We stayed at the Fairmont Sonoma for 3 nights in June. Check in was a nightmare! We arrived about 2pm and were told our room was not ready but should be ready by 3:00. So we head out to the pool for a drink to wait. At 3:20, we check on the room again. Nope, room is still not cleaned. That guy gave us the room key anyway and told us he would call our cell phone when housekeeping told him the room was ready. After 4:00, we went to check on the room ourselves. The bed was not made up and it was half cleaned. We saw a housekeeping lady in the all and she said it would be "one more hour". So we waited, still no phone call...at 5:00pm, we asked at the front desk and were told the room was ready and our bags were being sent up right now.

We went to the room, opened the door, and it was still not ready--bed still unmade, etc... So, off to the front desk again begging for a room. Oh, surprise... they did have another room for us. Since it was almost 5:30 at this time, I just wanted my suitcase so we could shower for dinner. They actually allowed me to get my suitcase out of the bell hop's closet and carry all of my luggage by myself to the new room. I was shocked that nobody offered to help. What is a bell hop for???? Unbelievable--no service. This just started us off on the wrong foot.

After that, we did enjoy our room and I used the spa. The spa was great although it could be a bit unorganized too. The ritual bath was not really explained to me well and I had to ask another guest what to do.

We had a dinner at the restaurant one night with a group. It was the longest dinner I have ever had! It took over 4 hours to complete the meal. The food was good, but the service was incredibly slow.

So...overall it was fine. Its not a "Four Seasons" quality place, I would not pay big bucks to stay here again. They need to work on their customer service before I would return.

Three girlfriends in need of a Spa Getaway. We chose FMI because of the location in Sonoma. Enjoyed the personalized service, the casual atmosphere, and of course all of the treatments. Each morning at 8 am we set out with 2 of the greatest guides, Sally and Howard , on different hikes around Sonoma. These hikes are free and you see how beautiful wine country is. The Big 3 diner has the best Lemon Pancakes and outstanding coffee. The hotel has shuttle service til 7pm to the Plaza where you can wine taste, chocolate taste, and choose which great restaurant to eat at. Each day at 4:30-5;30 pm a winery from the surrounding area comes in to give free wine tastings. They also have a great bar where you can get the best filthy dirty martini from Dori or the very different mandarin sting martini from Edward. The spa was great during the week, it wasn't crowded. The signature Facial and the Vanilla Float treatments by far were the best. We will definitely be coming back!!

Above average, but doesn't quite make the mark for leaving an indelible impression as a luxury destination. The property is unique and casually elegant, but the hallways are more expansive than the rooms and it's a bit on the dark, old-looking side. If your preference is modern and energetic appearance, this isn't your destination. If it's a place that would appeal to your parents or grandparents, this fits the stereotype. The service is very good, the furnishings excellent. It is away from the Sonoma downtown and plaza, where the restaurants and shops are, but there is a shuttle provided. Many nice wineries, state parks, and other outdoor activities are nearby. I enjoyed my stay, but I don't think I'll return, given numerous other places to stay in the Northern California Wine Country.

Beautiful hotel! The staff was friendly and helpful. Definitely get a spa treatment and take advantage of the bathing ritual. We had a wonderful dinner at Glen Ellen Inn! Rooms can be pricey during peak season, but well worth the experience.