Eden Vale Inn

1780 Springvale Road, Placerville, California 95667
Innkeeper(s): Gayle & Mark
 
  • Introduction

    Relax By The Cozy Fire
    Retreat to the Most Romantic Getaway in Northern California. Named one of “America’s Top 10 Most Romantic Inns,” Eden Vale Inn near Placerville is your choice for the best romantic B&B. We are conveniently located between Placerville and Coloma, California. Our beautiful Gold Country Bed and Breakfast lodging includes seven contemporary guest rooms with private luxury baths, acres of Sierra Foothills gardens and a beautiful swimming pond. Each accommodation has been designed and built as a guest room with all the modern conveniences and a unique decorative style to soothe your senses and spirit. You can wander the extensive grounds and experience the intimacy of the beautifully landscaped gardens and pond. Then feed your romantic spirit by sipping Sierra Foothills Wines in front of your fireplace and by soaking in your own private couple’s outdoor soaking tub.

    Enjoy A Delicious Breakfast Each Morning

    This superb Sierra Foothills bed and breakfast setting puts you just minutes from historic Placerville and Coloma, the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, California’s Historic Hwy 49 (the Gold Country Highway), American River white water rafting, the Apple Hill Harvest, Placerville, Coloma and Cameron Park Dining, Shopping, and our award winning Sierra Foothills wineries. The Sierra Foothills Wineries, led by El Dorado County, earned bragging rights this year by winning 51 Gold and Double Gold prizes for their red wines at the 2011 California State Fair, more than Napa and Sonoma combined! Eden Vale Inn personifies the new El Dorado – a place whose richness and abundance is now measured in a lot more than California gold.

    Garden Patio
    Media Kudos

    Newspapers

    ”One of the premier inns of the foothills” - The Sacramento Bee
    “Timbered ceilings soar 27 feet” - San Francisco Chronicle
    “Relax in rustic elegance” - Mountain Democrat


    Magazines

    “Unforgettable experience of rustic refinement” - sactown Magazine

    Travel Guides

    “most respected and recommended by locals” - National Geographic
    100 best affordable vacations
    Pour Me Another
    "upscale, modern - yet rustic retreat" - California Wine Country


    Awards

    “Best Bed and Breakfast around" - Mountain Democrat Readers' Choice 2011
    Small Business of the Year Award 2010 - SEDCorp

    Experience Peace & Tranquility

    Discover a romantic retreat unlike any other Bed and Breakfast Inn. Eden Vale Inn, one of America’s Top 10 Most Romantic Inns, is nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills near the gold rush town of Placerville, California. Stylishly tranquil yet, central to many sights and activities in El Dorado County’s Gold Country. Acres of gardens, a swimming pond, sophisticated service and comforts are all available at Eden Vale Inn in the heart of the Sierra Nevada Gold Country. Romantic intimate settings include your Couples Deep Soaking Spa Tubs on your deck or patio and, reading chairs by your in-room fireplace. The Sacramento Bee says “the inn feels more like a resort than a bed and breakfast, except for the immediate casual, congenial air...” Some guests come and just hang here for days to relax and recharge. Others mix some of the many Sierra Foothills romantic getaway activities into their stay.

    Eden Vale Inn - Placerville, California


    Eden Vale Inn B&B Is Surrounded by the History of the American West

    Nestled in a timeless rustic landscape, one where the American Indians came to camp, hunt and collect California acorns, you can relax at this destination resort or within a short drive enjoy many different activities. Nearby one can find the California Gold Discovery site, the Pony Express trail, some of the earliest California Vineyards and Wineries, the first Japanese Colony in America at the Wakumatsu Silk Farm, and the Transcontinental Railroad that still operates from Sacramento over Donner Summit and down to Reno. Nearby, the South Fork of the American River is one of the most popular white water rivers in the country. Excellent hiking and bicycling, in parks and on country roads, are available year round. Red Hawk Casino is only seven miles away. In the fall, our Indian Summer basks the Apple Hill harvest for thousands of visitors, who enjoy the fruits of family farms and vineyards. For the wine tasters, there are over 80 award-winning wineries within an hour’s drive in El Dorado County and the Shenandoah Valley of Amador County.

    Guest Common Room


    The History of the Eden Vale Inn Bed and Breakfast in Placerville

    Eden Vale Inn Bed and Breakfast, near Placerville and Coloma, began as a classic California hay barn built in 1919. The hay barn was central to the Williamson dairy farm. The Williamsons were pioneer settlers in the valley beginning in the 1880’s. Hector Williamson, of the second generation, built the barn in 1919. The dairy closed operations in the 1950’s and the barn and land sat vacant until Mark and Gayle, the current owners, purchased the property in 1985. First they converted the barn into a warm and inviting home; that home is now the main building of this upscale bed and breakfast inn. And, to anticipate the question, no they did not plan it that way from the beginning; rather, the building and grounds have been a quarter century in evolution from a hay barn to a luxury B&B. By late 2006 the owners began to think of transforming their home into a B&B. In the process they consulted with experts including architects, a B&B consultant, engineers, a biologist, a lighting designer and many more. They took a class in January 2007 for aspiring innkeepers from the California Association of Bed and Breakfast Inns (CABBI) and never looked back. Extensive renovations were undertaken, especially to all the guest rooms. Floor space was opened, walls were gutted and removed and all new guest rooms were built.

    Now this Sierra Foothills Bed and Breakfast Inn is like no other. The Inn’s mixture of rustic and ultra-modern features and technology, the extensive gardens and outdoor living areas, the pond that stays full and supports a healthy population of trout, and the ubiquitous artistic renderings, inside and out, make this property one of a kind. The bones of the old barn provide the inn with unmatched character. The old barn’s frame, now carefully preserved and featured, are rough sawn beams and timbers cut from old growth Sierra Nevada forests. The renovations are both modern and authentic. For example, the large rock fireplace weighs about 40 tons; and the slate rock skin was hand- picked from the nearby Chili Bar Quarry on the American River. The fireplace dominates the main living area and enhances the view of the soaring Sierra pine and cedar timbered ceilings.

    Beautiful Surroundings
    The Eden Vale Innkeepers: Mark and Gayle

    In 1985, this newly wedded couple decided to make the California Foothills, specifically the Gold Country, their home. They searched for property and found ten acres near Placerville. In their eyes the site had potential. The property had an abundance of rocks, no vegetation except for grass and a few trees, a spring, and a solid classical California hay barn. Captivated by the barn’s spacious open interiors, and inspired by similar conversions in a book titled “Living Barns”, the couple took on a project that continually grows in scope and vision.

    Their wonderful adventure has not just transformed a barn into a beautiful home, but a rocky abused landscape into a garden estate. The bulk of this work, converting the barn and, building the gardens, occurred while they both had day jobs. During Gayle’s 26-year career in public service, her weekend meditation was working in the garden. Mark has had a long business career, first working for large companies and, then engaging in entrepreneurial ventures since the early 90’s. He likes to build things whether a business, home, fireplace or pond. He also keeps Gayle’s garden watered in the dry summer with an extensive water works of tanks, valves, pumps and timers.

    The home and gardens have been featured many times on garden tours and in publications. Mark and Gayle delight in sharing their beautiful creation with others. Guests often comment as to how comfortable and peaceful they feel on the property. That’s just the way Mark and Gayle like it, guests should feel at home.

    Dining Room
    Dining at Eden Vale Inn

    Enjoy a Full Gourmet Breakfast at Eden Vale Inn in El Dorado County

    Breakfast at Eden Vale Inn highlights the bounty of local produce, much of which is grown along the El Dorado County Farm Trails or right here at Eden Vale Inn. A California cuisine menu includes fruit fresh from Apple Hill and local El Dorado County farms. An Eden Vale Inn breakfast will satisfy all palates from hearty to light fare or on the go. Eden Vale endeavors to accommodate the specific dietary and scheduling needs of our guests. Each morning a seasonally changing full breakfast is served buffet style in a room filled with the morning sun. You can enjoy your meal on one of our many patios, decks or sunrooms. Specials of the house are many but include tender, hot out of the oven scones, scrumptious blueberry buttermilk pancakes, with local blueberries from Georgetown, fresh squeezed juice from locally grown oranges, and flaky quiches made with just picked tomatoes and herbs from the garden. A rich and rewarding cup of Sacramento’s award winning Temple gourmet coffee helps start your day right. Coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are available throughout the day. Regional and global newspapers delivered daily.

    Upscale and Modern Rooms

    Guests ooh and ahh when the door opens to their room because they are pleasantly surprised with the clean modern styling of our accommodations. Moreover, each room has a unique, tasteful and sophisticated décor. This is no accident. When converting to a B&B in 2007-09, we started with an empty floor plan and sought the advice of many experts. The rooms were designed and built, from beginning to end, to fulfill the needs of discriminating travelers and to provide a romantic experience for couples.

    Nature's Beauty

     

    Amenities - Complimentary At Eden Vale Inn

    All B&B Guest Rooms Feature
    Private Garden Entrances with Outdoor Seating
    Private Luxury Bathrooms with Grohe Fixtures
    Romantic Gas Fireplaces and Reading Chairs
    Mattresses so Comfortable Guests Ask to Buy Them
    Room Specific Air Conditioning and Heating
    State of the Art: Lighting and Soundproofing
    Gilchrist and Soames Bath Products
    High Quality Linens, Towels, & Robes
    Hairdryer and Iron
    Access to Guest Kitchenettes with Refrigerator, Ice Machine and Microwave
    Complimentary Wi-Fi & Telephone
    Complimentary HDTV & DVD-BluRay
    Fire Sprinklers


    Many features in our rooms you won’t find in five-star-hotels, such as: advanced soundproofing, a fully designed and computerized lighting system, gas fireplaces, top of the line plumbing in showers and vanities, deep couples soaking tubs on private decks and patios, interior and exterior entrances, complimentary telephone service to anywhere in the US, Wi-Fi, HDTV-BluRay-DVD, and a full gourmet breakfast.

  • Spa Services

    Spa Studio

    Eden Vale Inn and Spa near Placerville offers several massage therapy options to help you wind down and reinvigorate. Your certified and licensed massage therapist will consult with you to individualize your massage.

    Togetherness
    1 hour Couples Massage
    with hot towels. $198

    Make it a Heavenly Togetherness
    1 ½ hour massage, for $298

    Just for Me
    1 hour Single Massage
    with hot towels $99/hour

    Heaven’s Gate
    Togetherness couples massage plus warm Chakra rock therapy followed by a pot of Eden Vale’s detox herb tea blend. And for relaxing in the Spa Tub afterwards, Eden Vale’s Royal Silk Milk Bath and Fizzy Bath Bomb. $229

    Baby Me
    1 hour Facial with hot towels $99

    Rates and Schedule

    The Spa Studio massage therapy rate is $99 per therapist per hour. You can purchase any increment of time subject to a one hour minimum per therapist.

    You must schedule massages in advance so that we can make an appointment for you and your massage therapist(s). If you choose to make a reservation On-Line, after selecting your room you will have the option to add various extras such as therapies. Or, you can follow-up with a telephone call or email. Please call us at 530-621-0901, or email innkeeper@edenvaleinn.com.

  • Events & Gatherings


    Family Reunions, Girls Night Out, Corporate Retreats and More!
    Seven guest rooms are available for events. Several smaller configurations are workable too. For example, if you rent the Madrone and Gray Pine together, you can you sleep six. And you have a kitchenette as well as a private large deck and covered porch. We will help you plan your event and work with other local resources such as caterers, rafting companies, and wineries to fit your needs. Please call the Inn so we may discuss opportunities for your special event.

    Pre-Wedding Activities Options
    Eden Vale Inn is a wonderful site for your pre-wedding activities with bridesmaids, hair dressers, the wedding party photos and so on. You may use the beautiful grounds for photography. We like you to tell us who is coming so we can help you plan and make it a success. The site fee for pre-wedding activities is $200 plus your room rental.

    Booking an Event

    • Please call us so we can consider your needs and what we can offer. Since each event and group of people is unique we like to consider the options and fit on a case by case basis. Additional charges may apply. We will consider, case by case, small weddings typically off peak times.
    • Blocked Rooms Policy: Advance reservations for blocks of three or more rooms requires: 1) full payment in advance and, 2) the approval of the innkeeper. Please call us at 530-621-0901 so we can discuss your interests and options.
    • In addition, blocks of rooms may be charged an additional “Displacement Fee” during peak times, typically weekends. You will be informed of the Displacement Fee, if any, at the time of booking.
    • Cancellation Policy for Blocked Rooms: If you cancel prior to 60 days in advance we will refund your money less a $25 cancellation fee per room. If you cancel within 60 days of your arrival you are responsible for the full amount; however, we try to be as fair as we can. Therefore, if we can re-book empty room(s) to a full occupancy status, the re-booking proceeds are refunded less a $25 service charge per room.

    “Pulled into Paradise”
    “We joined in on the fun with family and friends for an intimate wedding and reception at the Eden Vale Inn Bed and Breakfast. Great service... morning, noon and night. We felt like we had pulled into paradise as we approached Eden Vale's front entrance; lots of fun in store.
    From start to finish we were delighted with the bountiful gardens (Amazing, Gayle!), soaking up the sun by the Big Dipper Pond (Good on ya, Mark!), room amenities including the 21st century lighting system, large shower and Japanese soaking tub--relaxation at its finest.” -
    TripAdvisor, North Shore, MA 4/17/11

  • What Guests Say About the Edenvale Experience

    Modern B&B:
    “We really loved the modern décor” - TripAdvisor, Reno, NV
    “The bathrooms are state of the art” - TripAdvisor, Oakland, CA
    “Very peaceful and very high-end” - TripAdvisor, United Kingdom
    “Tasteful, relaxing, kitsch-free B&B” - B&B.com
    “Push a button to light the fireplace or fill the tub” - B&B.com

    Romance:
    “Our stay could not have been more romantic” - TripAdvisor, Roseville, CA
    “Amazing rooms perfect for honeymooning” - B&B.com
    "An elegant romantic get-away" - TripAdvisor, Sparks, NV
    "While on the moonlit pond and …taking in the beauty surrounding us, my fiancé opened a lighted ring box and asked me to marry him…” - TripAdvisor, San Diego

    Rooms:
    “Our room was wonderful and the bathroom high end” - B&B.com
    “Our room showed attention to every detail” -TripAdvisor, MWS, Yuba City, CA
    “Impeccably decorated and spotlessly clean suites” - B&B.com
    “Thoughtful, tasteful rooms with all the details” - B&B.com
    “The room was impeccable and very upscale” - B&B.com

    Gardens:
    "The grounds are a glorious thing to behold” - TripAdvisor, Walnut Creek, CA
    “We were delighted with the bountiful gardens” - TripAdvisor, North Shore, MA
    “The garden was lush and beautiful”- B&B.com
    “A paradise with a fresh water pond and bountiful gardens”- B&B.com
    “So many birds it’s like an aviary”- B&B.com

    Amenities:
    “All amenities are 5 star”- TripAdvisor, Tucson, AZ
    “Everything is top notch”- TripAdvisor, South Lake Tahoe
    “The Inn has every modern convenience”- TripAdvisor, Dana Point, CA
    “Gas fireplaces, romance lighting and great down pillows” - B&B.com
    “The private Japanese soaking tub was fantastic” - B&B.com
    “The bathrooms are state-of-the-art”- B&B.com

    Breakfasts:
    “Sinfully delicious breakfasts”- B&B.com
    “The delicious breakfast accommodated our dietary restrictions!”- B&B.com
    “The breakfasts are out-of-this-world”- B&B.com
    “Excellent home cooked gourmet breakfast”- B&B.com
    “Abundant delicious, home-made breakfast”- B&B.com
    “The breakfast setting is extraordinary with warm sunlight and an option to eat on the enclosed porch or in the dining area”- TripAdvisor, Dana Point, CA

    Service/Hosts:
    “The level of service was truly exceptional!”- B&B.com
    “The Innkeepers are so very welcoming”- TripAdvisor, Sacramento, CA
    “A gorgeous getaway with wonderful hosts” -TripAdvisor, Mugsysmom, Berkeley, CA
    “The hosts made us feel welcome and at home” - TripAdvisor, CA
    “The owners went the extra mile”- B&B.com
    “The staff is extremely hospitable and easy-going” - B&B.com
    “Warm, wonderful hosts” - B&B.com
    “Hosts were always accommodating”- TripAdvisor, Alameda, CA

    Nearby Attractions:
    “The area has great wine tasting, hiking, and history” - TripAdvisor, Atlanta, GA
    “Extremely central to family fun locations”- TripAdvisor, San Francisco, CA
    “Something for everyone from wine tasting to kayaking” - TripAdvisor, Palm Coast, FL
    “Great headquarters while visiting California Gold Country” - TripAdvisor, Huntington Beach, CA
    “Close to shopping, antiquing and good restaurants” - B&B.com
    “Great restaurants and numerous wineries nearby” - B&B.com
    “Nearby quality eateries and Apple Hill”- B&B.com
    “Nearby hiking trails hug the American River”- B&B.com

    Travel Site Reviews from our Guests

    “The Garden of Eden in CA"
    If you are looking for that special place to pamper yourself …look no further than the Eden Vale Inn. The owners, Mark and Gayle are an amazing couple who make you feel right at home. The rooms are five star and the attention to detail is amazing. Every room has a different theme and the gardens are amazing. Around each corner there is a little haven of peace and quiet awaiting you. Breakfast is a gastronomic treat … This is the heart of gold rush country so there is plenty to see. As you can see we cannot recommend this place highly enough!”
    TripAdvisor, London, UK

    “Eden Vale is No. 1…”
    We have stayed at more than 40 B&B's during the course of our life of traveling. And, we must admit that Eden Vale is No.1 on our list. Our room was spacious, comfortable and cozy. I was given a tour of all the rooms and must say that it would be difficult to chose my favorite. Breakfasts were divine with fresh fruit salad from local farms, delightful hot selections of casseroles and frittatas and pancakes, freshly brewed coffee and selections of teas and not to mention heavenly fresh baked muffins and cakes. Mark and Gayle, owners of the Inn, were so very warm and welcoming and always helpful in printing out directions and giving pointers to various places of interest nearby including excellent wineries, apple orchards, and historic towns such as Placerville. Their Inn sits on a most beautiful acreage with walking paths throughout. You will love it all!!!
    TripAdvisor, Tucson, AZ

    “One of the nicest times we ever had…”
    Upon arriving we were welcomed and shown around this very beautiful place. Then were shown to perfect places to wine and dine. Next we took a luxurious soak in our own private hot tub! Later we had the most wonderful, quiet night sleep in the most comfortable bed we ever slept in! Next morning we woke up to a very yummy breakfast that included fresh baked scones and quiche. Afterwards, we took a walk around the pond and meandered about the beautiful garden paths. All-in-all, this was one of the nicest times we have ever had! We're sure to be back, and maybe, make it into a double or triple date with some friends.
    TripAdvisor, Roseville, CA

    “A perfect five star experience, in all ways..."
    I can't give enough praise to the Inn Keepers, Gayle and Mark, for our exceptionally wonderful experience last weekend. Their Inn has to be seen to appreciate its beauty. I'm a painter. I could spends days there just painting the mini-vistas of the serene gardens, the pond, and all the details of the Inn. Everything was perfect... the room, the food, the grounds... the whole package. I'd recommend this Inn to anyone who wants a truly fine experience.”
    TripAdvisor, Grass Valley, CA

    “Highly Recommended"
    … Generally I do not like Bed and Breakfasts, however this was the exception.”
    TripAdvisor, Rossmoor, CA

    “Speechless”
    There were no surprises when we arrived in Coloma to stay at this place which was our Gift from God this week. We immediately realized that even the location is special and we were treated like royalty! You can believe everything you read here and see here. It is a little piece of heaven on earth!
    BB.Com

    “Pure Relaxation:
    …a beautiful property with wonderful gardens…The outdoor soaking tub just outside your room was very private and a wonderful way to end a day with a glass of wine. We could feel the stress leaving our bodies from the moment we got there. A wonderful place and central to all sorts of historic and natural attractions so your days can be busy and your nights relaxed.”
    Calgary, Canada

    “What a beautiful, beautiful place!"
    Our room was gorgeously decorated. The property includes a quaint pond complete with a rowboat that my husband and daughters had a blast navigating! We also enjoyed the fire pit as we watched the glorious sunset…”
    Larkspur, CA

    “Moonlight Engagement…”
    We rowed out to the middle of the water, the moon was so bright and the water was so still that all we could see was the reflection of the mountains motionless in the water. Once and a while you could hear a fish jump and splash into the water and, the enchanting sound of crickets...After we sat out on the water taking in the beauty surrounding us, my fiancé opened a lighted ring box and asked me to marry him. We celebrated the rest of the evening with delicious wine and a relaxing soak in the Japanese soaking tub. Then finally spent a few hours looking at the picturesque moon from the outdoor hammock for two.
    TripAdvisor San Diego, CA

    “I won’t stay anywhere else…”
    We travel a great deal and, have been coming to the Coloma- Placerville area for the past 25 years. And, we’ve stayed at every hotel within a 50 mile radius. From now on, I won't stay anywhere else! The accommodations are fabulous. And the hospitality is unmatched. Don't even get me started on breakfast, I gained 10 pounds. Highly, highly, recommend this inn.
    TripAdvisor, Las Vegas, NV

    “I can’t say enough about this place…”
    My wife and I are always looking for interesting getaways to the more remote wine regions of California. This was our first venture to El Dorado County wine country. It was a great weekend in large part due to the amazing experience of the Eden Vale Inn. I can't say enough about this place...hard to believe it used to be a barn! Mark and Gayle really have a talent and passion: the architectural design, the exquisite furnishings, the garden and grounds, the attention to detail everywhere, the helpful advice, and the wonderful breakfast. Everything about this place is focused on making sure guests have a wonderful and memorable experience. We did and we can’t wait to return.
    TripAdvisor- steveone03, San Francisco

    “Luxurious Oasis…”
    My husband I I spent two nights at Eden Vale Inn while visiting Apple Hill and wineries in the area. What a luxurious oasis! We were warmly received by innkeeper Mark, and Bushwhack the inn cat…The inn itself is a fantastically made-over barn that now resembles a mountain lodge with an Italian villa feeling. The inn incorporates the latest technology like computerized lighting, large elegant bathrooms, soft quilts on the comfy beds. Private Japanese soaking tubs are outside most rooms. The breakfast was delicious with homemade scones, quiche, homemade granola and other cereals fresh fruit, coffee, juice, and tea. The grounds include quiet paths for roaming, brick patios, a large pond, and many, many plants and trees to admire and enjoy. Mark and Gayle, the innkeepers were delightful... Our two little dogs were also warmly welcomed. We will definitely return to this wonderful inn.
    TripAdvisor, Sierra Foothills

    “The lodge is an architectural masterpiece…”
    If you're looking for a little jewel, in the rolling hills near Placerville and gold country, you need to check out the Eden Vale B&B. It sits on 10 acres of gently sloping land out in the country, has its own pond and, a magnificent garden planted with many rare trees and bushes. The hosts are friendly and knowledgeable and really make one feel welcome and at home by the big fireplace in the great room. The lodge is an architectural masterpiece, raised on the site of an old barn, parts of which were preserved and incorporated into the new building…Everything here is top notch, including rooms and the sumptuous breakfast.
    TripAdvisor, Applegate, Oregon

    “We will definitely recommend it to our friends and family…”
    Choosing Eden Vale was simply luck. … It sounded peaceful, serene. My husband called and dealt with Mark and was very impressed at not just his friendliness, but his helpfulness as well. The Inn is very homey. It is obvious that there has been a lot of time, money, effort and love put into the project. There is so much attention to detail and it certainly pays off. The rooms are lovely and, so different from one another. We stayed in the Juniper and had the joy of a soaking tub to relax in after dinner. The "staff" was very helpful, very friendly… We plan to go back in the fall and just spend some time reading in one of the many secluded alcoves on the property. Thanks for a lovely stay! We will definitely recommend it to our friends and family.
    TripAdvisor, Sacramento, CA

    “Don't miss this hidden jewel…”
    Eden Vale is nestled in the gold country about a ten minute ride from the Red Hawk Casino. This lovely old barn that has been converted to a very high-end B & B. The owners were just fabulous, attending to our every wish…The grounds are a glorious thing to behold, with little secret gardens, meandering pathways and fountains, all combining to create a marvelously calm feeling. There's even a trout pond you can admire and feed the trout if you so desire. The breakfast consisted of homemade scones, biscotti, spinach quiche, sausage, fruit and yogurt, a good selection of cereals, and of course tea, coffee and juice… and was just delicious! You can eat inside in the lovely dining room, or try any of several outdoor areas. We stayed in the Cottonwood room, which was very comfortable, the best part was the huge outdoor brick patio accessed through French doors from the room. Surrounding the patio are lush plantings, beautiful trees, and fountains. In the morning and evening the birdsong is enchanting… Don't miss this hidden jewel tucked away in El Dorado County!
    TripAdvisor, Walnut Creek, CA

    “The garden is a magic getaway in itself…”
    Our July 4th weekend at Eden Vale Inn B & B exceeded our already high expectations. This converted barn, in the California Gold Country of the Sierra Nevada foothills, has a lush garden and is filled with a remarkable collection of art objects. It is close to historic sites, High Sierra lakes, and whitewater stretches of the American River. Our hosts provided first-rate service combining a personal touch with complete professionalism. It's hard to say what I liked best. The breakfasts were extensive…delicious, and very fresh: scones just out of the oven, crepes that we watched being made in the open kitchen, fresh fruit and juice. Our room had state-of-the-art lighting, a large bathroom and a Japanese soaking tub on a private deck, was completely quiet. The garden is a magic getaway in itself and, an encyclopedia for plant lovers. Its various rooms presided over by a big, grand Ganesha sitting under his own arch. If I had to choose, I'd say that the best aspect of Eden Vale Inn is that the experience is entirely comfortable; it’s cool quiet beauty surrounds you but is never intrusive.
    TripAdvisor, California

  • Things To Do

    El Dorado County is one of the most diverse, exciting and beautiful places you will ever experience. Nestled in the Sierra Foothills, the region provides an incredibly rewarding escape for anyone who enjoys food and wine, nature, outdoor activities, and Gold Country history. It has served as the backdrop for dozens of movies, including The Horse Whisperer, White Mile, The Bodyguard, Out of the Woods, and The Valley of Light.

    The spring, summer, and fall seasons in the Gold Country provide for wine tasting, whitewater rafting, hiking, biking, fishing, antiquing, gold panning, and exploring the historic towns of Placerville, Coloma, Diamond Springs, Jackson, Grass Valley and Nevada City.

    Winter brings a fresh range of new activities. Perhaps the snow sports of the nearby Sierra Nevada mountain range will tempt you. Because of the milder winters at our elevation, many activities are available year-round. This includes most of the hiking and biking trails and the local wineries are always open.

    El Dorado Wine Country Seasons: The spring, summer, and fall seasons in the California Gold Country provide for El Dorado County and Amador County wine tasting, American River whitewater rafting, hiking, biking, fishing, antiquing, gold panning, and exploring the historic towns of Placerville, Coloma, Diamond Springs, Jackson, Grass Valley and Nevada City. Winter brings a fresh range of new activities such as snow sports at the nearby Lake Tahoe, NV resorts. Yet, because of the milder winters at our Sierra Nevada Foothills elevation, many activities are available year-round including most of the hiking and biking trails. The more than 80 wineries are always open.

    Wineries
    El Dorado County and Amador County is home to over 80 family-owned wineries that beckon visitors. As compared to Napa you will find much more intimate service at fraction of the cost. You can choose from a diversity of award winning wines. You'lll love the friendly tasting room staffs idyllic views vineyard and mountain views. Winter is a beautiful time of year to visit El Dorado's wine country. Weather is mild and the tasting rooms are uncrowded, giving you even more opportunities to talk with our winemaking families. Special annual events at the wineries are Passport Weekends (March/April) and Barrel Tasting Weekend (January). Some of our favorites are: DK Cellars, David Girard, Gold Hill, Venezio, Lava Cap, Dillon, Cedarville, Holly Hill, Sierra Vista, Vino Noceto, Windwalker and many more. There a so many good wines we can't list them all.

    For more information Sierra Foothills Wine visit these regional websites:
    El Dorado County Wines
    Fairplay Wines
    Amador County Wines
    Sacramento Wine Region, 197 Wineries

    Specialty Shopping
    Historic Main Street in downtown Placerville offers a variety of shops and will no doubt have something for everyone; tiny gift shops, art galleries, antiques shops, clothing stores and hand crafted jewelry to name just a few. Some of the more popular Placerville events have been the Art & Wine Festival, Bell Tower Brewfest, Craft and Antique Fair, Classic Car Show and the Festival of Lights that signals the start of the busy holiday season.

    Make sure you especially check out: Placerville Clothing Company, Violets Are Blue Consignment, Placerville Hardware (in business since 1851 - they have everything!), The Bookery, Raven's Tale Books, Winterhill Olive Oil, Tony Matthews Housewares, Placerville Antiques & Collectables, The Lighthouse and Dedrick's Cheese.

    Agri-Tourism:
    El Dorado County is one of the last great places to find family run wineries, orchards and farms. Check out these resources when planning a tour:

    El Dorado County Farm Trails
    El Dorado County Visitor Authority
    Apple Hill

    Nurseries/Gardens
    Gayle is an avid gardener and has scoped out all the best in gardens and nurseries. Her garden features plants from many of them and she is more than happy to share her gardening successes and challenges. Visit the nearby Gold Hill Olive Oil Company to taste excellent olive oils and to see one of the newest agricultural ventures. For the gardener Gayle recommends visits to:

    Lotus Valley Nursery and Gardens
    Lotus Bonsai Nursery
    Amador Flower Farm
    Golden Gecko Garden Center

    Art Galleries
    Many artists have come to this rich fertile area to follow their passion. You can visit several artist collectives that showcase some of the best. A few we recommend:

    Gold Country Artists Gallery
    El Dorado Arts Council
    Bennett Gallery

    Whitewater Rafting (April thru October)
    Cascading down from the Sierra Nevada runs the West's most popular whitewater river - the South Fork of the American River. An intermediate (Class III) river, the South Fork American River is suitable for kids aged 7 to 75! In nearby Coloma, on the American River is where James Marshall discovered gold. An El Dorado County white water rafting trip combines the river's natural beauty, rich historical background, and exhilarating rapids into one great whitewater vacation experience. Half and full-day trips are available.

    For more information on the river and the many good rafting companies see The American River

    Hiking, Biking and Horse Trail Riding
    Cronan Ranch Regional Trails (hiking and equestrian), Monroe Ridge Trail (hiking), Auburn State Recreation Area (hiking, biking and equestrian), Tahoe Rim Trail and the Western States Trail all offer a multitude of outdoor activities within easy driving range of Eden Vale Inn.

    Additional Resources:
    American River Conservancy
    Cronan Ranch Trail Map
    Dave Moore Nature Area
    Henningson Lotus Park
    Monroe Ridge Trail
    Tahoe Rim Trail
    Western States Trail Equestrian
    Western States Trail Run

    Dave Moore Nature Area is located approximately two miles west of the Marshall Gold Discovery State Park at Coloma on Highway 49 along the scenic and popular South Fork American River. One of the main features of the Dave Moore Nature Area is a loop trail about a mile long which goes from the parking lot trail head to the South Fork American River and back again passing through several habitat types.

    Explore the spectacular Tahoe Rim Trail as it follows the ridges and mountain tops that circle Lake Tahoe. Winding for 150 miles, the TRT was built to accommodate hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians, and to showcase breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe, California's High Sierra, and the Great Basin of western Nevada.

    Bring your bike to explore on road and off road adventures. Several local bike shops will help you with routes and equipment. Golden Spoke Bike Shop and Gold Country Cycling are some of the best. Check out their websites for touring maps and advice on the local area.

    High Country
    Desolation Wilderness in the El Dorado National Forest is 12 miles long and 8 miles wide and is accessed by 15 named and numbered trailheads. The relatively small 63,960 acre Desolation Wilderness contains many small streams with about 150 alpine and sub-alpine lakes. Many high country destinations, including the Carson Pass area are reasonable day hikes from Eden Vale Inn.

    Gold Panning, Mining, and History
    Rent a pan or bring your own. There is an area just across the South Fork of the American River from Marshall Gold Discovery State Park where you can settle in and try your luck. If Rodney is around, he is a fixture in the park, you might be lucky enough to get a lesson in gold panning from him. The Gold Bug Mine and Parkin Placerville hosts Hattie's museum, a 362-foot hard rock mine, gift shop, stamp mill, hiking trails and gold panning and makes for a terrific outdoor adventure. Bring a picnic and enjoy a day of history and fun at the park.

    Golfing
    Apple Mountain Golf Course
    18 holes over 6,450 yards with a par of 71 (Public)
    3455 Carson Rd
    Camino, CA 95709-9595
    (530) 647-7400

    Ski Resorts
    Within 2 hours drive of Eden Vale Inn are a number of top notch ski resorts:
    Sierra at Tahoe,
    Heavenly at Tahoe,
    Kirkwood (downhill and cross country)
    Royal Gorge (cross country)

    Nightlife
    The fabulous new Red Hawk Casino is within five miles. Five restaurants are featured some with great views of the Sierras and Foothills.

  • How To Find Us

    From the Sacramento Airport: (50 minutes)
    Get on I-5 South. Continue for about 15 minutes and you’ll be in urban/downtown Sacramento. You want to take the Highway 50 (South Lake Tahoe) interchange. It exits to the right off I-5 and comes up on you quickly. Watch the signs as you navigate the interchange. Once you’re on Highway 50 going toward South Lake Tahoe, you’ll drive about 40 minutes. Continue on through the valley on Highway 50 until you get up into the foothills (about 30 miles) from downtown Sacramento. Go past El Dorado Hills exit, Bass Lake exit, Cambridge Rd exit, Cameron Park exit. The easiest thing to do is watch the exit #’s. Take Exit #37 Ponderosa Road. At the end of the exit ramp turn left and cross Highway 50 headed north. Just north of the highway are two lights. Turn right at the second light. Measure 6.6 miles from the light and follow the main road, taking no turns until at 6.6 miles turn left on to Springvale Road. We have a lighted sign 3/10ths of a mile from the turn on the left.

    From Auburn:
    Take Highway 49 heading south. It takes about 30 minutes by car. You’ll cross the Middle Fork of the American River at the bottom of the canyon and then you go up through Cool. About 25 minutes south of Auburn you’ll come to Coloma. The important turn is coming up. Turn right on Lotus Road immediately after crossing the South Fork of the American River. The Sierra Nevada House is a landmark old hotel on the corner. From this point measure 4.4 miles on Lotus Road to Springvale Road which is at the bottom of a big hill. You will crest the hill at about 3 1/2 miles. At the bottom turn a sharp right on to Springvale Road. We have a lighted sign 3/10ths of a mile on the left.

    From Placerville:
    Go west on Highway 50 to Greenstone Road (exit #41) and turn right at end of ramp onto Greenstone Road. Go to end of Greenstone Road where it dead ends into Green Valley Road (1 mile). Turn left and continue until you dead end into Lotus Road (2.75 miles). Turn right and go to Springvale Road (a little under 2 miles). At night when you see Orange Fluorescent Triangles on a gate on the right, you have about another ¼ mile to go to your turn onto Springvale Road. Turn left onto Springvale Road. We have a lighted sign 3/10ths of a mile on the left.

 
BBOnline Member SINCE 2009