Fodor's Expert Review The Highlands

Two hoteliers with an eye for woodsy low-budget panache teamed up to rejuvenate the decades-old cabins at this redwood-studded hillside property not far from downtown and the main Russian River beach. One of the proprietors, Crista Luedtke, also operates the nearby boon hotel + spa and Brot and boon eat + drink restaurants. Retro touches like burlwood coffee tables, redwood paneling, Formica tables, and floral curtains evoke Guerneville's mid-century casual-resort era, while the LGBTQ-friendly atmosphere recalls the area's 1970s and 1980s heyday. Two cabins are under 300 square feet, another is under 200 (check the website before booking), and pets are only permitted in three rooms. The room rate includes a continental breakfast.