Creating a Haven of Wellness,Joy and Sustainability
On a recent episode of The Wild Party Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Joan and Jeff, the owners of The Stanford Inn. Their journey into innkeeping and their deep commitment to creating a place where guests can reconnect with nature, embrace sustainability, and rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul, is truly inspiring. Here's a glimpse into their story and what makes The Stanford Inn such a unique destination.
If you're anything like me, finding places that align with your values of sustainability, compassion, and ethical living can take some effort. However, every now and then, you stumble upon a gem, a place that not only provides a beautiful escape but also aligns with your mission to support compassionate businesses. My recent discovery of The Stanford Inn & Resort in Mendocino Bay, California, has earned a spot on my must-visit list. This historic farm turned sustainable resort is the perfect embodiment of what I seek in a vacation destination—eco-friendly luxury, plant-based living, and a holistic approach to wellness. And as a bonus, it is also pet friendly, so canine companions are welcome!
A Journey of Passion and Purpose
Joan and Jeff’s journey to innkeeping started back in 1980 when they stumbled upon the Big River Lodge, which would later become The Stanford Inn. What began as a simple desire to live a more integrated, rural lifestyle quickly evolved into something much bigger. Their vision of creating a family-run business that combined work and life in a harmonious way was inspired by Jeff’s background in anthropology and his idealization of the Family Farm model.
They didn’t come into innkeeping with a traditional business plan, but with support from friends and family, they were able to secure the property and transform it into a bed and breakfast. Over the years, their commitment to sustainability grew, leading them to transition from a vegetarian inn to a fully vegan one in 1996. Their awareness of the impact of the dairy and poultry industries on animal welfare played a significant role in this transformation. The result? A sanctuary where guests can enjoy the finest plant-based cuisine while knowing their choices are making a positive impact on the planet.
The Magic of Mendocino Bay
From the moment you turn off the highway onto the winding roads of Mendocino, you’re transported to another world. As Joan described, the landscape feels almost otherworldly—like entering a different dimension. The beauty of the Northern California coast, with its lush forests and breathtaking ocean views, provides the perfect backdrop for a place like The Stanford Inn. It’s no wonder guests often describe their stays as transformative.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or a family in need of some quality time together, The Stanford Inn offers something for everyone. From the luxurious guest rooms and suites, all with private decks, to the variety of wellness programs, there’s no shortage of opportunities to relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect with what matters most.
Ravens Restaurant: A Plant-Based Culinary Experience
One of the standout features of The Stanford Inn is its award-winning Ravens Restaurant, which has garnered national acclaim for its gourmet plant-based cuisine. It has also been featured in O Magazine. Inspired by the vegetables grown on the resort’s certified organic farm, the menu at Ravens is a testament to the beauty and versatility of plant-based food. As Joan and Jeff shared during our conversation, the restaurant is not only about offering delicious meals, but also about educating guests on the importance of sustainability and conscious eating.
Breakfast at Ravens is an experience in itself. Their organic, cooked-to-order dishes range from savory portobello Benedict to a hearty polenta with sundried tomatoes. And if you're a breakfast lover like me, you'll be delighted by the range of creative, satisfying dishes that will leave you wondering why anyone would ever need bacon and eggs.
But it’s not just the food that stands out. Ravens’ wine list is carefully curated to include wines from certified organic vineyards, biodynamic vineyards, and those using traditional farming practices. And of course, all food waste is composted and returned to the gardens, contributing to the resort’s overall commitment to sustainability.
A Place for Wellness and Rejuvenation
Wellness is at the heart of The Stanford Inn experience. The resort offers a range of wellness programs, including daily yoga classes, massage therapy at Massage in the Forest, and outdoor adventures like paddling up Big River in redwood outrigger canoes. Whether you’re looking to relax by the pool, take a walk in the gardens, or engage in one of their creative arts workshops, the focus is always on nurturing the mind, body, and spirit.
Joan shared how the wellness programs at the inn help guests break away from the stresses of daily life and create new habits that support a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle. Their first wellness package, aptly named "Falling in Love with Life Again," aimed to do just that—help people reconnect with their joy and purpose. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters, and places like The Stanford Inn provide the perfect space to slow down, reflect, and recharge.
Creating a Sustainable Future
For Joan and Jeff, running The Stanford Inn is about more than just providing a place for people to stay—it’s about creating a lasting impact. Their commitment to sustainability extends beyond the resort’s operations. They’ve created an educational space where guests can learn about plant-based living, organic farming, and the importance of sustainability in all aspects of life.
Their Environmental Leadership Field School offers educational experiences for those interested in learning more about sustainability and environmental stewardship. And with their extensive bookstore stocked with titles on science, creativity, and vegan living, guests have plenty of opportunities to explore new ideas and expand their knowledge.
A Day at The Stanford Inn
If you’re planning a visit to The Stanford Inn, here’s what a typical day might look like:
Morning: Start your day by stepping out onto your private deck to breathe in the crisp, coastal air. Head to Ravens Restaurant for a leisurely breakfast, where you’ll enjoy dishes like savory crepes with chimichurri sauce or the famed portobello Benedict.
Midday: Take a yoga class, enjoy a relaxing massage, or explore the grounds on foot. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike or canoe and spend the afternoon paddling up Big River or cycling through the nearby woods.
Afternoon: Spend some time browsing the bookstore or join a creative arts workshop to tap into your artistic side. You might also sign up for a cooking or nutrition class to learn more about plant-based living.
Evening: End your day with a delicious plant-based dinner at Ravens, where you can savor seasonal dishes inspired by the resort’s organic farm and local produce.
Plan Your Getaway
Book your holiday travel now at The Stanford Inn & Resort. A true haven for those seeking a sustainable, compassionate, and luxurious escape. Whether you’re looking to reconnect with nature, rejuvenate your body and mind, or simply take a break from the stresses of everyday life, this Northern California gem offers the perfect setting. With its commitment to sustainability, plant-based living, and wellness, The Stanford Inn is more than just a place to stay—it’s a destination that nourishes the soul.
If you’re planning your next vacation, consider adding The The Stanford InnStanford Inn to your list. You’ll not only be supporting a business that aligns with your values, but you’ll also leave feeling more connected, more joyful, and more inspired than ever before.
