SETTING UP IN SUTTER CREEK.
Entering the hotel business in 2008 may have seemed risky to some. But for Amador County native Athena Padilla-Gordon, it was a chance to use the construction management skills she and her husband had gained after they met at the University of San Francisco. Hanford House Inn, the Sutter Creek bed-and-breakfast compound they renovated in stages, not only blends in with its Gold Rush-era surroundings but also mines a rich vein of modern comforts.
Setting: On the northern edge of Sutter Creek’s historic Main Street (Old Highway 49), within walking distance of numerous boutiques, tasting rooms and restaurants.
The appeal: Wine country chic with culinary charm. Behind the weathered brick facade, a glass of Amador County wine awaits at check-in; hot scones are delivered at 7:30 a.m. daily to the 12 hotel rooms and four cottage rooms, which also enjoy a hearty repast at the in-house, breakfastbrunch restaurant, Element. Many rooms offer fireplaces and heated bathroom floors — perfect for winter stays.
Insider’s tips: For special dinners, Padilla-Gordon recommends Taste restaurant in Plymouth, less than 15 minutes away by modern Highway 49. Caterer Beth Sogaard’s Amador Vintage Market, also in Plymouth, sells gourmet deli sandwiches and entrees, including ready-made “wine tour” lunches (http://bethsogaard.com).
Good to know: Families or couples traveling together should book the Bungalow on Hayden, a separate two-bedroom, two-bath unit with a fully stocked kitchen (minus oven). Up to two pets may stay in the bungalow for a one-time $35 fee.
Details: 61 Hanford St., Sutter Creek. (209) 267-0747, http://hanfordhouse.com. Hotel and cottage rooms, $204-$358 weekends (twonight minimum) and $171-$292 weekdays. Bungalow $226 weekdays, $281 weekends (two-night minimum all week; no breakfast). Rates include tax.