If you’re looking for a quiet getaway in Mendocino, The Glendeven Inn is the spot for you. Not only because it’s rated #1 on Trip Advisor for the best hotel in Mendocino, but because it truly is the BEST! Literally, after spending my first few minutes at the Inn upon arriving I knew I was in store for a heavenly two days ahead.

So you’re probably curious, what was so great upon the first fifteen minutes that convinced me this hotel was amazing and a spot I would return again and again? Read more to learn and see why this is truly one of the most magical boutique hotels in California and why you must add it to your bucket list of a luxury hotel you must experience.  8205 N. Hwy 1, Little River, CA 95456  

Views from the main guest house of the lamas and the oceanfront. Wherever you are at The Glendeven Inn, you’re guaranteed stunning views of the Mendocino Coast, gardens or lamas. This is such a magical place!

This is the main hotel reception area where check-in, wine happy hour and the gift shop are located.

The stunning Bay Loft room I stayed in.

Upon arriving at my room, theBay Loft I was welcomed with home-made brownies (that may have still been hot), this lovely note, and fresh flowers. These small personable details are what I remember at a hotel, not the free wifi (which I do expect and use, but that’s quite standard), it’s the over the top unexpected details I take note of and am touched by.

The Spectacular views from the Bay loft. This is where I enjoyed breakfast (delivered to my room), as well as relaxed after dinner cozying up reading a book by the fireplace.

The lovely sitting area of my suite. This window had views of the lamas, the ocean and captured everything beautiful about Mendocino.

Upon arriving at the Inn, I enjoyed a lovely afternoon high-tea. Although I was alone I ended up chatting with Glendeven Inn Owner John and before I knew it an hour or so had passed chatting and enjoying this delicious tea spread. The house-made lemon curd was just another over the top delicious detail I adored during this experience paired with the Roederer Estate Sparkling Wine of course! Read more about Roederer Estate and some of my other favorite Anderson Valley Wineries here  (about 30 minutes from Glendeven Inn) here.

It’s hard to tell what I enjoyed more. The stunning ocean front views, the delicious tea sandwiches and sweets or sipping on Roederer Estate bubbles within minutes of arriving to this heavenly retreat.

Afternoon tea is served on Saturdays at 3 PM or available by reservation for $25 pp and $35 pp with Champagne.

After my high- tea I decided to take a hike along the coast. Glendeven Inn is literally across the street from the coast and suggested a great walking/hiking trail which within 10 minutes lets you off with this view.

Every evening guests are invited to enjoy a complimentary wine tasting paired with a delicious small cheese plate. This is yet another fabulous touch the Glendeven Team shares with guests (complimentary). The Owner, John served us and shared more about his local wine selections which were great. He prides himself on sharing local wines that may be a little less known yet high quality and very interesting.

After the wine and cheese happy hour John invited guests to join him in feeding the llamas dinner. This was the first time I ever got this close to a llama and had a chance to touch and feed them. It was a lot of fun, and just another unique, memorable experience I will take with me from my stay at The Glendeven Inn.

Dining at the Glendeven Inn’s The Shared Table. This is a very unique dining opportunity where guests are seated at a shared table for an incredible four-course gourmet dining experience.  Shared Table Dinners are offered twice weekly (Thursday and Saturday) November thru June and three times weekly (Tuesday,Thursday and Saturday) July thru October. Beginning at 6:30pm, the four-course experience costs $65 per person (additional $25 for the wine pairing add-on featuring limited production Mendocino wines). Dinners are open to the public. Each seating can accommodate a maximum of 12 guests. Reservations are required—to book a reservation call 707.937.0083.

Breakfast is delivered to each guests room and was delicious. Even the coffee is brought in a small thermos. They really have thought of everything here to make to make the guest experience relaxing, delicious and beyond memorable.

There’s also a new exciting Beach Trail Cottage which the Glendeven just opened (and I had the chance to tour) which is stunning. See this beautiful addition to the Glendeven Inn and if you’re looking for something a bit more private than the Inn, I would recommend staying at the Beach Trail Cottage, see more here. 

Thanks to John and the Glendeven Team for hosting me for this weekend getaway to your lovely Inn. It will truly be remembered as one of the most relaxing, peaceful weekends of travel I have enjoyed in my five years of California life and cannot wait to return again and send friends and family to visit.