Photo credit: Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa
There aren’t many resorts remaining today like the privately owned Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa. Built in the 50s, the architecture and layout have a swanky retro-vibe, and it remains a graceful, fully modern facility with all the amenities. The hotel prides itself on being an affordable, full-service, destination resort, set in the Northern California Wine Country. It reminds us of a bygone era – a time when luxury and great service were the standard at resorts – and it continues to hold on to that “special something.”
On a recent tour of the hotel given by Director of Sales and Marketing, Dan Brown, I discovered what the Flamingo – topped by its iconic pink flamingo sign – has to offer behind its unassuming exterior: an elegant property made even more distinctive by its many options to keep you fit, healthy and feeling fabulous while you’re away.
The property
Photo credit: Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa
Guest rooms: Stay in one of 170 rooms – all non-smoking. All standard deluxe rooms offer contemporary, crisp white linens, flat-screen TVs, a mini refrigerator, coffee/tea makers and either a king, or two double beds. For an extra $20, guests can upgrade to an Executive King room that includes a sofa-bed sleeper and a larger bathroom. In addition, there are 14 suites that have a king or two queen beds and sliding patio doors with easy poolside access during the warmer months. These sought-after suites will be remodeled in spring of 2012, just in time for the swim season. You can also bring Fido along, too (with advance notice) because the hotel has several pet-friendly rooms with laminate flooring and convenient outdoor access.
Meetings and parties: If you’re scouting locations for a private party, business meeting, wedding or anniversary, note that the resort has 15 rooms for group gatherings, with a total of 15,000 square feet of conference space throughout the property. The majority of these rooms are conveniently located off the main lobby, across and adjacent to each other, providing easy in/out access and a more sociable atmosphere for your event.
Photo credit: Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa
Swimming and lounging: Grab your sunscreen and lounge poolside while the kids splash and play. The resort’s sprawling Olympic size pool has plenty of room for everyone to swim. During the warmer months, May through October, dozens of umbrellas and lounge chairs surround the pool deck awaiting you and your latest novel. During summer, sip on cocktails served poolside – now that’s service!
Photo credit: Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa
Restaurants: The hotel features the Terrace Grille – a popular, reasonably priced restaurant. The restaurant overlooks the chic pool, lush lawns, and mature trees. Covered, outdoor poolside seating is available May through October for breakfast, brunch (Sundays), lunch and dinner. Sundays, guests can sample one of the best brunches in Sonoma County at the Terrace Grille. In addition to its regular diverse menu, the restaurant proudly presents diabetic-friendly, vegan, vegetarian and McDougall entrées, as well as notable specials.
Guests can also walk across the street to IHOP or Hank’s Creekside Café – made famous after being featured on chef Guy Fieri’s Food Network TV show “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.”
The Lounge: Among one of Santa Rosa’s most lively, favorite hot-spots, the Flamingo Lounge provides live entertainment, dancing, Karaoke (Wednesdays and Thursdays) and a full bar with great service. Happy hour drinks and appetizers are available, too.
Artwork: The Ehret family – owners of Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa – has amassed the largest private collection of “Peanuts” sculptures in Sonoma County, which are displayed throughout the property. It’s a cheerful nod to the legendary one-time Santa Rosa resident Charles “Sparky” Schulz and the beloved “Peanuts” gang he illustrated.
Rates: The Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa is surprisingly affordable year-round. However, weekdays are always the best days to find awesome deals. As with any hotel, rates fluctuate. To find their latest specials, visit their website and click on “room specials.” Now through February 16, book a room during their “Wine Country Winter” special: $89 on weekdays or $99 on weekends. The deal must be booked through their online reservations.
Convenience: The resort is located within easy walking distance to the upscale Montgomery Village – an outdoor, boutique mall with several restaurants. It’s also located adjacent to CVS pharmacy and Safeway, convenient for purchasing that forgotten toothbrush, late-night bag of munchies or a bottle of Sonoma County wine or champagne to drink in your room.
Health and Fitness
Photo credit: Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa/Montecito Heights Health and Raquet Club
Montecito Heights Health and Racquet Club: The resort boasts the Montecito Heights Health and Racquet Club, and guests are welcome to use these superb facilities for a nominal fee. Tennis courts are available to guests at no charge. The 20,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility includes Cybex equipment, a spinning room, free weights, group exercise classes, personal trainers and more. There’s also a full schedule of invigorating classes, such as yoga and pilates. Childcare is also available during your workout (for a fee) in a fun, safe environment. The club’s 25-meter heated lap pool remains at 80 degrees year-round. After your invigorating workout, kick back for a steam or sauna, and shower in the luxurious locker rooms. If you’re feeling thirsty, order healthful juices, coffee, water, a beer or glass of wine at the club’s beverage bar.
Photo credit: Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa/The Spa at Montecito Heights
The Spa at Montecito Heights: Peace of mind and body can be found at this European-style spa. Choose from menu options like: Vichy rainwater treatments and body scrubs, several types of massage, manicures, pedicures and facials. Take advantage of the relaxation room and sunning deck, too. The spa is also a luxurious setting for bridal parties to get prepped for the big day, or for moms or girlfriends seeking a relaxing getaway. For reservations at The Spa at Montecito Heights, please call (707) 526-0529.
If you’re planning a getaway to Santa Rosa and Northern California Wine Country, consider staying at Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa. It has all the amenities to leave you feeling taken care of – the way a true resort experience should.
The Flamingo Conference Resort and Spa is located in Santa Rosa at 2777 Fourth Street. For reservations and information, please call the resort at (707) 545-8530.
