The Madrona: a High-Camp, Wine-Fueled Victorian Fantasy
Issue 013 Hotel Review: This enchanting 19th-century mansion renovated by Jay Jeffers presides over the vine-laced landscape of Healdsburg, California.
When San Francisco–based interior designer Jay Jeffers first toured a historic hillside estate on the outskirts of Healdsburg, Northern California, his initial reaction was: “What is this crazy, magical place—and how do I not know anything about it?” He shared the story with an intimate group of us in The Madrona’s periwinkle-hued parlor, a space that perfectly demonstrates his unbridled imagination. As both designer and co-owner of the property, Jeffers has restored the glamour to the estate through his signature maximalist style, which is certainly not for everyone—but that’s part of the allure.
Just three years after reopening, The Madrona’s reputation as a must-visit Wine Country escape is now internationally recognized, and the hotel has become something of a poster child for the upper reaches of Sonoma County. This was my first stop on a whirlwind trip around the region with Flowers Winery, conveniently located just five minutes down the road. Although I spent less than 24 hours here, the conversation with Jeffers offered deep insight into his vision for the property—and what guests can expect when they enter this whimsical world.
Here’s what I thought…
