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Estero Schoolhouse Guest Studio

Photo gallery for Estero Schoolhouse Guest Studio

Studio and Kitchen
Kitchen with gas stove
Queen bed in main room
Light-filled living space
Dining area seats

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 341.8 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

View map
Valley Ford, CA
  • Dillon Beach
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Doran Beach
    ‪16 min drive‬
  • Bodega Harbour
    ‪17 min drive‬
  • Santa Rosa, CA (STS-Sonoma County)
    ‪45 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 3)

Bedroom 1

1 Double Bed and 1 Double Futon

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Outdoor play area
Garden

About this property

Estero Schoolhouse Guest Studio

This unique studio lies four miles inland from Dillon Beach, near Sonoma wine country and the staggeringly beautiful Sonoma coastline and beaches. The bucolic 1-acre parcel is home to deer, wild turkey, rabbits and many species of birds, who come to the many fruit and cypress trees on the property.

The building is the original stable for the 100-year-old Estero Schoolhouse. Natural wood throughout with French windows, bamboo floors, full tile kitchen., queen sized kitchen and fold-out sofa couch. The compact tiled bathroom includes shower, toilet and sink. This is a perfect writer's retreat or for anyone enjoying the beaches, towns, vineyards, or the many natural wonders of West Marin and Sonoma County. Park your car 15 feet from the front door. See families of cows just six feet across the fence from your dining table.

The studio shares the same acre and lies about 100 feet away from the main schoolhouse. Both properties offer a great deal of privacy. The studio residents have exclusive use of their own south-facing brick patio, as well as the rear 1/2 acre of the property, which is filled with trees and meadow grass.
Close to local wineries and breweries, or hike and kayak at Point Reyes national seashore! Enjoy exploring Bodega Bay, Dillon Beach, and the redwood forests 15 minutes away. The perfect getaway. Enjoy quality time with your travel companion or alone in this bucolic setting.

Guest access
Guests can unload and park jmmediately next to the studio. Guests have exclusive use of the adjoining gazebo and deck as well as a bricked patio area to the south of the studio.

The schoolhouse, which sleeps up to six, is also available either separately or with the studio through VRBO: https://www.vrbo.com/867988 Renting both listings together is recommended for those with larger parties,.

Other things to note
NOTE: WITH OUR SEPTIC SYSTEM, IT IS IMPORTANT AND REQUIRED NOT TO FLUSH ANYTHING OTHER THAN HUMAN WASTE AND TOILET PAPER DOWN THE TOILET. All other items (floss, sanitary napkins, cleaning wipes, etc.) go into the trash can provided. Also note this is a rural location and a nature sanctuary, and for our many guests with pets, we don't use much poison, so those with zero bug tolerance should perhaps avoid this wooded bucolic acre.

PETS: There is an additional $50 fee per pet per stay. If you would like to bring more than one pet, you must check first with owner.

Please check your belongings before you leave! Please be advised there is a $50 fee for any left items that require being returned.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
No pets on furniture, nor chasing our wildlife
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking outside only

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
ALL GUESTS NEED TO READ AND AGREE TO THE RENTAL AGREEMENT, WHICH CONTAINS RULES FOR TOILETS, ENERGY USE, SURROUNDING PROPERTY AND SIX RULES FOR DOGS.
HOST MUST BE NOTIFIED OF PET(S) PRIOR TO ARRIVAL.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Valley Ford

Located in Valley Ford, this apartment is in a rural area and on a river. The Barlow and Heart's Desire Beach are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Russian River and Sonoma Coast State Park. Wild Flour Organic Gardens and Luther Burbank's Experiment Farm are also worth visiting.
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Map
Valley Ford, CA

What's nearby

  • Dillon Beach - 13 min drive - 10.6 km
  • Doran Beach - 16 min drive - 18.6 km
  • Links at Bodega Harbour - 16 min drive - 18.6 km
  • Bodega Harbour - 17 min drive - 18.9 km
  • Bodega Head - 25 min drive - 25.2 km

Getting around

  • Santa Rosa Station - 38 min drive
  • Santa Rosa, CA (STS-Sonoma County) - 37 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Fishetarian Fish Market - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪The Tides Wharf Restaurant & Bar - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Bodega Bay Oyster Company - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪The Birds Cafe - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪The Boat House - ‬15 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Estero Schoolhouse Guest Studio pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

What time is check-in at Estero Schoolhouse Guest Studio?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Estero Schoolhouse Guest Studio?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Estero Schoolhouse Guest Studio located?

Situated in Valley Ford, this golf apartment building is within 6 miles (10 km) of Dillon Beach, Potter Schoolhouse and Tomales City Park. Wild Flour Organic Gardens and Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

9.0/10

Cleanliness

8.6/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.0/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.4/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 39 out of 54 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 11 out of 54 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 54 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 54 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 54 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Chris B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet Get Away

I came for quiet R&R with dog, Libby. Everything noted on description of VRBO website was exactly as it was.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tara S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful country cottage

This sweet place was exactly what we were hoping for. Private, quiet, clean, simple and in nature. The cottage had everything we needed to be comfortable. The bed was very comfortable. Stephen is responsive and a great host. We will so be back to this wonderful spot. Just a short drive to the beach and amazing restaurants. We were very happy with our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Virgina A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Had a good time

Great private time for sure So much to look at and perfect for hikeing andscouting
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michele B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Rural and Peaceful

Lovely little place with everything one would need for a few quiet days near the coast.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mary D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Quick Getaway

I enjoyed this quiet rural getaway that was only a short drive to some charming restaurants and lovely beaches.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nadia P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Restful Haven

Our stay was restful and beautiful. We loved gazing at the green hills outside the sweet windows of the studio.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Peter H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Isolated resting place

Great place to get away and just rest and breathe the country air.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

andreas g.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice quiet getaway location

Spent a few days here and enjoyed the peace and quiet. Also close to bodega bay for whale watching or visiting the beach. Schoolhouse has everything you need.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mike C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Little Hideaway

Great little hideaway on the backroads of Valley Ford. Would stay in this rustic little studio again in a heartbeat.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kim J.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Get away

It was very quiet and private. The location was central to all the quaint beach towns that we visited. And close to the redwoods for a beautiful hike.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

8/10 Good

Cecilia

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
It was cozy and comfy. Nice and quiet the TV had variety of stations. I’d like the fruit trees and the hills all around. I also liked the enclosed patio area to enjoy your coffee in the morning and a glass of wine in the evening. I would like to go back and stay a while👍
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shanta B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay

This was our second stay at this cottage. The surroundings, for miles are incomparable, and with all the rain this winter the presence of new lakes, ponds and rivulets was incredible.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Janet R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Dont miss this spot!!

Awesome, super quiet and relaxing! Close to all spots we wanted to explore! Kitchen well equipped! Will stay again!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ann B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

heavenly time away

very special peaceful place. I walked in and said, " I want a month here! "
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Daniel W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful

This was such a great place to unwind and unplug. The surrounding areas were beautiful, and the wildlife was amazing. Already trying to figure out a trip back.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

MICHAELA G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Getaway

The location was perfect, out of the way and near everything we wanted to see. Beautiful wildlife and gee tree at ocean sounds. Perfect spot to sneak away from the busy life and slow down and. Enjoy the surroundings. Thank you so very much for the pleasant stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Anna B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely western Sonoma getaway

A great little cottage, equally well-situated for jaunts to Bodega Bay and the coast as well as to wineries closer to Santa Rosa and Sebastopol. We encountered an electrical issue during our stay, but Stephen was very responsive and resolved the issue as quickly as possible. Would return!!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sharon B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet, quaint get away

Very easy check in and check out. Owner great to work with!! Very cute and comfortable, adorable gazebo and nice tv selections!! Recommend it to anyone who would like a nice relaxing weekend!!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

8/10 Good

Wendy M., Pacifica, CA

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quirky spot

We had a nice day. The place had everything we needed. But, there was mouse poop here, and there. In general, the place could’ve been cleaner.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Scott K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great country studio.

I booked this studio for my wife and teenage daughters. It was awesome. Location is beautiful and super close to the beaches of Sonoma County. Stephen made the check in process very simple and convenient. I would highly recommend this property.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ken Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place for the price

Lots of wildlife, from deer, turkeys, Hawks, quail and lots more. Short drive to Dillion Beach. We also hiked Pinnacle Gulch to the beach. Which no one was at the beach and the dog was aloud.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Melissa B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Seclusion and peace

This place is perfect for a quiet romantic getaway or a solo adventure. It is rustic and rural, but super comfortable. It has beautiful light, especially during golden hour. The location is close to Dillon Beach, Bodega Bay and Sebastopol. The kitchen is small but efficient—we brought some supplies and did some cooking and snacking. We’d visit again!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

8/10 Good

Collette C., Rough and Ready, CA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Country retreat

We enjoyed the serenity, the quiet, and beautiful countryside. Both of us slept very deeply each night. Our pup loved exploring the property with us. Property was as described. The basics were supplied, although cooking utensils and sharper knives are recommended. A little better maintenance of outdoor areas would also help make it more hospitable. Overall, the studio cottage was comfortable, and we were grateful we could bring our dog!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

6/10 Okay

Steve K.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Will you like it, depends.

If you’re fancy folks you probably won’t be happy. If you like complete quiet, country living, wild life, a small bed, a few bugs, a small tree frog, and lack of deep cleaning, you’ll like it. The property is a work in progress. We’re seniors, enjoyed our two day stay. We spent most of our time sight seeing and eating out. We probably won’t stay again, the bed is to small.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

8/10 Good

Calvin

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
This is a gem in the jungle if you enjoy outdoors n don’t mind tiny cozy little space. It probably started with excellent design at first n overtime lack of maintenance. It left quite a few spots unfinished. Some walls had wood pieces cut out n looked like ready for some decorative tiles to be placed. The wall mirror had a missing corner etc. The place is clean though n the little fireplace is good enough to warm up the room. The kitchen is tiny but is equipped with all the spices, cooking oil n vinegar, pots n pans for light cooking. It even has an expresso pour over machine n a table top Melita drip dispenser for making coffee. It would be nice to have a good working sink strainer if no garbage disposal, and more luxury to have a portable dishwasher to keep the dishes clean. I did my best to hand clean the dishes n enjoyed reorganizing them better on the rack. However the tiny bathroom is the worst part of the place n definitely needs immediate fix ups. The hot water supply is insufficient that my shower became cold towards the end on both nights. The hot n cold water switches were loose n the shower head was missing. There’s a door casually painted as back wall but it doesn’t fit as a permanent solution plus its lock was worn or broken to the yard n bad for safety. It also has an odor either from toilet or drainage that needs to be flushed well with sanitizer or bleach. We come to this area often n this time we had a different experience other than staying in a hotel.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

About the host

Hosted by Stephen Olsson

Host profile image
I am an independent filmmaker and television producer, and run a non-profit media organization. I take pictures, tell stories, and share other cultures with the world. I've lived in several European countries, as well as India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Jamaica and Ukraine. I like to help people enjoy this unique property, and the surrounding area, to have memorable experiences in this special place.

Why they chose this property

A wonderful historic schoolhouse, in a lovely natural setting, in one of the most beautiful areas of northern California.

What makes this property unique

Unique accommodation in a natural environment which offers hiking, kayaking, bicycling, numerous beaches, whale watching, redwood forests, Point Reyes National Seashore, and several historic towns, community events and shopping nearby.

Languages:

English, Spanish
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