I recently went on a small getaway with my boys (12 and 15) and they were not in the best mood because they thought they would get bored. That completely changed upon leaving and the comment they both made as were driving away was "that was fun Mom!". Our cottage was very cute, extremely clean and there was even a record player and lots of vinyl to listen to (and listen I did!!). The general smell of fresh, crisp air was intoxicating in itself, but waking up to the aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries was mouth-watering. And the taste, texture, and variety did not disappoint either. The night before we enjoyed live music, a few games of Uno, some wonderful freshly baked pizzas, and to top it all off a slice of chocolate raspberry cake (all made by our wonderful host Mark). The next morning started with rain, so we took advantage by opening up a puzzle from the countless games in the community area and dug in. Once the rain stopped, the sun peeked out and we took a little walk to a nearby waterfall, enjoying the cool, green silence while investigating different vegetation and minerals as we walked. That evening we sat around in the community area enjoying more freshly baked goodies and other guests. The last morning, Mark and his small son were kind enough to wrestle some energy out of my boys and beat them over the head with pillows and cushions, while I laughed hysterically from my safe little corner. I barely looked at my phone for 2 days straight. How wonderful! And.... my hair and skin was amazingly soft after washing with the mountain water coming out of our tap. And how could I forget about the fairy ring of redwood trees (group of trees growing in a circle around the stump of an old growth tree, this is how they regenerate) right next to the grove. The oldest standing tree was 1,200 years old, meaning that the center "mama" tree that used to be there was probably two or three times older and BIGGER than the already standing behemoths. Mark made it feel like home away from home for us and my boys asked me if we could go back soon, probably to continue the wrestling match. I just want more fresh onion focaccia! And brownies. And cookies. And walnut tartes. And...... read more

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5 stars and more!!!! We spent one night at Elim Grove Cottages this fall and had the most wonderful time. The first night we arrived, Mark was there to welcome us with one of his kids and invited us to join him for a campfire out in their backyard. It felt like we were family. After a long drive, it was really nice to receive a cold beer and a warm welcome like that. Our cottage was cozy and really inviting. The highlight for us was definitely the outdoor area. There are fruit and vegetable gardens, an outdoor fire pit and little outdoor spaces where one can read and just be. You can see that the owner has put a lot of love in this place. We were mostly left on our own and it was really nice exploring the area. There's a creek right next to the property and little trails that you can take if you so wish. And sky-high redwood trees everywhere! Breakfast was a treat of freshly-baked items that Mark himself made, and it's amazing. And we learned later on that Mark has won several awards for his bakery. It was a real treat meeting Mark and his kids in person, he has such a giving spirit that just inspires you tremendously. I was personally really moved by his story and his life motivation. It's not often that you meet someone with so much clarity in his life purpose, and it was really inspiring to meet someone like Mark. Even though we found this place after reading several reviews, we were still very much surprised by our time here. The cottages and owner truly surpassed everything we expected out of a typical B&B, and we can't wait to return soon. Highly recommended for those who just want to get away from it all. And for those who are doing the coastal drive along Northern California, make a little detour and stay at this place. You'll thank me for this. read more

After 12 hour days of working and going to school for nearly a year, I was desperate to find some reprieve. I came across Elim Grove Cottages - set in the Redwoods, away from life's hustle and bustle and an oasis of tranquility. It certainly met that expectation. We stayed in Gravenstein cottage, which had a cozy living area and a queen bed and bath towards the back. I really appreciated the little things that Mark did to make it feel like home - games and books in the cabinet all the way down to the random John Frieda and Kirkland bottles of shampoo tastefully decorating the restroom. My favorite part the flower cut from the garden and placed in a vase in the restroom... so pretty. This place insists that you enjoy nature and the people around you - literally. Be forewarned, there is no cell phone reception (at least for the Verizon junkies) and the tv is rather small in the cottage, but it was enough for us. My boyfriend and I loved spending time with each other in the cottage and the grounds and hiking in the redwoods. Most things are half an hour from the cottage on windy roads (including ziplining, wine tasting, hiking, or the beach), so bring snacks or items that can be microwaved in case you don't want to drive to town for dinner. There was so many things I loved about this place. Mark welcoming us, telling us stories, showing the grounds, hell, even sitting us down for a glass of wine after the long drive. But I had to deduct a star because, being a doting father, baker and manager, he seemed pulled in many directions to the point where it effected our stay: 1) When we arrived, the bakery was closed and locked and there was no place 'check in.' We had no cell phone reception, so my boyfriend and I stood there for 5 minutes wondering what we should do; luckily Mark found us as he was saying bye to another couple who were leaving. 2)The next day, we were to go hiking, but realized we were never given keys to our cottage to lock up. Again, we were confused as to where to go but after some asking around, the girl behind the bakery counter took care of it. 3)They had a glorious breakfast of baked goods, but I had to pay for my regular coffee; my boyfriend's parents were appalled that I paid for coffee at a bed and breakfast. Oops. 4) Last but not least, we had to check out early, but the bakery was closed and there was no one to check us out. Again confused, we left the cottage keys and cash in our cottage to take care of our tab. Yes, truly a magical place, and from the looks of the reviews, maybe we just caught Mark at a busy time and it was just a fluke. read more

Wanted to spend some time away from the busyness of the city/suburbs and head up north for a weekend. Airbnb provided several cabins surrounded by redwoods in the area, but we were sold by the idea of staying in a bakery. Yes, we like food, but I mean, the thought of smelling freshly baked cookies in the morning? Who could say no to that? It wasn't until a couple months after we made our reservation that we realized that the bakery was actually closed for the season. Admittedly, I was disappointed - not because I was hoping for free pastries - but because I was hoping to see the hustle & bustle of a small town bakery. Funnily enough, by the time we left the next morning, I was glad that the bakery had been closed because we got to have an incredible conversation with Mark. He was so easy to talk to that if it weren't for the fact that work was the next day, I would have gladly stayed another night. Anyway, when we had the pleasure of staying in the Baker's Loft, right above the bakery (of course). Upon arrival, we found Mark with some guests and friends who had come from all over the Bay making paella over an open fire in the back. They immediately made us feel welcome and multiple offerings of homemade food and wine. Unfortunately, we had already eaten both dinner and dessert beforehand. Didn't stay downstairs with the others for too long as we were pretty beat from the day's activities, but there was plenty to do upstairs. Various board games/puzzles and plenty of books lined a bookcase by the bed, which we occupied ourselves with instead of the TV until bedtime. We went downstairs just before 8AM the next day (Sunday), thinking that perhaps we were too early and no one would be around. But of course, Mark had been up and baking since 3AM for the farmer's market in Sebastopol. We were immediately offered freshly brewed coffee and onion rolls, and within 5 minutes, completely engrossed in great conversation that delayed our departure by two hours! Seemed like he was pulling a new pastry/bread out of thin air every 15 minutes. Not only is Mark incredibly easy to talk to, but he's also one of those people who seems to know something about everything in a discreetly and humble manner. He even let us roam free on the property, where we got to explore all his various projects, including the treehouse of my dreams, a super cool looking airstream, and a spacious back area covered in all sorts of trinkets. There is so much more I could say about this place, but clearly I've already said enough. If, however, you're someone who isn't comfortable in a more relaxed setting and needs everything to be structured, I would not recommend staying here. For myself, I would absolutely stay here again and am actually looking forward to the day that I can come back. Hopefully for pizza night on a Friday. TD;LR: LOVED IT. Go try it out someday - unless you're a stick in the mud. read more

We were able to book a last minute weekend rental at Elim Grove and loved it! We arrived late Friday night having battled brutal traffic the whole way up 101S and were greeted at Raymond's Bakery by a local crowd listening to live music and really, really good pizza--pizza that would easily give the folks at Pizzaolo a run for their money. If the thought of a cozy cottage nestled among the redwoods--and a stone's throw from a creek--overseen by a genuinely welcoming proprietress sounds like something your soul needs then this is the place for you. Did I mention this place is both puppy and kid friendly? read more

My mom and I (and my dog!) recently stayed at Elim Grove and I cannot sing their praises enough! Mark and his family were gracious, hospital, friendly and great company. The cottage was clean, comfortable and well-stocked. Free breakfast is an understatement - handmade pastries, fruit, yogurts, etc. An awesome spread! You also get access to the shared garden, fire pit, BBQ/grills, etc. The location was awesome for us. Right on the creek/swimming hole, nestled amongst the redwoods. About 15 min into Monte Rio (where there are a few basic grocery stores) and then another 5-10 min to Guerneville (restaurants, wineries, etc). Awesome spot if you are looking for a peaceful, secluded retreat that is an easy drive to wineries and things to do. If i could give them 10 stars I would!! Highly recommend :) read more

Mark is the nicest guy we've ever met. He opens up his arms, heart, and home to nearly everyone he meets. I've been going to Cazadero for years because my family has a cabin there, which unfortunately is now being sold. We met Mark a couple years ago and became fast friends and I'm so thankful we have another "home" in Cazadero (or at least it feels that way!). We now visit at least twice a year because Mark's bakery and cottages are amazing and the experience is like no other. Mark is a fantastic host that cares deeply and gives so much. If you like live music and delicious pizza fresh from the oven, then you have to check out pizza nights at the bakery on Friday nights. How about hot pastries and coffee first thing in the morning? He has that too! You will be welcomed by Mark and his three sweet children, shown around the beautiful 4 acre property, and you'll have a relaxing stay in one of the well kept cottages (which are completely adorable, by the way). My husband and my 2.5 month old daughter just stayed for the weekend and we woke to fresh baked cinnamon raisin bread, caramel sauce, sourdough bread, blackberry and cherry pastries, fruit, yogurt, and hard boiled eggs. I'm pretty sure I had enough carbs this weekend to last me this whole week. Check it out - you won't be disappointed! read more

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Super cute, really cozy, stunning location. The cottages are right next to the family run bakery, pizzeria. Plan to involve a Friday night on your trip so you can enjoy the really tasty pizza, drinks and live music. The bakery is only open Friday-Sunday and if you are there during this time you get to enjoy a really fresh and yummy breakfast either in the bakery, under the redwoods or back in your room. The room is really cozy but comfortable. You aren't getting cell phone service out here, if you have a TV in your room its just hooked up to a DVD player but they did have Internet service that was totally sufficient to stream netflix if desired. It was a pretty hands off place with the owners leaving us to our own devices during the stay. The area is simply breathtaking and it is so relaxing. Short drive to Duncan Mills, Guerneville, or the Ocean if you want to get out and need supplies. Pack some snacks and things to eat so when you feel lazy at night you have something to nosh on. Elim Grove Cottages just personifies the area to me. Family, straightforward, friendly, and relaxing. It's a gem and we would come back in a minute. read more

The bakery is fantastic - we ate breakfast there two mornings while staying in the cottages and had a great selection of pastry, bread, fresh fruit, yogurt, cereal, and hard boiled eggs. The staff also provided a complementary coffee - anything from a tall, black standard to a latte if that was your desire - a nice surprise. We also really enjoyed the Friday night pizza - sauce with precisely the right amount of zing, high quality ingredients, and a crust perfectly thick and chewy in just the right way. Beyond the excellent food (I think I ate enough bread for a week in two days...) the owners are exceptionally kind and helpful with whatever you need. (directions? suggestions on a bike ride? what winery to visit? done!) The cottages are cute and readily supplied with anything you'd need (the mini-fridge, microwave and toiletries were a nice surprise not often found at a B&B!). Only downside is a less-than-ideal location. It's a 20 minute drive to anything else - to eat dinner, to tour a winery, or to pick up that hairbrush you forgot at a store. We stayed two nights, and had scheduled a kayak rental in Healdsburg and a vineyard tour just north of Santa Rosa, and it was a longer drive than expected both times (and when we went to dinner in Guerneville Saturday night). Great little getaway, but I'd plan your excursions thoughtfully so you minimize your drive time and maximize the time you have to enjoy this quiet place in the woods. The one upside to being farther out was that it was certainly the peace and quiet we were seeking! read more

This was a great place to unwind and slow down while being surrounded by nature. We rented the Elim cottage, which was cozy and actually bigger than I imagined. We let Mark know that we'd be arriving pretty late at night, so he left the light on for us and let us know how to check in while the bakery was closed. Upon arriving, we found that yummy pastries were left for us in the cottage! The next morning we were given a delicious breakfast to eat in the cabin. After breakfast we went exploring and found a creek across the street. The place was very cozy, the grounds were gorgeous, and Mark was super friendly and welcoming. We will definitely go again! I have no complaints. If you want an easy getaway this is a great place to check out. read more

My husband and I just spent a fabulous "60th bday" get away at the Elim Grove Cottages. Everything was amazing, the area itself and the nearby ( 20 minutes) beautiful coastline, the Russian River and more. But let me tell you about the cottage we stayed: upon our arrival, Mark, the owner greeted us at the bakery, welcoming us with a beer and a glass of wine. Then he got out a map and told us about the area and showed us to our cabin. The cabin was nice, clean, rustic and quiet. In the morning there was a tray set outside our front door, on a table, with fruit, fresh baked muffins, cereal and coffee. Oh and I almost forgot: a sort of cheese pizza, fresh and delicious. The next ( our last) morning the same, this time also pumpkin bread and boiled egss. Not only is it nice to get away but such a treat to meet genuinely nice hosts. The area is about 3 hours from where we live in Placerville and we are planning on going there each year from now on. read more

Can wonderful become even wonderfuller? (I know that is not a word, but that is how I would describe our second stay at Elim Grove.) Mark and Elizabeth have really turned this magical getaway and bakery into something super special. The Redwoods, the wafting sweet smells from the bakery, the well maintained cottages and especially the hospitality make this place a destination that we want to come back to again and again. Close to the coast, Guerneville, the Russian River, wineries, hidden in the Redwoods next to a music camp, it is a place that has it all. And yet if you just want to stay put,relax, read a book, drink some wine, you can do that too. This time we stayed on a Friday night and what a wonderful time we had! Live music, delicious oven fired pizza right on the property and the locals as well as the other visitors were just as friendly as could be. I guess you could say we really, really like it. You will too! P.S. If you can't disconnect from all your technology you might become frazzled here since phone and internet, thankfully, can be spotty.. (You can use the land line if you need to.) You might have to mosey down the road a piece to connect. Gee, what a shame! read more

Mark welcomed us with open arms after we reached the end of a lap of kings ridge on our bicycles. It was great to see such hospitality. We'll be back. read more

Our group hoped to stay at a whimsical, peaceful, hidden treasure for my Gal's Birthday Getaway, and we truly found it here. We were welcomed by open arms, glasses of wine and beer, and a tour of the grounds when we arrived; but that was only the beginning. Paradise Grove Cottage was a perfect spot for us to unwind, show off our cooking chops (we're STILL trying to figure out how to commandeer that Wedgewood stove!), and laugh together until our sides hurt. If you're looking for a five-star resort with turn-down service and a snooty concierge, this is not the place for you. But, if you're looking for charming, even magical, you've found it. Mark (and we can only believe this of Elizabeth, too, as she as out of town when we visited) is the real deal; he loves people and it shows in everything he does. His passion is contagious, and you just might find yourself hanging out around a table, sharing a meal and a bottle of wine with him, and talking for hours. That's one of the many beauties of Elim Cottages. One other aspect that we truly admired was the way that they have taken discarded, tired, even abandoned items and have loved them back into their former glory. This is true of the bakery itself, the cottages in which you stay (which are meticulous and gorgeous), most, if not all of the furnishings and decorations...even the über-friendly cats that roam the grounds looking for new friends were at one time abandoned and in need of a home. We loved every minute we spent at Paradise Grove Cottage, and although we just returned home, we're already talking about when we can make the journey back to visit again!! read more

My short review: The bakery and cottages simply surpassed all of my expectations. My longer review: The Food: My 5 year old son said it best, "Mark is a samurai baker!" I agree. Everything I ate at the bakery was delicious. The proprietors left two treats for us in our cabin on arrival: a raspberry square and a brownie that was perfection. The raspberry square was sublime and the brownie was the best I've EVER had! Was it laced with crack, (possibly!) but whatever the case may be, it blew me away. I also bought some goodies to take home: apple turnover, blackberry turnover, lemon-poppyseed muffin, and a salted sourdough loaf of bread. All were amazing. Mark has found a way to bring ordinary baking to an exalted level. I also had the turkey sandwich for lunch...yummmm. The cottages: My son and I loved our cottage: warm, cozy, comfortable, clean, full of antiques and other accents that made the cottage feel like a perfect retreat. They had a huge stack of books for children, and a huge selection of books for adults. I loved the gas stove at night, watching the flames during the late hours was so relaxing. I simply loved our cottage. If you are looking for the Four Seasons this isn't your place. This place is the opposite of the Four Seasons: its a warm, laid back family owned retreat that is mellow and easygoing with a lot of heart. The land: My son and I got to explore the river and some of the little streets around the B&B. What to expect: stunning scenery, majestic redwoods, beautiful river, great place to spend hours playing with the kids or listening to the babbling of the stream. The valley exudes a beautiful quiet and peace that I deeply needed (and appreciated.) The proprietors: 5+ I've always been a person who has noticed those rare folks who have obviously been able to find and then manifest their life purpose. Mark is one of those people. As soon as I arrived, he asked if I'd like a complimentary beer (one of the best IPA's I've ever had, and it really hit the spot after the drive.) He was proud and excited as he offered to give me a tour of his bakery. My son and I decided to have our dinner near the fire pit. Elizabeth, the proprietress, made us a fire and brought us chocolate, marshmallows and graham crackers for s'mores and an impromptu marshmallow roast. Fun!! Her lovely twins and precocious 10 year old all sat with us eating, playing, and talking. What a night. Thank you. I feel most appreciative to Mark and Elizabeth for the warm attention. My son and I felt so at home, so cared for. It was nourishing to our souls. Bottom Line: Just like the proprietors, Elim Grove Cottages and Raymond's Bakery are true gems. read more

Where do I start? Elim Grove Cottages is not the Ritz so if that's what you're looking for don't go. There are no televisions, no cell phone service, no air conditioning and no one's gonna make your bed for you every morning. My wife and I didn't realize how spoiled we were until we spent several days in one of the cottages. Now the good news!! If you're looking for a clean, quiet out of the way location, that is still conveniently located to the Pacific Coast, Redwood Forest State Parks and the Sonoma Wine country, this is it. The cottage was clean and comfortable, the daily breakfast provided by the property owner Mark Weiss, through Raymond's Bakery was as good as any I've had anywhere. Quite frankly, the best part of the trip was in fact Mark. We have never in our travels, both across this great country but also internationally, met a person so genuine, caring and full of life. Meeting Mark made the entire trip worthwhile. He spent a lot of time with his guests, making sure they were taken care of and comfortable. He went out of his way to map out the best drives and places to visit. The evening campfires, with homemade pizza and smores (both prepared by Mark) as well as the camaraderie and social time was second to none and by the end of the trip you feel like Mark is family and he treats you as such. This is a great place to unplug and unwind but if you can't or don't want to do either, you'll be better off going somewhere else. If you want to be treated like family, meet a truly genuine business owner, and leave feeling somewhat sad because of the great time you had, this is the place to go. Randy & Mary Lou Pazik Henderson, NV read more

This is a great cottage and the owners provide great service! The amenities, including the small wood stove, are wonderful, the breakfasts are delicious, and the location is enchanting. I am looking forward to returning when the bakery is open because it seems like a lively place! read more

If you want to stay in a magical place, this is it! My husband and I stayed here at the beginning of May 2011 and believe me, it was hard to leave. Elim Cottages has several modern, bright nicely furnished cottages nestled among the Redwoods, close to the coast and a stone's throw from the Russian River. It has been yelped as Raymond's Bakery and B&B but as far as I know the B&B part is Elim Grove and Cottages. The cottages sit behind the bakery which bakes wonderful scones, breads, muffins and other baked goods. It is awe inspiring to wake up under the majesty of the redwoods but coupled with the smells wafting out of the bakery the experience is devine! You could BBQ in one of BBQ areas, dine along the Russian River, take a ride out to the awesome California northern coast, it is all good here. Mark and Elizabeth Weiss are a loverly young couple who will make your experience unique with suggestions for where to go and what to do. The location is awesome, the cottages are comfy and the price is very attractive too. read more