RUTHERFORD. Like a Tuscan manor, this inn sits in stately elegance atop a hill overlooking an olive grove and the lush valley below. Each of the 50 guest rooms and suites is immaculately appointed, and standard amenities include private terrace, DVD and CD player, toaster, king-sized bed with Frette linens, fireplace, and fully stocked honor bar and refrigerator. A variety of guest rooms is available - twin rooms all the way to private cottages. Guests enjoy leisure facilities too: a full-service spa, fitness center, outdoor pool and sundeck, lighted tennis courts, and sculpture garden. Event space for 50.

HEALDSBURG. One of Healdsburg's more noteworthy ­ and frenetic ­ eateries, Bistro Ralph is the type of place that patrons turn to for big celebration nights. Since space is at a premium and since white brick walls and a metal ceiling intensify crowd noise, the restaurant is certainly not one of the Wine Country's "romantic hideaways." The daily menu is anything but generic, tantalizing patrons with inventive, globally-influenced dishes. For example, a meal may start off in China (calamari seasoned with Szechwan pepper) and move to Europe with a focaccia puff, a hot cup of lobster bisque, or a mouthwatering duck confit. Enjoy the culinary adventure to its utmost.

HEALDSBURG. Sophisticated but quirky and casual ­ if you fancy porcine motifs, that is ­ this snug Healdsburg cafe is known for friendly atmosphere and terrific French-Med (with a Cali touch) cuisine. Dishes that earn particular nods include house-cured pork tenderloin with brandy sauce (ironically enough, the only pork dish on the menu), chicken strips piccata in lemon-caper sauce, and fusilli with smoked chicken and basil cream sauce. Since seating is limited, reservations are suggested.

YOUNTVILLE. Adjacent to extremely popular Hurley's restaurant is this gem of a bar, an exercise in understated elegance. Dark woods and a high ceiling create a refined space that opens onto a pleasant patio, shaded by hanging greenery and umbrellas. Wines by the glass are priced reasonably, and cocktails and beers are also available. Naturally, the food is amazing, even the late-night menu ­ options include Belle River crab cakes, a grilled venison sandwich, and a variety of tantalizing desserts. Great people-watching, too.

RUTHERFORD. Reminiscent of a Tuscan manor, this inn sits in stately elegance atop a hill, as if keeping watch over olive groves and the lush valley below. The inn's restaurant, carrying through the theme, offers a romantic respite from the real world. While dining on fabulous French-Mediterranean fare, guests are treated to spectacular views and professional, first-rate service. The seasonal menu features everything from sautéed sweetbreads and roasted squab to sesame-crusted Tombo tuna and Watson Farm lamb. Al fresco dining is available, and reservations are a must.