Weekend Getaway: Kenwood Inn and Spa

Escape is the central element to a good weekend getaway.

That feeling of escape often requires a sense of being transported. Or perhaps, like a good magic trick, a bit of mis-direction and introducing a drop of confusion, then pulling back to reveal oneself.

This is the experience of the Kenwood Inn and Spa.

You know where you are, cruising down the Highway 12 with Vineyard and valley views to the left and right.
Then, unexpectedly, you turn in and find yourself facing a Mediterranean facade of wall and green ivy. You step out of your car to “check in”…

And within moments, the illusion becomes complete, you step into a courtyard with a fountain that cuts the highway noise right out of your head. Then you pass through a vine draped walkway with flowers, with smells, with a giant Mill of sorts mixing water, and your eyes follow the path and then you reach an expansive garden with tables, chairs, a few fire pits (but it’s warm and 75 degrees so you think who needs a fire pit, then you recall the Bay Area and the evening temperatures dipping down to Juno like levels).

The pool with lounge chairs, orange umbrellas, and rustic walls with ivy climbing up every nook and cranny are the final flourish.
You have made it, you are somewhere else.
The escape is complete.
The Magician takes his bow.
And now it is time for dip, and a cold Pacifico beer.