2005-05-27
by Nancy Gilbert
One of the first B&Bs in Napa Valley is still one of the best. Deer Run Inn opened its hospitable doors in 1980 and is still welcoming new and repeat guests with enthusiasm. To say that the inn is “in” Napa Valley is a bit misleading. It is really a delightful rural retreat for wine country visitors who want to be close to the action in the valley itself yet who want some seclusion and quiet serenity at the end of the day. Just ten minutes from downtown St. Helena, Deer Run Inn is situated near the top of Spring Mountain on the west side of the valley floor. This side of the mountain is home to 21 wineries, so guests don’t even have to venture into the sometimes crowded highways in the valley to enjoy tasting good wine. But St. Helena, with its excellent restaurants and shopping, is just down the hill. The unique location of Deer Run Inn, near the top of the mountain, gives it an added comfort factor: thanks to Mother Nature, it is ten degrees cooler in hot summer and ten degrees warmer in cold winter than the valley floor.
The inn is surrounded by Douglas Fir and native oak and bay trees. There are extensive walking trails with stunning views of the valley below.
Hosts Tom and Carol have completely remodeled the property since they bought it in 1980 and are always conscious of providing the best in comfort for their guests They offer three rooms and a separate cottage, each with private entrance, deck, fireplace, TV and all the amenities necessary to pamper their guests, including feather beds, robes, and tea and brandy service. A heated swimming pool beneath the redwood giants, a ping pong table and horseshoe games will appeal to those who have some energy to spare. The comfortable living room and breakfast room have huge windows looking out into the forest and are surrounded by decking so that guests can enjoy themselves outside as well as in. A large fireplace, well stocked bookshelves and an extensive CD collection add to the relaxed atmosphere. Carol serves a full breakfast, which includes homemade breads, seasonal fruits and hot dishes like frittatas or quiches.
Tom is a third-generation Spring Mountain landowner who knows all the fascinating history of Napa Valley. He is also an accomplished watercolor artist who specializes in landscapes that adorn the guest rooms. His framed pictures are for sale, and visitors may find themselves going home with one of his Napa Valley landscapes in addition to many pleasant memories.
Deer Run Inn is located at 3995 Spring Mountain Road in
St. Helena. For more information, call (707) 963-3794 or toll free at 1-877-333-7786. The fax number is (707) 963-9026.
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