The IIDA ( International Interior Design Association) held their Annual Winter Retreat 2012 at MacArthur Place. We've been going here since 2009 and it's always a treat.
You will be pleasantly surprised when you drive up to the property, it's big and covers 7 acres. There are numerous buildings on this historic site and each typically has 4 rooms, 2 upstairs and 2 down, total 64 rooms and suites. The grounds are beautifully landscaped and many interesting sculptures throughout.
At check-in, they don't offer help with luggage or seem that helpful. I called the front desk to find out about getting a room with tub and no one picked up. Check out is noon.
Each room is individually designed and the decor is what I call country chic and so cozy! The room was very comfy and charming, with king bed, nice linens and down comforter. Flat panel TV with DVD player and movie selection in the library.
The bathroom was spacious with shower (wished it had a tub!) and nice toileties (and they had my favorite cotton pads, too), included is a bathrobe, which I wasn't expecting. Beware, the hot water is hot!
There are books (The Green Book, Guide to Saving the Planet) and magazines in the room and 2 large lounge chairs with reading light, large closet, dresser and desk. Turn down service was great, they leave chocolate. Mini bar and snacks in the room with coffee maker and Fuji Water for purchase.
Saddles is the restaurant on the property, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast is included 7- 10 am and is continental syle with yogurt, fruit, pastry, juice, cereal and coffee. They served us lunch and it was fantastic with salad, fresh roasted veggies and chicken with out of this world sauce!
On the property is a swimming pool, great for when the weather is warm and a jacuzzi. Some were brave enough to use, but for me it was too cold in February.
The Garden Spa is adjacent to the pool and has 7 treatment rooms, lounge, locker rooms, co-ed steam room and gift shop. Facilities are complimentary for hotel guests or with any spa treatment.
Other amenities include, fitness center, complimentary evening wine and cheese reception in the library (excellent selection of games, books, DVD's), internet access and printer, giant outdoor chess set and bike rental.
Some of the rooms are farther from parking than others. My room was close to the street, but no issue with noise. Because we were a large group we got a great rate on the rooms. The president of our group got upgraded to a large suite, which was lovely with fireplace and soaking tub. The Garden Cottage Room 12 is the large room on the property. Manor House Room 6 is the handicap room and is so spacious.
We ate dinner at Hopmonk (on Broadway) the first night and it is a fun, casual, inexpensive, within walking distance . The next night we had a very nice dinner at Carneros Bistro restaurant (on Broadway) also walking distance. The food was excellent and it is a very upscale restaurant with modern, nice decor.
The MacArthur Place conference center and gardens offer ideal space for meetings, retreats, weddings, private events and receptions. I think it is perfect for a romantic getaway or girl's weekend. I would definitely go back.
Sonoma Plaza is wonderful to stroll around, long 4 blocks from MacArthur Place and my favorite shops include the Church Mouse (thrift shop benefits St Francis school) and off the Plaza is not to be missed Tiddle E. Winks - step back in time to vintage 5 and dime! Summer Vine has gorgeous housewares and decor.
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
