Sometimes you just want to get away, settle in a nice spot and not worry about things for a couple of days. Other times, you find a place that's so nice you don't want to leave.
For stressed-out times or cozy romantic getaways, we've compiled a list of the best places for "nesting." Most have spas and restaurants on premises or nearby, all have beautiful views and comfortable rooms. Some have pools and other amenities. Don't blame us if you don't want to come home at the end of your stay.
The destinations below are in the San Francisco area but we also have some great Southern California Hideaways.
Carneros Inn, Napa
Courtesy of The Carneros Inn
Cavallo Point Lodge, Sausalito
Courtesy of Cavallo Point
What could be better than waking up with a view of the Golden Gate Bridge? Besides storing those views as visual memories to sustain you on a stressful day, you can take a hike in the surrounding hills, go bicycle riding or kayak in the bay, or bliss out at the on-premises spa.
Cordevalle Resort, Near San Jose
Courtesy of CordeValle and Rosewood Resorts
Elk Cove Inn, Mendocino
Courtesy of Elk Cove Inn
Evergreen Lodge, Yosemite
Courtesy of Evergreen Lodge
Inn at Occidental, Sonoma County
Courtesy of the Inn at Occidental
Inn at Spanish Bay, Pebble Beach
Courtesy of Pebble Beach Resorts
Mission Ranch, Carmel
One of my favorite places for Sunday brunch is also a great spot to chill out for a few days. Located just outside of downtown Carmel on property that was once a dairy farm, Mission Ranch is a cozy place. Some of their rooms offer private patios and views of the ocean, and their grounds are beautifully landscaped, yet with a natural feel. I've seen friends get so relaxed here that I thought I might have to borrow a cart just to get them to the car.Solage Calistoga, Napa Valley
Courtesy of Solage Calistoga
Many properties claim that they're good for everyone, but Solage Calistoga is one of the few that pull it off successfully. During our visit, we saw families with small children, starry-eyed lovers of all ages and a birthday girl who must have had more than 80 candles on her cake - all having a wonderful time.
Ventana Inn, Big Sur
Courtesy of the Ventana Inn
