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Ancient grape vines are abundant in Lodi and its surrounding areas. Hotel accommodations are harder to come by. Perhaps that’s why Bella Vino is such a find. The renovated 1912 Craftsman bungalow is located near downtown Lodi, and run by four first-generation Lodi-ans. Their personal touch on everything, from the morning yogurt parfait and egg bake to picnic recommendations, is something you’re not likely to find at a chain hotels.
ZZZZ’S: All four guest rooms have ensuite bathrooms, crystal chandeliers, iron bedsteads and flat-screen TVs. Decor is vintage wine-country romance, which may or may not be your thing, but the rooms are impeccably clean and cozy. The queen-sized bed in our small Zinfandel Room was very comfortable and the pillows were top-notch. (The roll-away for our 7-year-old made for a tight squeeze, but it worked just fine.) The Merlot Room upstairs is larger and features a king-size bed.
SPLASHES: The bathrooms, which have glass-walled tile showers, are equipped with the basics — hairdryer, travel-sized toiletries and plush towels.
EXTRAS: Bella Vino is a quiet place to stay, even at full occupancy. We crossed paths with other guests a few times and made small talk, but my favorite thing during my stay was curling up on the sofa in the living room with a book, sipping complimentary ancient-vine zinfandel.
DETAILS: Rates start at $150 per night. 235 South Hutchins St., Lodi; lodibandb.com
