history and art and even a little Bohemian flavor. One can easily devote over an hour to exploring its different levels and areas and perusing the old photographs, maps, artifacts, fascinating artwork and beautiful pottery and ceramics (most created by Mike, the congenial owner/innkeeper). Sweet Pea, the resident cat, came to greet us when we checked in and made us feel very much at home since we have 2 kitties at our house.
There is a very lovely, diverse garden that contains both ornamentals and edibles. Many of the herbs and veggies are used at the Inn.
I very much liked the idea of having a “guest kitchen” available for those wishing to prepare simple meals themselves if they don't wish to go out to eat.
The Campbell Room (located on the 2nd floor in the southwest corner of the Inn) was spacious and serene feeling, and we even had a distant view of the ocean. There was plenty of space to relax as we had a small sofa, 2 armchairs, a small writing desk and a gas fireplace. A TV (which we never even thought to turn on) and a phone were in the room. The VERY comfortable King bed was set back into its own curtained alcove area. Small nightstands would have been a convenient to place glasses, but there were none.
A little area leading to the bath contained a small refrigerator and sink. There was an open closet area, but strangely, no hangers in it. As it was, we had only foldable clothes so didn’t ask about getting hangers. The bath itself was serviceable and had decent lighting, a nice long countertop and another sink. The shower/tub seemed to be narrower than standard. The water pressure and heat level were both good and the toilet functioned fine (not always the case at historic properties!) A hairdryer was provided in the bathroom.
Our breakfasts were simple, but absolutely fresh and delicious. We had a choice of homemade granola, yogurt, whole grain bagels with cream cheese, English muffins, fresh fruit; plus each morning we were served an egg dish with potatoes. The savory flavors (herbs from the Inn’s garden, no doubt) were so good! Coffee, tea and orange juice rounded out breakfast. Mike, along with being a wonderful host and talented artist, is also a fantastic chef!
After staying at the Grey Whale Inn, I understand why guests return there again and again--and each time feel like they’re coming home.
