Wildwood Gardens Scenic Rustic Vacation Retreat on the River
House in Monte Rio, CA
6 guests · 2 bedrooms · 1 bath
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind
Great for petsBring all your friends and family, even the furry ones
About this house rental
Rustic Wildwood Gardens (Cert No. 721N), is a lush and serene haven located on the banks of the scenic Russian River. Adults, children and pets will enjoy the one-acre lawn and garden of hydrangeas, fuchsias, birch trees and willows under the shade of the majestic redwoods. Follow a short private path a few feet from the lower deck down to the river and to the right to swim, play or launch one of the house kayaks. There are three sundecks on which to relax and read a good book, listen to the birds, watch the wildlife on the lazy river or enjoy the hot tub with spectacular views. Wildwood Garden has something for everyone.
Wildwood Gardens is delightful and relaxing every season of the year.
In summer, enjoy Monte Rio’s 4th of July fireworks from the hot tub, or from the spacious lawn. Build a campfire in the fire pit on the lawn and enjoy the long summer nights. Wildwood Garden is secluded from other houses in the area so you can enjoy your private oasis. There are nearby restaurants on the river in Monte Rio and you can walk to them in ten minutes.
Fall still has warm days and nights and most of the tourists have gone home, but they miss one of the best times to enjoy the sunsets on the river that attract thousands of small jumping fish. Watch the birds as they migrate south.
Winter is perfect time for a cozy and romantic weekend to enjoy the fireplace, a good book and a glass of wine while watching the wildlife and river float by. Take a long soak in the Jacuzzi tub and feel like all of your worries have washed away with the river.
In spring, the gardens erupt with hydrangeas and flowers and greenery abounds.
This water front house has a short private path to the Russian river, just a few feet from the lower deck. Depending on river conditions, in the summer there is a beach to the right at the bottom of the path. Guests may use any of the boats and life safety vests that Wildwood Garden provides. [Boat use is prohibited in the high water winter months, usually between November and April.]. Because the river is constantly changing our bank we do not guarantee easy beach access.
The house is rustic cabin but well appointed. Both bedrooms have queen size pillow top beds. The master bedroom has a wood burning stove and a patio door that opens to the deck area with hot tub and river views. Pillows and extra linens are provided for the large sectional sofa that is so comfortable that some guest’s prefer to sleep in the living room in front of the fireplace. There is a small loft overlooking the living room for the kids. Our permit allows six overnight guests.
The living room/dining room has vaulted wood ceilings and accent lighting. There is a flat panel TV above the fireplace, with streaming services, and a large sectional sofa. WiFi is available throughout the house. From the living room and bathroom you can access the river view redwood deck that spans the riverfront side of the house and a large picnic table and comfortable chairs expand your living space to the outside. The hot tub and BBQ are also on the riverside of the deck.
The kitchen has everything you will need to feel at home. The bathroom has a Jacuzzi tub, separate shower and plenty of fresh towels. The house is equipped with an on-demand water heater so the last person in doesn’t have to worry about getting a cold shower and all of the rooms have recently upgraded heaters. For those staying extra days, a washer dryer is available.
You can spend a leisurely afternoon wine tasting at nearby Martinelli and Korbel wineries or dozens of other smaller wine boutiques. Enjoy a 9-hole game of golf at the nearby Northwood public golf course or bring (or rent) your bikes to explore the breathtaking road to the river’s end at the Pacific Ocean in Jenner. Cyclists from all over the world now explore the Russian River backroads and you are just as likely to hear “bonjour” or “ciao!” as “good day” or “hello.” Antique shops and art galleries await in Healdsburg and Sonoma. A short drive takes you to the quaint hamlet of Occidental with century old Italian family restaurants established when the town was a booming railroad outpost.
Please note for guests booking on a Thursday or Friday, our gardeners will usually spend about 1 hour mowing and trimming the lawn.
Wildwood Gardens is delightful and relaxing every season of the year.
In summer, enjoy Monte Rio’s 4th of July fireworks from the hot tub, or from the spacious lawn. Build a campfire in the fire pit on the lawn and enjoy the long summer nights. Wildwood Garden is secluded from other houses in the area so you can enjoy your private oasis. There are nearby restaurants on the river in Monte Rio and you can walk to them in ten minutes.
Fall still has warm days and nights and most of the tourists have gone home, but they miss one of the best times to enjoy the sunsets on the river that attract thousands of small jumping fish. Watch the birds as they migrate south.
Winter is perfect time for a cozy and romantic weekend to enjoy the fireplace, a good book and a glass of wine while watching the wildlife and river float by. Take a long soak in the Jacuzzi tub and feel like all of your worries have washed away with the river.
In spring, the gardens erupt with hydrangeas and flowers and greenery abounds.
This water front house has a short private path to the Russian river, just a few feet from the lower deck. Depending on river conditions, in the summer there is a beach to the right at the bottom of the path. Guests may use any of the boats and life safety vests that Wildwood Garden provides. [Boat use is prohibited in the high water winter months, usually between November and April.]. Because the river is constantly changing our bank we do not guarantee easy beach access.
The house is rustic cabin but well appointed. Both bedrooms have queen size pillow top beds. The master bedroom has a wood burning stove and a patio door that opens to the deck area with hot tub and river views. Pillows and extra linens are provided for the large sectional sofa that is so comfortable that some guest’s prefer to sleep in the living room in front of the fireplace. There is a small loft overlooking the living room for the kids. Our permit allows six overnight guests.
The living room/dining room has vaulted wood ceilings and accent lighting. There is a flat panel TV above the fireplace, with streaming services, and a large sectional sofa. WiFi is available throughout the house. From the living room and bathroom you can access the river view redwood deck that spans the riverfront side of the house and a large picnic table and comfortable chairs expand your living space to the outside. The hot tub and BBQ are also on the riverside of the deck.
The kitchen has everything you will need to feel at home. The bathroom has a Jacuzzi tub, separate shower and plenty of fresh towels. The house is equipped with an on-demand water heater so the last person in doesn’t have to worry about getting a cold shower and all of the rooms have recently upgraded heaters. For those staying extra days, a washer dryer is available.
You can spend a leisurely afternoon wine tasting at nearby Martinelli and Korbel wineries or dozens of other smaller wine boutiques. Enjoy a 9-hole game of golf at the nearby Northwood public golf course or bring (or rent) your bikes to explore the breathtaking road to the river’s end at the Pacific Ocean in Jenner. Cyclists from all over the world now explore the Russian River backroads and you are just as likely to hear “bonjour” or “ciao!” as “good day” or “hello.” Antique shops and art galleries await in Healdsburg and Sonoma. A short drive takes you to the quaint hamlet of Occidental with century old Italian family restaurants established when the town was a booming railroad outpost.
Please note for guests booking on a Thursday or Friday, our gardeners will usually spend about 1 hour mowing and trimming the lawn.
Amenities
Air conditioner
Pets allowed
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
Hot tub or spa
TV
Garden
Map of Monte Rio, CA
££££
Ratings and reviews
10.0 / 10.0
We had a lovely and relaxing stay on this river front house. Being on the water was a joy and it was so easy to pop down to the river and play. The hosts were very helpful, too. There was a small hiccup with the propane and the hosts went out of their way to fix the problem and communicate with us.
10.0 / 10.0
Staying at a property right on the river was a treat! I've been to the area many times and having the direct access to the river made for wonderful views but also so convenient for kayaking and floating. The outdoor property was our favorite but the house was tidy, check in process easy and great for a weekend getaway with friends and family.
10.0 / 10.0
This is our second time staying at Wildwood Gardens. Had a great time with family and friends, everyone loves the scenic view from the house!
10.0 / 10.0
The setting is gorgeous and private. The outdoor space is amazing. The kitchen is really well stocked. We enjoyed a relaxing week of preparing delicious meals, playing board games, swimming, reading, and enjoying one another's company. Thank you for a perfect opportunity for mom to spend some quality time with her adult children. We all loved it!
2.0 / 10.0
Not sure how the current review from Laura M who claimed to stay there May 28 of this year as I never saw her in the house with me and my husband lol. But I can tell you the photos of this property are not current and you need to check with the host before you check in to make sure you’re getting what you paid for, hopefully things have changed since we left this property end of May. I have learned my lesson call the host first to make sure what you see online is what you’re gonna get in person. The house was clean. check in was easy communication with host was good and thanks to me now have access to the small beach to the river. The host had a tree service come out in the evening on our second day to take away the tree. The hot tub was great we made the best of it as we could for our short stay but like I said have learned my lesson call first to confirm what you see online is current. You don’t want any surprises on your vacation.
10.0 / 10.0
We had a great time in this lovely little house right on the river. The house is well appointed and close to the town center. The large property is so beautiful and peaceful. We will definitely stay here again!
10.0 / 10.0
Beautiful spot on the River! Perfect for up to 4 people. Anyone more would be very tight. Early May is too early for boating, but it would be wonderful for that later in the summer.
10.0 / 10.0
This was a perfect place for us! 4 adults and one 5yo. Cabin and yard are very charming and private. Short drive to the coast with beautiful beaches and the river is awesome. Just around the corner from the cabin is access to a river beach. Would definately book here again.
10.0 / 10.0
At the end of our stay my friends and I agreed we would be back. It was a wonderful weekend enjoying beautiful clear skies with a view of the river during the day and next to the fire under stars at night. Loved the tiered deck and open grassy area. The hot tub was enjoyed by my friends. Inside was clean and cozy. We didn’t cook much but instead opted for pizza from downtown. Although the kitchen had everything we needed and the microwave and coffee pot appeared to be new the stove was slow to heat but did the job for frying an egg. We didn’t use the grill, which also looked new, however, that’s where I would recommend spending your time cooking so you can get the most out of the river view and the outdoors.
8.0 / 10.0
We met our daughter and her partner there on a road trip up the California coast. The house is on the river, but it rained everyday, so we did not have a chance to experience the decks and great back yard.
The house is old and a little worn, but warm and cozy, we had a fire the whole time we were there.
Only 1 bath but 2 good bedrooms and a nice living room dining area were just fine for 4 adults.
Close to a store and eating establishments
10.0 / 10.0
My wife and I are foster parents as well as we have very demanding jobs. We have found that vacations, even just a weekend away, are paramount to our happiness and success.
This spot was perfect for a weekend away. Thank you so much for having us at the river. It was lovely.
4.0 / 10.0
The location was fantastic with a wonderful property on the riverfront. Unfortunately, there was a strong, unpleasant odor that filled the place in all the rooms. We cleaned the floors, Febreezed everything from the curtains to the lampshades, burned candles but couldn't rid of it. The smell was in the walls, furniture, curtains, lampshades, etc. We spent alot of time outdoors as a result which was ok with the hot tub, riverfront views from deck and firepit. The home has potential but needs alot of TLC from years of neglect it seems.
10.0 / 10.0
We had a great stay! Our group was 6 adults - I would not recommend that many adults for the stay, 4 would be more comfortable. That said, the couch and pullout worked!
On the river it is a spectacular place. The kitchen is a bit small and outdated, but worked just fine. Hot tub is beautiful overlooking the river. It was a sweet time.
10.0 / 10.0
We were at this place for 3 days during fall. 3 adults plus 2 dogs. Location is perfect if you want to visit north, south, east or west and almost downtown. Along the river with private access which is very convenient. Very comfortable house, big balcony and huge garden. Even if it was in fall, we used the canoe, and we enjoyed the hot tub afterwards. TV night and games perfect. The only things I would improve are the mattresses/spring boxes and the electric range (some burners don't work very well).
10.0 / 10.0
Lovely and quiet. Thank you very kindly!
10.0 / 10.0
We enjoyed this property immensely. Would have booked more days if we had known. Quiet and idyllic, wonderful small kayaks, the river was very safe and manageable at this time of year - swam with our dog and paddled around with the boats. The beach access was not as open as the photos made it seem, but we managed it nonetheless. We will return!
10.0 / 10.0
Our second stay here and we love the river access and views. Also a central location to visit Bodega Bay and Jenner for the day. The house is good for us, but could use a couple things already noted in other reviews. I finally got the stove figured out on the last day but never got the tv figured out. But that was ok, just used the streaming services. Bed was really the only bad part. Last time we brought our foam mattress but didn’t this time. Just to relax and enjoy the outdoors with our dog it was perfect. Lights on deck are on a timer that came on at 7am instead of 7pm due to power outage. Must be common because we had same issue last time. But you can override the on and off. Didn’t want to mess with the settings. Overall this is a great property and has everything you need. Look forward to our next stay.
10.0 / 10.0
The house was well stocked with all needs and we had great fun! It was very clean and everything was labeled which made finding things a lot easier.
I will say there are a lot of stairs to get to the beach during the summer, but that isn't a problem for us, just good to know for someone who may have mobility issues.
There were 4 kayaks, all 1 person. We had to drag them a ways and I ended up rolling my ankle on the uneven path, but also not a big deal. The canoe was quite far from the beach so we didn't bother with that.
The beds were comfortable although the main bed is super creaky and loud with the smallest movements.
All that said, we still loved our stay and would be happy to come back again
10.0 / 10.0
My husband and I, our 10 month old, our 3 year old, my brother and his husband stayed at Wildwood Gardens over Labor Day weekend. It was perfect. First if all, the best location- beautiful view, which made for lovely meals outside, and seriously just a few minute kayak/canoe ride to Monte Rio beach, which was very convenient for our family. We were pleasantly surprised to find that the lot was larger than anticipated and enjoyed the privacy and spaciousness. The big grassy areas were perfect for our kids to play on and the firepit was great for smores one night :) It was the perfect size for four adults and two young kiddos, we appreciated the television and streaming options, the large bathtub, and us adults loved the hottub. The outdoor lighting was very magical and we all commented on how it was such a serene, delightful property and we would certainly love to return!
8.0 / 10.0
We loved our stay on the river! The home had all the necessary amenities to make our stay comfortable along with our pups. Great location right on the river with a really lovely back yard space to gather, sit around the fire pit or take a kayak on the river!
10.0 / 10.0
Everything you need for a great vacation. We had so much fun with our grandson there. I have never been kayaking ever and now I wouldn’t come off the river. Extremely impressed with the attention to detail and care for all that was offered…..which is A LOT. Amenities to perfection…..the only problem for us was main bedroom mattress could be improved a bit. That certainty did not stop me for just booking next years stay.
We have stayed in a few rentals summer after summer, this one my grandson said was the best ever. Im not looking any further for a place to stay. This will be our go to for as long as they allow. Thank you.
10.0 / 10.0
Needs some updating and deep cleaning. A little too many steps. Beautiful view. The bedroom tv's we could not get to work.
10.0 / 10.0
The property is beautiful. Perfect location on the river, great boat/river amenities, and hot tub. House is small, but worked fine with a lot of sleeping options. Will def stay again!
10.0 / 10.0
Great location and grounds. We enjoyed our relaxing getaway.
10.0 / 10.0
We loved our stay! The cabin was a great size and comfortable for our family of four and dogs. We loved the spa and yard and really enjoyed the river access. Great location and would definitely stay again.
10.0 / 10.0
Rescheduled a winter trip into May. Hosts were very responsive and easy to communicate with. Love the extension of the space into the outdoors with the covered porch. Lots to do in the area, seems to be something going on every day now that the weather is warming up. Enjoyed our time.
10.0 / 10.0
It was very nice, relaxing vacation. Perfect location, everything is great! Thank you!
10.0 / 10.0
Great time for my wife and I to enjoy a weekend away from the kids and go Whale watching in Bodega bay. See Andiamo whale charter.
10.0 / 10.0
It was relaxing
10.0 / 10.0
We had such a wonderful time. The house was fully stocked with pots and pans even down to a little shampoo and conditioner. It was great to know that there was a full-size washer and dryer, as well as extra blankets and pillows for us all to cuddle up in. The hot tub fit three adult people, and it was comfortable and clean. The outdoors was an amazing place to hang out and have a bonfire. Five stars for sure! The rooms were cozy, and the wifi was easy to get into. It was fun to see the kids explore the place there was even a little loft for one child to sleep in! The outdoor patio was great for us to overlook the water. The hosts were quick to respond .. everything we expected, but even more! There were even two bikes that we could borrow.. we will do that in the summer since it was raining this weekend. There was even a second refrigerator for our needs. They have extra towels for the beach. They even had a wonderful gas grill that had a tank full of propane. I cannot say anything bad about this place! We will definitely be going back.
10.0 / 10.0
The house was cozy and well stocked, easy to find anything we needed (extra bedding, kitchen stuff etc.) We want to come back in the summer because the property was so big and beautiful. Still were able to enjoy the hot tub and a "polar plunge" in the river.
10.0 / 10.0
This was our second stay at the cabin. We had fun hanging out by the campfire and warming up in the hot tub. Cute and cozy just as it was last time. Our kids are already asking to come back in the summer!
8.0 / 10.0
This adorable, rustic house had everything we were looking for, and was very well organized and appointed! Easy to check in and check out - loved the hot tub and the backyard. Highly recommend this adorable river house. We would stay there again!
10.0 / 10.0
Perfect spot for a little family getaway on the river. Dog friendly, clean, and lots of great amenities! We’ll be back!
10.0 / 10.0
We loved the decks, yard, and access to the river. The house had everything we needed.
10.0 / 10.0
Right on the river, huge yard, and within walking distance to everything in town.
8.0 / 10.0
I booked this trip so my son could fish. There was no private dock as advertised. The private beach was unusable as well. I paid for and booked this rental for these two reasons, neither were usable. The house was great but very disappointed with the dock and beach issues.
8.0 / 10.0
Overall, We enjoyed our stay here. The lot size is quite large, allowing my kids to run around. River-front property with easy access to the river. Property also provided single kayaks, which is an added bonus.
A few points to improve. We didn't mind the small kitchen, but not all the burners on the stove work. We could not store our foods in the kitchen shelves, since they were all filled with owner's stuffs. Most importantly, the mattresses for both bedrooms were too soft and lacking any back support. Thus, my and I wife woke up everyday with sore backs.
10.0 / 10.0
I would recommend this property for small families, or couples looking to enjoy the perfect river front location. The kayaks were great fun for all of us! It’s a simple home, but has what you need to enjoy the area. We went up the road to Armstrong woods, and out to the coast to watch sunset. We loved seeing the different birds along the shores of the river as we took the kayaks both up and down stream.
Ron was great at communicating and was super helpful when we reached out.
10.0 / 10.0
Wonderful outdoor family vacation!
This is a lovely cozy house. The vaulted ceilings and sectional couch make the small space seem larger. The loft is small but my teenage son loved having his own space so it worked. Awesome outdoor space! Beautiful view! Great, quiet location on the river (bring water shoes - every experience I’ve had on Russian River is rocky, not just here). The use of their kayaks was much appreciated. The house is on a great wide part of the river. Not sure if it’s always like this, but in July when we were there the river was at the perfect height so we could play in the water waist deep off the island across from the house. Short walk to the local mart where they carry all the essentials. Major grocery store a 15 minute drive (Guerneville). Overall a great experience. You really can’t beat the quality time on the river this house provided. We would definitely stay here again!
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Monte Rio?
The average price for a rental in Monte Rio is £200 per night. This rental is £96 above the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Wildwood Gardens Scenic Rustic Vacation Retreat on the River . For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Wildwood Gardens Scenic Rustic Vacation Retreat on the River pet friendly?
Yes! This house is pet-friendly. For more information, we recommend contacting the booking provider about animal policies.
What amenities are available at Wildwood Gardens Scenic Rustic Vacation Retreat on the River ?
We found 12 amenities for this rental. This includes air conditioner, pets allowed, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, and fireplace.
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