Stanford Inn & Resort Answers the Call for Where to Stay in Mendocino

More than 50 miles of winding roads let you know that you are getting closer to the views and sounds of ocean waves outlining the coastal city of Mendocino.

A favorite getaway for Bay Area residents looking for a retreat away from life’s everyday hustle and bustle,  Mendocino is known for its peaceful scenery, award-winning wines and world-renowned hospitality.

Whether you are coming for a short or extended visit, the question of where to stay in Mendocino can be answered with a variety of accommodation options ranging from cozy to luxurious and everything in between, including traditional camping and for those looking to take it up a few notches, glamping.

However, when a visit to Mendocino calls for relaxation in order to reset, including one’s mind and body, Stanford Inn & Resort has been catering to guests through its commitment to healthy and sustainable living since 1981.

It’s More Than a Stay – It’s a Lifestyle

The turn onto Comptche Ukiah Road immediately captures the hillside view of the Stanford Inn & Resort, which has been operating for 44 years. Owners Jeff and Joan Stanford have created a tranquil oasis with healthy living, wellness and the earth in mind.

The couple moved to California from Canada following graduate school (Jeff is originally from Kansas), hoping to find teaching jobs and instead fell into innkeeping. The couple eventually settled in Mendocino after looking for a property of their own, opening the doors to Stanford Inn in 1980.

Jeff says, “I just knew that this was the kind of place we wanted, which is a small community where we can be involved in the community, raise our kids. I always believed we were as humans meant to basically work, live, worship (however that turns out to be) and participate in the same place.”

His background in anthropology would play a pivotal role in expanding the inn as well as the dining and experiences offered to guests from the time of arrival.

A lush greenery leads guests to the entrance to be greeted and checked in. A walk-through the lobby and browsing around will lead you to a gift shop full of snacks, books and locally-made goods. Friendly companions such as dogs are welcome to join you for an additional fee, so be sure to inquire when booking.

Rooms are spacious and depending on which floor, have decks with hypnotizing views of the Pacific Ocean to enjoy day and night. Equipped with fireplaces, TVs, DVDs, WiFi and other amenities hoped for during one’s stay, expand moments in your room just to relax.

Stanford Inn & Resort is a destination for many reasons, especially for those on a journey of health and wellness.  The inn offers a host of activities to help reset your mind and body during your stay.

Be sure to inquire about information and schedules for classes hosted onside at the Stanford Inn to include yoga, gardening, whole plant nutrition and cooking and functional breathing.

Schedule a time for a massage in the forest, ranging from deep tissue, aromatherapy, sea salt, and prenatal. Facials, acupressure and acupuncture treatments are also available for an additional by appointment.

Walk through the gardens on your way down to Big River for an afternoon of canoeing. Canoes are available to rent, so you do not need to worry about lugging your own.

Holistic Eating at Ravens

It is no surprise that the Stanfords’ passion for healthy living extends creatively into the dining experiences for its guests.

Offering 100% plant-based menu options at its restaurant, The Ravens, the deliciously prepared fare is one of the highlights of the stay.

Daily breakfast with fresh juice is included with a reservation. Portobello Benedict, savory breakfast crepes or a Ravens waffle or pancake can be ordered along with a selection of sides such as rosemary potato wedges, a Ravens’ muffin, oatmeal and more.

Lunch is available for order on the go before returning late afternoon for Stanford Inn’s teatime that begins at 4 pm daily. Delectable plant-based bites, teas, and coffee are available for all guests to enjoy as they reflect on their day while making additional plans.

Missed the tea?  No worries, The Ravens has a full bar with happy hour held daily.

In the evening, dine at The Ravens, sharing a few small plates such as Ravens flatbread or house-made hummus paired with the Caesar salad made with a walnut “parmesan” dressing.

A menu favorite?  The enchiladas filled with Mexican spiced cauliflower and served with shredded lettuce, avocado, salsa, achiote rice and pinto beans. Not feeling so spicy?  Go for the wild mushroom and creamy polenta or Thai red curry (mixed vegetables and tofu in a red curry sauce).

Save room for dessert, especially the mint chocolate ganache tart with an almost crust or banana split complete with plant-based ice cream and whipped cream.

For those who do not follow a plant-based lifestyle regularly, Stanford Inn’s menu curation is so tasty with flavorful renditions of dishes known and loved, it is safe to say you won’t miss those carnivore cravings at all… at least while you are here.

Exploring Mendocino

Beyond Stanford Inn & Resort is a host of adventures waiting for you. From hiking, biking, a daily run or just watching the water crush up against the rocks, the surrounding paths and beaches are just steps away or a short drive from your room.

In addition, make plans to stroll along the historic village of Mendocino (a 5-minute drive from Stanford Inn) doing a little window shopping, chocolate tasting or noshing at a local eatery.

For those who visit, Mendocino and Stanford Inn & Resort can be described as a place that allows life to slow down so individuals can catch up and recalibrate.

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While guests come to stay at Stanford Inn for various reasons, it is how they leave that matters most to Jeff. “We want them to leave here invigorated and optimistic and feeling positive about the future. And it happens a lot.”

Ready to get away and book your stay? Visit Stanford Inn’s website for more information, room availability, activities and more.

This story originally appeared in Cuisine Noir Magazine