"For a hotel that’s nearly a century old, the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa has done a beautiful job staying both relevant and desired by travelers and locals. Healthful relaxation and rejuvenation are central, with its coveted location atop an ancient hot spring. Mineral pools feature water sourced from said hot spring, both throughout the spa and at the main pool. The main pool features a proper poolside food and drink menu at the five-seat Water Tower Bar or ordered from a chaise lounge. The seasonal cucumber-honeydew gazpacho with spiced yogurt is cool and subtly sweet, and the fried, lime-doused Brussels sprouts are addictive. Salads, poke, and sandwiches like Nashville hot chicken or a fried green tomato po’boy round out the menu at this casual, social spot that offers, in addition to an expected alcoholic drink selection, several wines and house-batched cocktails on tap — it’s wine country, after all." - Laura Smith Borrman