Timber Cove Resorts 60th Anniversary Celebration
Celebrating 60 Years of Coastal Bliss at Timber Cove Resort
For six decades, Timber Cove Resort has stood as a serene sentinel at the threshold of Sonoma and Mendocino counties, welcoming travelers to California’s untamed Northern Coast. Built in 1963, this iconic property spans 25 awe-inspiring acres atop the Sonoma coastline, offering a unique blend of midcentury charm, rugged natural beauty, and warm hospitality.Timber Cove held a 60th Anniversary Celebration, a week-long event (July 25–29, 2023) brimming with thoughtfully curated activities. From fireside chats to yoga sessions, hiking excursions, and wine tastings, the festivities honored the resort’s legacy while showcasing the bounty of its stunning surroundings. The highlight of the week for me was undoubtedly the 60th Anniversary Dinner, featuring Wayfarer Vineyard wines and a menu by celebrated Chef Dustin Valette.
An Evening to Remember: The 60th Anniversary Dinner
Held at the resort’s beloved Coast Kitchen, the four-course dinner was a testament to Timber Cove’s commitment to celebrating local flavors and artistry. Chef Valette, known for his Healdsburg restaurants Valette and The Matheson, designed a menu that seamlessly blended indulgence and sophistication.
The evening began with Valette Estate Osetra Caviar, served with buttermilk brioche and whipped crème fraîche. Paired with the 2020 Wayfarer Estate Fort Ross-Seaview Chardonnay, this opener set a tone of refined elegance, with the wine’s bright acidity perfectly complementing the dish’s richness.
Next came Liberty Farms Duck, showcasing sous vide breast, confit pavé, liver, pickled dried cherry, and cocoa nibs. This artful composition was matched with the 2021 Wayfarer Estate Fort Ross-Seaview Pinot Noir, a wine as layered and dynamic as the dish itself.
The pièce de résistance was the Wagyu Beef Duo, featuring butter-poached New York and 400-day Bushi, accompanied by smoked potato mousseline, shaved truffles, and mushroom fondue. Not one but two exceptional wines elevated this course: the 2014 Wayfarer Estate Golden Mean Pinot Noir and the 2014 Wayfarer Estate Mother Pinot Noir.
For dessert, Dark Chocolate Pavé with white chocolate snow, burnt caramel, and toasted hazelnuts offered a decadent finale, perfectly balanced by the 2014 Wayfarer Estate The Traveler Pinot Noir.
Morning Serenity on the Sonoma Coast
After such an unforgettable evening, retreating to my ocean-view room felt like the perfect close to the day. The cozy midcentury aesthetic, complete with a Crosley LP record player and a fireplace, provided a comforting contrast to the dramatic coastline just beyond the window.
The next morning, I awoke to the sound of waves crashing below and enjoyed coffee on my private redwood deck. The view of the Pacific, framed by Benjamino Bufano’s iconic Peace Obelisk, was a powerful reminder of Timber Cove’s enduring connection to both art and nature.
Timber Cove: A Timeless California Icon
Timber Cove Resort is more than a hotel—it’s a destination that encapsulates the best of California living. Its harmonious blend of coastal heritage, modern comfort, and culinary excellence makes it a place I return to time and again.
After 60 years, Timber Cove remains a treasured retreat for travelers seeking a genuine connection to the Sonoma Coast. With its rich history, thoughtful design, and dedication to local craftsmanship, it’s clear this timeless icon will continue to inspire and delight for decades to come.
