Staycation at the Gaige House in Glen Ellen

If there’s one thing I’ve learned as a Bay Area girl who loves a weekend getaway, it’s that you don’t always need to hop on a plane to feel worlds away. Sometimes, all it takes is a short drive, a plush robe, and a glass of Sonoma Pinot…or some sake, depending on your mood.

Enter Gaige House, a serene little sanctuary in Glen Ellen that might just be my new favorite staycation spot. I’ve had my eye on this Japanese-inspired inn for years, and I was so excited to get to experience it.

Tucked into the quiet, leafy streets of Glen Ellen, a sweet little town in the heart of Sonoma County, and part of the Four Sisters Inns collection, Gaige House feels like a secret that locals know about but want to keep all to themselves.

I get the temptation, but you all know I’m no gatekeeper!

First Impressions: A Hidden Gem in Sonoma Valley

You know that feeling when you pull into a place and immediately exhale? That’s Gaige House.

The property sits just off the main street in Glen Ellen, surrounded by towering oaks and lush gardens. The vibe is equal parts zen retreat and boutique hotel—the kind of peaceful that makes you want to speak in a whisper and kick off your shoes immediately. Which you are subtly encouraged to do once you check into one of the Ryokan suites, as you’ll find bamboo Japanese slippers in the entryway.

The Rooms: Zen Suites That Redefine Relaxation

Let’s start with the obvious: the rooms here are stunning.

I stayed in the newly remodeled Creekside Suite (ADA-friendly), and it was lovely. I loved the huge outdoor patio facing the creek, with the comfy lounge chairs, sofa, and fire pit. I spent every night out there before bed in my cozy sanctuary with a glass of wine…and a critter or two—I saw a raccoon, skunk, and an opossum walk across my patio. They were totally unbothered, and I have to tell you, skunks are actually so cute.

I also visited and shot in (and took a bath in lol) one of the Ryokan Suites. Think clean lines, bamboo accents, shoji screens, and the soft scent of cedar drifting through the air. The interior glass Zen rock garden atrium is such a luxe, relaxing touch and so unique.

The bathroom itself was spa-worthy, with a massive granite soaking tub (the star of the show), rain shower, and plush robes that I pretty much lived in during my stay. SO luxurious!

Every detail feels intentional. The tea set waiting on the table, the handwritten welcome note, the ambient lighting—it’s all designed to help you slow down and breathe.

If you’re traveling with a partner, it’s super romantic. If you’re solo? It’s self-care heaven. And if you’re on a girls’ trip? Prepare for a serious robe-and-wine montage moment.

Spa + Massage Treatments at the Gaige House

To truly unwind and relax, I booked a 90-minute massage for late afternoon. 10/10 recommend.

The massage itself was deeply restorative. My therapist used a mix of gentle pressure and aromatherapy oils that left me blissfully floaty for the rest of the evening.

Afterward, I poured another glass of wine, took a long soak in the hot tub, and watched the sky turn pink through the trees.

If that’s not the definition of a perfect staycation reset, I don’t know what is.

Amenities + Property Highlights

The charm of Four Sisters Inns properties is how they manage to combine boutique luxury with real warmth—and Gaige House has that perfect balance. Little touches like fresh chocolate chip cookies in the afternoon and a sake bar that you can help yourself to elevate the whole experience.

Mornings start with breakfast at the main building, or you can have it delivered right to your room (for a delivery fee). Each morning, there was something different, like frittatas, breakfast burritos, homemade granola, fresh fruit, all with a side of strong coffee. I enjoyed mine on the patio in a robe, obviously.

Every evening, there’s a complimentary wine and charcuterie hour, featuring local wineries and artisanal bites.

The pool and meditation garden are equally delightful—peaceful, sun-dappled, and perfectly quiet.

Oh, and pet parents—Gaige House is dog-friendly in select rooms. So yes, you can bring your four-legged bestie for their own version of a wine country retreat.

The only thing to note amenities-wise is that there is no gym on the property. I’m trying to stay on my fitness game, so I brought dumbbells and a yoga mat with me so I could do a HIIT workout on my patio.

Why Gaige House Is the Ultimate Bay Area Staycation

For Bay Area locals, Gaige House is that rare blend of proximity and luxury—it’s a little over 2 hours from San Francisco, but it feels like you’ve traveled to another world.

It’s the ideal weekend reset: no flights, no airport stress, just deep breaths, wine country air, and an open schedule that revolves around breakfast, poolside lounges, and massages.

The Four Sisters Inns touch is what ties it all together. You can tell this brand really cares about details—every stay feels personal, never cookie-cutter.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend, a solo recharge, or a mini girls’ trip where you can run around in your robes, Gaige House delivers on every front.

Would I stay at Gaige House again? In a heartbeat.

It’s the kind of place that doesn’t just look beautiful on Instagram—it feels beautiful. There’s a calm energy woven through every corner of the property, from the koi ponds to the Zen Suites to the staff who seem genuinely happy to help you unwind. For anyone craving a little peace, a lot of comfort, and maybe a perfectly timed massage, this Glen Ellen escape should be at the top of your list.