Windsor lies in a gorgeous valley. The Russian River runs north to south through the center of the valley. Historically, the town sat on either side of the river with the east side providing a convenient resting stop for weary travelers to water their horses.
After construction of the North Pacific Coast Railroad, people began to settle on the west side of the river so that they could have better access to the train station. Today, two of the most popular roads that lead into Windsor, Eastside Road and Westside Road, are named after this geographical distinction.
Due to Windsor's proximity to San Francisco, the town is home to many young working professionals who commute to the city and the Silicon Valley. In addition, many well-established multigenerational farms and wineries maintain roots tied deeply into the community.
Visiting Windsor and the surrounding area is a wonderful experience, and whether you are exploring the many wineries or relaxing along the banks of the Russian River, you'll want to find the ideal hotel for your stay.
When is the best time of year to visit Windsor, CA?
Spring is one of the best times of year to visit Windsor. After the winter rains, the abundant wildflowers begin to pop with color. The gently rolling hills surrounding the Russian River Valley come to life with vibrant green grasses.
Wildflowers such as gold poppies, purple lupines, and red larkspur contrast spectacularly against the vivid greens for a stunning visual delight. Hotel rates are generally lower during the spring, and visitors can find more room choices available during the spring compared to the height of the summer season.
If you are vacationing in Windsor during the summer, you'll find plenty of fun activities for everyone. Frolic, play, and swim in the warm, clear water of the famous Russian River and have a picnic on the sandy shore.
If you are looking for an adventure, rent a canoe or kayak and enjoy floating down the river. Look out for blue herons or turtles basking on logs. If you are lucky, you may spot a river otter. Since Windsor is a popular place during the summer, be sure to book your hotel stay well ahead of time.
After the Labor Day weekend, when school resumes, Windsor takes on a slower pace. However, during this time, the wine grape harvest begins, making it a fantastic time to visit the many wineries. You can admire the beautiful changing colors of the wine grape leaves as you drive along the bucolic back roads of Sonoma County.
Stop at any of the small boutique wineries and take a tour to see how the grapes are processed and made into award-winning wines. While hotel rates are lower than peak season during the summer and more room availability exists, you will still want to make reservations well ahead of time.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Windsor, CA:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average price trends by star rating class in Windsor, CA. Analyze these charts to calculate the best dates to book a room in Windsor for any future trips.
What are the luxury hotels in Windsor, CA?
4 Star Average Prices: $208.46
When looking for luxury hotels in Windsor and the surrounding area, book a room at the Vintners Inn. This luxurious hotel is ideal for a romantic getaway or a girls spa and wine tasting weekend. The adjacent restaurant, John Ash & Co., is known throughout all of Sonoma County for its fine dining. For an exceptional spa experience, the on-site Vi La Vita Spa offers sumptuous facials and body treatments that will relax and replenish you.
The well-appointed rooms at the Vintners Inn feature wireless internet, flat screen HDTVs, plush bedding, luxurious bath amenities, and views of the local vineyards and mountains. For ease and convenience, book a Wine Country Getaway Package that includes your stay in the room, plus tours of local wineries.
Enjoy Russian River history when you stay at the Farmhouse Inn located a few miles from Windsor in the town of Forestville. Travel & Leisure magazine cites the rustic and romantic Farmhouse Inn as Sonoma County's most luxurious property. Once abandoned and in disarray, this hotel property was purchased in 2001 and went through extensive renovations to create the luxury hotel it is today.
All rooms feature feather beds with European linens; exquisite bath amenities; private bathrooms with jetted tubs, saunas, or steam showers; flat-screen televisions; free Wi-Fi; and nightly turndown service accompanied by a serving of homemade cookies and milk. The restaurant offers exquisite fine dining with foods prepared by their Michelin-starred chef.
What are the budget hotels in Windsor, CA?
3 Star Average Prices: $173.00
You may be surprised at the availability of affordable budget hotels in Windsor. The Holiday Inn Windsor Wine Country is in the heart of the town. With more than 100 wineries close by, this hotel is the ideal choice for discovering many of the well-known wineries, such as Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens, as well as small boutique wineries such as the pet-friendly Mutt Lynch Winery.
The Holiday Inn is conveniently located 4 miles from the Sonoma County Airport and is off of Highway 101. With amenities such as free Wi-Fi, a fitness room, and an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, you and your family will have plenty to do to stay entertained.
Americas Best Value Inn & Suites outside of Windsor is another affordable hotel option. The hotel is newly renovated and offers an outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi as well as a free continental breakfast. The rooms have microwaves, mini fridges, coffee maker, and free Wi-Fi. If you are traveling to Windsor with kids and pets, this hotel is a great budget option.
