Guest Comments

From Deb, April 11,2013

One word: perfection!  I’m a highly aesthetic person and your place is really really outstanding.  I’m the kind of person that usually goes looking around in an area looking at other properties comparing for next time in search of something better.  Your place is 100 cuts above, THANK YOU for sharing it with us.  It is like I’ve imagined this kind of property in my dreams, the central house with little private cottages around.  Just a gorgeous setting and beautiful, rustic, yet modern decor – so peaceful and elegant and comfortable.  The kitchen is perfectly equipped for serious cooks … just awesome!  Are you a tall man?  We think so as the kitchen seems built for tall people – like where the pans are hung.  Thanks again for a perfect setting for my birthday …. you are so blessed to have made your dream a reality … so nice when means and style go hand in hand!  I’d love to hear more about how you brought this place into being if and when you are so inclined.  You have truly honored nature here.

From Gabrielle, March 1, 2013, AirBnb

I almost don’t want to leave a review for Elements because it was so amazing I’m afraid that it’ll get too full and we won’t be able to return! Honestly though, I can’t say enough positive things about the property and our weekend there. It was in immaculate condition and so well thought out. The property is huge and was more than enough room for our party of 8 people to spread out. We all live in San Francisco and the houses were much larger than our combined apartments in the city… We spent a magical weekend cooking in the large and amazingly well appointed kitchen, soaking in the beautiful redwood tub, and drinking sangria in all the little gardens and seats tucked away around the property. We also intended on practicing some yoga in the charming studio but…good intentions only get you so far. Michael was a attentive and well prepared host! He was so flexible and responsive throughout the booking and planning process, giving us so much information which made the pre-weekend planning so easy! I really can’t recommend this property enough and can hardly wait to return!

From David R, January 2013

Michael was a great host with an amazing property ranging from the house itself to the kitchen to the redwood hot tub and fire pit. If you get the chance I’d highly recommend spending time here relaxing away from the city.

From Tracy, December 2, 2012 AirBnb

This was one of the most pleasant travel experiences I have ever had… and that includes my honeymoon in Bali. Michael’s retreat is so serene, so beautifully designed – with attention to detail that includes the vista, the sun exposure at different times of day, the house’s communication with the natural landscape – it will take your breath away. My husband and I, his parents and 91-year-old grandfather, and our 2 young children all comfortably shared this roomy compound and never wanted to leave! We can’t wait to return. Until then, thank you, Michael!!

November 23, 2012

FabulousRetreat

I rented this property for my husband’s 50th birthday. This place exceeded all of my expectations. First of all, the owner could not have been more accommodating. Before I arrived at the property, the owner provided me with great recommendations for my trip. Second of all, the property and surroundings were stunning – a beautiful, private retreat in the middle of giant redwood trees. This property has it all – you never have to leave….. Beautiful outdoor patio, commercial grade grill and indoor kitchen, awesome firepit, jacuzzi (in the middle of the beautiful redwoods), etc. Also, the property was very well kept and clean. I would highly recommend Elements. This place is truly something special and I will be going back again. Thank You Michael. Sincerely, Boop!!

Recommended for: Age 55+,  Adventure Seekers,  Girls Getaway,  Tourists without a Car,  Sightseeing,  Families with Teenagers,  Romantic Getaway

October 20, 2012

Truly a place to find peace

We just returned from a week at the Elements. The photos do not due it justice–it is amazing, tranquil, beautiful, and peaceful place. My husband and I took our daughter, son-in-law and 8 month old grandson. Our family has gone thru a lot over the past few years and this was the vacation we so deperately needed. The Elements was extrenely well maintained and we had everything we needed to cook some amazing meals. The drive may seem long but it is so worth it, and the views are breathtaking around there–I suggest a drive up Hwy 1. We spent the days exploring the vineyards, site-seeing, and came back in the evenings to a hot tub, fire, and a great glass of wine. The owner, Michael, made our stay incredible. He was always helpful and offered great suggestions for restaurants. You must eat at River’s End–where the Russian River meets the Pacific- the view is incredible at Sunset–we ate there twice and the food was amazing. Also check out Raymond’s Bakery–the cinnamon rolls are incredible. I will definitely recommend the Elements to our family and friends and I am looking forward to planning another trip there.

Recommended for: Age 55+,  Pet-friendly,  Adventure Seekers,  Girls Getaway,  Sightseeing,  Families with Teenagers,  Families with Young Children,  People with Disabilities,  Romantic Getaway

October 15, 2012

Perfect Family Retreat

A WONDERFUL RETREAT

Review Submitted July 10, 2012 Date of Stay June 30, 2012
The winding road through the rural mountainside lets you know you are nowhere near the grind of the city. The location was perfect to enjoy private time with the family yet partake in a variety of activities as challenging or sedate as one chooses. The facilities were extremely comfortable for our party of eight adults. The pictures are all accurate but you cannot truly capture the the asthetics and physical relaxation we enjoyed observing an artistically lighted landscape from the relaxing hot tub. Michael knows the area and had some good suggestions. This was the best vacation I have yet to experience, the only downside is that future adventures will be hard to meet these standards.

REUNION IN THE REDWOODS

Review Submitted July 10, 2012 Date of Stay June 17, 2012
Often the Internet depiction of a property doesn’t square with reality. The Elements exceeded expectations in every way. Michael, the owner, has created an eight plus acre mini-resort, replete with oversized bathrooms with multiple shower heads, four ultra-comfortable king & queen beds, large screen TVs, hot tub, meditation garden, yoga studio, and a massive kitchen with commercial grade appliances. All of this in a setting among the redwoods with abundant places to relax in the sun, or step into a nearby redwood stand to cool down. We were celebrating a mini-family reunion–8 adults–and everyone had a thoroughly enjoyable time. The property’s location is also excellent, about 15 minutes to Guerneville and the same to Jenner and the coast. The Elements is a little slice nature, with all the comforts of home. We will definitely be back.

May 23 through May 28, 2012

ATTENTION TO DETAIL

This was one of the most pleasant travel experiences I have ever had… and that includes my honeymoon in Bali. Michael’s retreat is so serene, so beautifully designed – with attention to detail that includes the vista, the sun exposure at different times of day, the house’s communication with the natural landscape – it will take your breath away. My husband and I, his parents and 91-year-old grandfather, and our 2 young children all comfortably shared this roomy compound and never wanted to leave! We can’t wait to return. Until then, thank you, Michael!!

May 18 through May 22, 2012

oasis of silence and well-being

This gorgeous home is an oasis of silence and well-being. We thoroughly enjoyed the spacious home with its striking interior design and artistic décor. The kitchen is so well equipped. The grounds are equally breathtaking. We had eight people in our party. The main house, guest house and cabin afforded everyone their privacy. Michael has thought of every luxurious detail. He was a great communicator and wonderful to work with. We hope to return soon!

Theresa

May 3 through May 7

highly recommend

First and foremost, know that Michael is a formidable host, thoughtful, attentive and responsive. His house is unbelievably well cared for, and everything you see when looking at the pictures, nothing hidden here. We were six friends reuniting and found the property served our needs well with a great kitchen, lots of areas to sit and lounge both inside and out, and a great and very clean redwood hot tub nestled in the woods by a creek. We felt completely comfortable at all times on the property. Great audio set up for watching movies, listening to music or using your iPad to watch various downloads via Airplay. (Note there are only four beds, yet in our circumstance it worked out, though probably best for three to four people or couples in general.) Highly recommend this place.

better than the pictures

April 25 through April 30, 2012

I wanted to say thank you for opening your home to our group! It was even
more beautiful than the pictures….which is hard to imagine.
You have a spectacular home…and honestly…I am saddened to be leaving. This
was one of the best trips I have ever been on!
As a thank you we also left you 2 bottles of wine. I hope you enjoy them as
much as we enjoyed your home.
Thank you again,
Randi

“perfect weekend”

Rating:

5 out of 5

Fantastic Holiday Retreat
Erin and George Coan coronado, ca
Review Submitted December 4, 2011 Date of Stay November 19, 2011
We vacationed at Elements with a group of 6 adults, one infant and our dogs. Our stay was nothing short of amazing! The location of the property is perfect, nestled in the woods, but close to the coast and wineries. Michael accommodated our all of group’s needs and remained in touch with us throughout our stay. Having the three separate living spaces gave everyone the space they needed, but allowed us all to hang out together anytime we wanted. The hot soaking tub was perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine on a chilly fall night. The kitchen is well appointed with most everything needed to make perfect wine country gourmet dinners. Overall an amazing place to spend a holiday vacation and a good value as well. Raymond’s Bakery in Cazadero is a must!

 

Mini family reunion at Elements

7/25/2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Secluded Redwood Compound…Amazing!

Guest: Sonoma Lover (Pickerington, Ohio)
Date of Stay: July 9, 2011 Review Submitted: July 25, 2011

A group of eight (4 couples) rented this 3 unit compound for the week of July 9th. What an amazing property. Everything outlined in the VRBO site and Owners Website is accurate. It’s a very special place with out all the noise and neighbors of nearby Guerneville. 5 miles or so to town or the Ocean. And two miles or so to Raymond’s Bakery (amazing pizza). Breakfast at nearby Sam’s Holey Cow is not to be missed…but you won’t want to leave this fully equiped gormet kitchen. The grill, outdoor living areas, redwood soaking tub and redwood deck (with stream) are special places to take in this magical area. The compound (as we called it) is really a 3 bedroom (but 4th bedroom is a nice king pullout couch with flatscreen TV). Very nice for 4 couples….would totally stay here again and Michael the owner is so helpful. He quickly returns emails, answers questions about the stay and follows up to make sure we are happy all via email. I’ve rented a few high end properties in the area over the past few years and this is by far the best. Relax and Enjoy the views! p.s. be sure to walk down the hill and across the street to creek hop on Cazadero Creek…very sweet!

Recommended for: Age 55+, Pet owners, Adventure seekers, Girls getaway, Families with teenagers, Families with young children, People with disabilities, Romantic getaway

5/25/2011

Great getaway close to the city

Guest: Peter (San Francisco)
Date of Stay: May 25, 2011 Review Submitted: June 12, 2011

We rented this property for friends and family from out of town to celebrate a birthday. It was a wonderful location to bring together multiple generations. The Elements is a gracious host. Generously giving space and facilitating conversation and good times. The beautiful grounds and appointments are the perfect place for a large family group to gather and celebrate. We had nine adults and one child. The property allowed us to all be together and when we wanted to have our own separate spaces. Michael was extremely helpful, offering contacts for catering and information on local sights and events. If you travel with an infant/toddler, you will need to bring a high chair and pack-n-play. We enjoyed the Elements immensely and hope you will too.

Recommended for: Families with young children

5/12/2011

A weekend at The Elements

Guest: HappyinAustin (Austin,TX)
Date of Stay: May 6, 2011 Review Submitted: May 12, 2011

My husband and I and two other couples stayed at The Elements May 6-8, 2011. We stayed one evening at Solage Calistoga and had an amazing time, then it was time to drive West to The Elements. I was worried that maybe I had made the wrong decision and should have stayed at the hotel the entire 3-day weekend. Then we arrived. For one, the property was gorgeous: up on a hill surrounded by beautiful redwoods, stream running nearby, and the gorgeous view of surrounding mountains. Each house was immaculate and well-appointed with everything we needed and more, and the outdoor entertainment areas were fabulous. My absolute favorite piece of this property was the hot tub area. A deep, wooden hot tub built into a deck surrounded by redwoods (just as the photo shows). The lighting is perfect and made the experience complete. We could see the beautiful trees and the stars above us. We were able to spend a day driving around the area and easily made it down to Bodega Bay for beautiful views of the coastline, then to Guerneville to Boon eat+drink (yum!), and on to wineries and dinner in Healdsburg. Despite the remoteness of The Elements, we felt that we easily enjoyed the Russian River Valley. The combination of one night in Napa Valley and two at The Elements made our trip perfect. I wanted two completely different environments in one short trip, and I came home so well-rested and refreshed! Michael was very nice and accommodating despite my late arrival, took the time to show us around, and even set up our cell phones on his 3G MicroCell signal booster. One more note: make sure you make it down to Raymond’s Bakery. Wonderful breads and pastries (and the pizza looked so good, but didn’t get to try any). Raymond and his family, and the staff were extremely welcoming and sweet!

Owner response: I am sometimes forgetful about asking guests for a review, I now how important time is these days. But when I see a response like Jamie’s, I get a real sense of satisfaction. I want guests to enjoy Elements like I do, and to really enjoy its incredible serenity. I agree with Jamie about Raymonds Bakery, and Boon Eat and Drink. But Jamie was here for only two days and just began to experience the real magic. When you stay longer, you really understand that time here seems to move slower, and you smile more often.

5/5/2011

Hidden Gem

Guest: Anup (Mountain View, CA)
Date of Stay: April 29, 2011 Review Submitted: May 6, 2011

Cazadero is not exactly a well known place to rest while enjoying the wine country in the Russian River Valley or the Sonoma Coast. This beautiful, peaceful abode hidden on a winding but beautiful road adjoining the Austin Creek, is a great place to unwind with some good friends while enjoying the bountiful liquid nourishment of the region. A few friends and I stayed at “The Elements” over a weekend recently and had a fantastic time at the house. It consists of three separate but adjoining buildings. The main building has a great kitchen and is ideal for those who like to cook as the equipment is all commercial-grade. We were a group of guys traveling without our families trying to relive our days from grad school. In the evenings, we lit the fire in the pit outside and at night, we soaked in the hot tub set in the middle of a fairy ring of redwoods while watching the stars on a cloudless sky. The host Michael was there to greet us when we arrived on a Friday afternoon and was kind enough to give us a tour of the place and explain everything in detail. On one of the days, we hired a limo for an all-day wine tour of the wineries in the region and the limo came all the way up to the house (there is a steep grade to reach the house from Austin Creek Road). If you plan to stay here, you should get advice from Michael about which wineries to visit.

Owner response: I am always delighted to know that my guests enjoy Elements, and the surrounding locales. Its always a pleasure t to help guests with their plans, especially since I know the area so well. There are so many places to see and great restaurants that I often find the choices overwhelming. Visitors to Sonoma all “know” about the well known spots, its a pleasure to share the special spots or services that make the difference in a special getaway.
Thanks Anup for such a great review! I hope you return again soon.

9/10/10

If you’ve been searching for a vacation rental in California’s wine country, look no further. Minutes from world-class wineries, coastal parks, and quaint towns, Elements is a handsome, private and well thought out retreat nestled within the beauty and quiet of the redwood forest. Enjoy some of the most stunning scenery our country has to offer. Elements will enchant you, and upon departure, leave you wondering when you will be returning. A week simply is not enough time to explore the region and to relax and enjoy the experience of Elements. With our large group, Elements provided areas inside and out where everyone could enjoy each other’s company. Or, if one would wish to break off from the group, find solitude and relax, there were many options – the hammock being one of the favorites. Our family particularly loved (and are envious of) the professional grade kitchen where we cooked many delicious meals. Everything we needed was right there, including a fire pit under the stars when dessert was served. We would like to especially thank our gracious host Michael who made our Elements experience complete with his hospitality and attentiveness. Although he was not able to greet our family in person, a long distance call from the other side of the globe to check in on our family was not out of the question for Michael. A comfortable and memorable stay his priority. Thank you Michael. Terri and family September, 2010

8/19/2010

We had three couples, all with kids, plus baby sitter. Michael steered us in the direction of the Auld’s cabin (end of the driveway) for the third couple, which worked out wonderfully.

Elements is truly beautiful, more even than in the website pictures. The level of thought and integration that went into the design of this property is really impressive. Everything is well-thought out without anything being over-the-top. It all produces a remarkable sense of serenity on the property. It seems like you are always in the redwoods, even when you are inside. Our kids played on the property and down at the creek and were never at a loss for things to do. As for the adults, Elements is an awesome jumping-off point for just about anything that you might want to do. We did a fair amount of wine tasting (Russian River, Alexander Valley, Carneros, and even a day in Napa), but we also spent time in the nearby forests, went to the beach, and visited some of the local towns.

A few recommendations from Michael that we second: Go to Raymond’s bakery – the fruit pastries are killer and Friday pizza night is a great family activity. If wine-touring, stop in at Sophie’s Wine Shop, they are knowledgeable about the local wines and the wineries, and can recommend good visits and provide complementary tasting cards. We’d also recommend Stumphouse for good beer and comfort food.

As you can tell we had a great time.

Alan and family

7/25/2010

Hi Michael

6/25/2010

Eight women headed up to the wine country to celebrate the 60th birthday of
our good friend, Toni. I looked at about 100 places to stay and this by far
won out. We were greeted by Michael, given the grand tour and were amazed
to all the detail put into making it the special place it is. We took advantage of
all the amenities–the outdoor kitchen, soaking tub, beautiful patio views
and the new tree house, where we enjoyed the sound of the waterfall. If you
like to cook, you will find a well stocked kitchen and plenty of space to enjoy a
meal. It is a wonderful house to create memories to last a lifetime. Thanks
Michael, for sharing this special place.
guest name: kookielo5
guest city-state/province: Huntington Beach, Ca.

6/19/2010

Group vacations can be tricky, but Elements provided a perfect setting for us.
There was just enough space to allow privacy for each of our 3 couples, while
maintaining a cozy cabin feeling. A luxurious cabin for sure! As we were
sitting around the fire pit roasting marshmallows one night, we deemed
Elements the perfect place for “glamping” — glamorous camping! You’re both
surrounded by nature and in the lap of luxury! You can sit around the fire,
relax in the redwood soaking tub, nap in the hammock, or just enjoy the
beautiful grounds. You feel totally secluded, yet you can be at a lovely
Russian River Valley winery in less than an hour. There are tons of activities
nearby — Armstrong Redwood preserve, beaches, creeks, wineries, farmers’
markets, and plenty of quaint little towns if you need a little shopping or a
great restaurant. Elements is in a perfect location, though you may not want
to leave once you arrive! Also worth noting, we loved cooking at Elements,
and found the kitchen to be very well-equipped. Elements is a magical place.
Surrounded by beautiful Redwoods, its a bit like a treehouse for grown-ups!
On the last day as were preparing to leave, we realized that we hadn’t turned
on the TV one time. Elements is truly a very special retreat, and we can’t wait
to return!
guest name: kimberly30
guest city-state/province: Austin, Tx6/7/2010

Thank you so much for sharing your amazing retreat with us! We had an amazing weekend and hope to return. We love everything about Elements and this magical little corner of California. Thank you again, you’ve really created a special place.

kimberly, amanda, jennifer, jay, jason and brad

4/4/2010

_________________

Jasmin and Steve P.

We recently stayed at The Elements for my husband’s 40th birthday surprise weekend. And what an incredible surprise indeed! The Elements far exceeded all our expectations.

We had a total of 4 couples, and the property allowed plenty oof room for gatherings, as well as peaceful moments alone.

The speciall touches and attention to detail throughout the prpoperty were so appreciated, and you can tell that the property owner Michael has taken a careful hand to create an envoirment that blends daily necessities with that of the natural surroundings.

The grounds are impressive, yet unintimidating. Set high and amongst the redwoods…the views are stunning. (We cant wait to see the finished safari tent lookout!

We highly recommend a visit and extended stay at The Elements! Thank you again Michael!

-Jamsine and Steve P

03/26/2010

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Mary Donate (Minn, Mn.)

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This was the most amazing place to stay with my friends. 6 of us girls, went here for my 50th birthday, and stayed for 3 nights. We all wish we had an extra day to just stay put and enjoy the grounds. We cooked in every evening and enjoyed the outdoor fire pit, the hot tub and the serenity of property. It was perfect – we were already discussing coming back. We had a great day at the wineries, another day at the ocean (very close) – What a great place to enjoy company and still have your own space. Michael was wonderful, accomodating and ever so helpful with references. Thank you for sharing this with everyone!

Mary

• Randi and Richard , Salinas,
• We had an incredible week long stay here and it was to short! Starting off with time alone and then friends and family rolling in for the party. Everyone was thrilled with the feeling that Elements gives even as you drive up the driveway, and then stepping out into the artistry of the landscape that surrounds! No one wanted to leave even the teenagers. We woke in the morning with peace and the incredible smells of redwoods in the rain and the sounds of the creek. It was also amazing in the hot tub when the rain was pouring down. The area is gorgeous and so much we didn’t do because we were captured by the magic of Elements. So now we must work out another time to get back and explore more deeply. With sincere admiration and thanks to Michael, and Oliver! We loved it! Randi and Richard
• 12/06/09
  Silvia Vaughn , Mission Viejo
• The Elements is an Amazing Place to vacation, to party, to rest, and or to retire. Our Family reunion was a success, we enjoyed every bit of the property, the pictures do not make Justice, this is Heaven on Earth. Thanks Michael for having such a sublime place to share with us, your style is appreciated, and we will see you again soon. From: Silvia, Gibson and family.
• 08/31/09
  G.Beck , San Francisco,
• The Elements was every bit as idyllic as it looks in these photos. Our group of 10 spent a lovely long weekend enjoying every aspect of this gorgeous place — sunning and BBQing on the deck, soaking in the tub, whipping up feasts, and sitting around the fire pit until late in the evening. It doesn’t get much better than this.
• 07/30/09
  Sandra Proctor , San Francisco
• How does one describe a feeling of peace that transcends the physical and inhabits every part of your being? Simply sublime, a feast for your senses! I celebrated my 50th birthday at Elements. From the first moment I arrived, I knew this was going to be a life-changing place. It was important to me that my party venue have the perfect balance of tranquility, beauty, nature, style, comfort, and luxury; Elements did not disappoint. In fact, it far exceeded my expectations. Michael, the owner is a delightful person. He addressed all my questions and concerns and was extremely helpful when it came to suggesting local activities, restaurants and favorite shops. He magically merged rustic beauty with sophisticated style. I wanted a place where I could entertain my friends in luxury and comfort, and give them the feeling of being in a secluded forest setting enchanted by the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains, and towering redwoods, yet provide them all the “creature comforts” of a spa resort where they could relax and unwind. We also enjoyed Austin Creek’s many swimming holes, just a short walk from the property. True to its namesake, Michael created a perfect blend of all nature’s elements: wood, water, earth, fire, and air. Whether you are looking for solitude, intimacy, celebration or assembly, Elements provides a full spectrum of experiences. I can’t wait to return!
• 07/15/09
  San Francisco,
• I spent a weekend here with 10 close friends for a girl’s retreat weekend. Everyone in the group agreed that it was the most fabulous getaway. The home is absolutely beautiful and incredibily comfortable. The beds are dreamy, the place is warm yet airy, the kitchen is a chef’s dream, and the hot tub is a pleasure. We spent our time grilling, cooking, sitting in the sun, and swinging in the hammock. The sounds of the birds and flirting squirrels were the extent of our distractions. We made plans to do all sorts of activities in the area, but due to the completely wonderful time we were having at the house, we ended up spending the entire weekend at the house. This is a perfect place for a group of 8 – 12, families (granted one must keep an eye on the little ones), and reunions. Everyone in the group vows to come back to this oasis.