A 50's Weekend Getaway At The Andiron Inn

A delightfully cozy and unique escape in Northern California.

Outside Fort Bragg, a few hours north of San Francisco, The Andiron Inn brings a refined aged touch to the town.

Mal Meyer

We pulled onto the property well after sundown, when a woman with pink dreads clad in an evening gown ran out to our car. “I just can’t sleep knowing a guest has yet to arrive!” she cheerful welcomes us to the Andiron Inn.

Mal Meyer

The inn, rather a cluster of nine cabins with unique themes, is a delightful blast from the past. Each room is filled with 50’s decor and trinkets pulled together is tasteful, not tacky. My partner and I stayed in ‘Make’, a bedroom with sewing kits and era clothing designs, knitting accessories, and a paint by numbers mural. A way to take the weekend with you or leave a memento behind.

Mal Meyer

My partner had suggested the inn for her birthday weekend. When booking, the owners, Scott and Madeline, had her on file from a previous trip. They suggested our particular room as it was requested last time but wasn’t available. Since it was her birthday, they also treated us to complimentary wine which greeted us on the desk upon our arrival.

Mal Meyer

Our companions stayed in ‘Play’, a board game filled room with Scrabble, Yatzee, and even a view-master that my parents may have once played with. I’m not sure where the owners could have found all the trinkets for the rooms, though I’m sure through years of thrifting, estate sales, or a keen eye.

Mal Meyer

Our two rooms were side by side with a back patio connecting us behind the welcome lounge of sorts. Each morning, we were treated to farm fresh eggs from the chickens outside and toast with jams and butters. Some of the cabins had a small kitchen, especially helpful for longer stays. Ours did not, however the nearby town about ten minutes away had a few cosy breakfast spots.

Mal Meyer

The property itself, while on a main road, is very quiet except for the occasional rooster call or the goats. We left for the day and when we returned, we found the owner casually walking around with Peanut Butter and Jelly (yes, the goats) in tow.

Mal Meyer

This is the feeling of the surrounding area- a small seaside town with farmers, retirees, and those looking for a peaceful getaway. The nearest center, Little River or Mendocino, has a bunch of jewelry, trinket, and art shops right on the California shore line.

Mal Meyer

Stunning overlooks and a variety of wildlife is the main attraction with areas like Glass beach. Formerly a trash dump decades ago, the remnants have been pounded into the rocks to create a natural time capsule. An old tired encased in old glass pieces, metal bits, and seashells are now part of the shore landscape unlike any other.

When you return back to the inn, treat yourself to the hot tub in the woods. Fairy lights will lead you to it, with a single stand of lights above provides a relaxing atmosphere for a late dip. Another couple joining our group were also there for a few days away as well.

Mal Meyer

If you’re ever in the Fort Bragg area, I highly suggest a night at the Andiron Inn. The hospitality of staff, delightful decor, and proximity to attractions made for a perfect weekend trip.