Tucked between the world-renowned vineyards of Healdsburg and the towering redwoods of Armstrong State Park, Sweetwater Ranch has a rich history dating back to the 1800s. Once part of the original mining town of Mercury, this beautifully updated home seamlessly blends vintage charm with modern comforts. Whether you’re savoring a glass of wine by the pool, or relaxing in the beautiful gardens, this is the perfect escape for wine lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a tranquil getaway.
Quiet hours: 21:00 to 7:00. Pets: Allowed (maximum 1). Smoking: Not allowed. Events: Not allowed. Suitable for: children and infants
Upon stepping inside, you'll immediately notice the updated Victorian charm. Think gourmet kitchen for your inner chef (or for ordering takeout, no judgment!), BBQ for those sunny afternoons, and plenty of spots to sip on local wines and beers while gazing out at the pool, hot tub, gardens, and even our very own grapevines. It’s like a postcard comes to life, only with better snacks.
Speaking of outdoors, prepare to fall in love! Picture this: sun-kissed afternoons by the pool (toe-dipping encouraged, full-on cannonballs applauded!), evenings soaking in the hot tub under a blanket of stars, and the soothing sound of the seasonal creek as your soundtrack. Inside, you'll find beautifully decorated bedrooms, including a downstairs separate suite for added privacy, and a master bath with a tub that’s practically begging you to relax. Need to work? We have a laptop-friendly spot. Need to unwind? Smart TVs are ready for movie nights. Basically, Sweetwater Ranch is your home base for adventure, relaxation, and everything in between. And if you need any local tips or recommendations, we'd love to share our favorites.
A few things to know about getting around Sweetwater Ranch. It's a charming three-story Victorian, and like many older homes, it has its quirks – in the best possible way, of course! To reach the lovely wrap-around porch, there are two sets of half-story stairs, one at the front and one by the driveway. Inside, a set of stairs leads to the upper bedroom from the main level.
And for the downstairs suite? Ah, that's where things get a bit more... natural. A path winds its way around the house, leading you to your private retreat. Now, these redwood trees, they're quite the characters, and their roots have a mind of their own! So, the path can be a tad uneven in spots. Think of it as a little adventure on your way to relaxation. The downstairs suite itself is ground level, just like the pool and hot tub, so no stairs there!
For those who’d like to explore the garden, we have many paths meandering through the property, all following the natural lay of the land. They're beautiful, but just a note: they can be a bit uneven and, depending on the season, a bit muddy.
Guests have exclusive access to the entire property, including the three-story main house, the downstairs suite, gardens, pool, hot tub, and the surrounding grounds.
We strive to achieve the perfect balance between providing our guests with the privacy they desire while remaining accessible for any questions or needs that may arise. We respect your space and ensure that your stay is as comfortable as possible. However, if you have any inquiries, require assistance, or simply want some local tips and recommendations, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're always more than happy to help make your stay a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Sweetwater Ranch is nestled along Sweetwater Springs Road, a scenic and winding route that connects the charming towns of Guerneville and Healdsburg. Located just minutes from downtown Guerneville, you'll find a vibrant mix of locally owned restaurants, artisan shops, and the iconic Johnson’s Beach along the Russian River.
Wine lovers can explore the renowned vineyards of the Russian River Valley, where top-tier wineries like Korbel, Hartford Family Winery, and Bucher Wines are just a short drive away. Outdoor enthusiasts will love hiking among the ancient redwoods of Armstrong Woods State Park, kayaking on the Russian River, or taking a day trip to the rugged Sonoma Coast, where stunning beaches and oceanfront trails await.
Though tucked away in a peaceful, rural setting, Sweetwater Ranch is conveniently located for exploring the best of Sonoma County—whether you're in the mood for wine tasting, outdoor adventure, or a quiet retreat surrounded by nature.
Fencing: The main portion of the yard is fenced along the road and creek, but it is not 'dog-proof.' We recommend walking the fence line before allowing your pet off-leash. Safety fencing is installed around the pool, as required by local regulations. Should you remove it during your stay, we kindly request that you replace it prior to your departure for the benefit of our subsequent guests.
Dogs: We are delighted to welcome up to two well-behaved dogs. Please ensure your furry friends are never left unattended. A small pet fee applies to cover additional cleaning, any damages caused by pets may incur extra charges. The outdoor space features a hose for rinsing off muddy paws, as well as provided dog bowls and cleanup bags.
Pool & Hot Tub: The pool is not heated, but it offers a comfortable temperature from June to September. Between October and May, water temperatures may dip to 40 degrees, and guests may observe an increased presence of floating leaves. The hot tub is integrated into the pool and is available on-demand year-round. It requires 30-45 minutes to heat.
📌Please note that during the rainy season (typically October through March), outdoor furniture cushions are stored away to protect them from the elements and ensure they remain clean and dry. Consequently, outdoor seating may not be set up as pictured during these months.
📌Property Maintenance:
A service provider may stop by during your stay to care for the outside of the property, such as the pool, hot tub or landscaping. They’ll stay outside and won’t enter the home. See your guidebook for service days and times. We always do our best to let you know ahead of time.
📌To ensure a seamless check-in, all guests must complete a quick pre-check-in verification through our secure guest portal; a link will be sent after your booking is confirmed.