COVID-19 Questions & Information
Existing reservations: What is your current cancellation policy?+
In light of these events, you may be considering postponing your upcoming stay, and we want to assure you that we’re remaining flexible with our policies as we navigate these unprecedented times together. If you prefer to postpone your plans, we understand. We are currently waiving all change fees for reservations arriving before July 30, 2020. If your reservation falls within those dates, we are happy to provide a 100% credit plus $250 toward a stay at another time later this year or sometime in 2021. In other words, the entire amount you paid will be applied as a credit to your new reservation. Simply reach out to let us know your plans, and we will promptly provide a credit certificate for your records.
New reservations: Are you offering flexible booking policies?+
Vacation homes are a sensible option for a time like this. Unlike a hotel that can have hundreds of people in close proximity, a vacation rental offers a unique sanctuary in a private space to enjoy time away with your family. To give you more time to make that decision, we will be accommodating cancellations up to 48 hours prior to arrival through August 31, 2020.
How do you clean your properties?+
We are taking proactive measures that go beyond The Wine Stay’s already high cleaning standards. We adhere to the CDC’s guidelines and have confirmed that the products being used to disinfect each of our vacation rentals will remove 100% of microscopic organisms on surfaces. Our housekeeping teams are experienced and trained to both vigorously clean and disinfect all hard surfaces at every vacation home — including, but not limited to, countertops, sinks, faucets, appliances, door knobs, and floors.
Making Reservations
How do I make a reservation?+
Just click Request to Book on the vacation home you’re interested in. We’ll let you know within 24 hours whether the dates are available. Then you confirm your reservation with a security deposit. Note: Your reservation will not be held until you make the reservation payment. Prices are in US Dollars. The full balance is due 60 days prior to arrival.
Do the prices listed on the website include taxes?+
Yes, if you book from TheWineStay.com. All our fees are spelled out. However, every listing site is unique, and some include only the nightly rate.
What is your cancellation policy?+
If you have an existing reservation with an arrival before July 30, 2020 or are considering making a new reservation, please see the above information for updated policies.
Our standard cancellation policy remains in place for all other reservations: Reservations may be cancelled up to 60 days prior to arrival or 90 days prior to arrival for special event periods (Winter WINELand, Valentine’s Day Weekend, Barrel Tasting Weekend, Passport Weekend, MLK Day, President's Day, Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s). To cancel a reservation, please email Guests@TheWineStay.com and include the booking reference number, which can be found in your reservation confirmation email.
What is the minimum stay?+
Normally, there is a minimum 3-night booking requirement, but we are happy to consider requests for shorter bookings when availability permits. Please check with us. There is no maximum booking limit.
Understanding Fees
Will my security deposit be refunded?+
Yes, in most cases your deposit will be fully refunded within 21 days of departure. However, any property damage will be withheld from your deposit. We will provide a cost breakdown with receipts along with the balance of the deposit within 21 days of departure.
Are there extra charges for gas, electricity or water?+
Normal utility usage is included in the rental price. Many of our countryside homes use propane gas, which is an expensive fuel. We have allocated $50 a day for propane use, which is more than enough for 99% of guests. We want you to fully enjoy all the property has to offer; however, please be advised that propane usage beyond the allocation will be added to your final bill.
Are the pools heated? Is there an extra fee?+
Pools are either solar, propane, electric, and/or sun heated. If auxiliary heat is available, pools are heated to approximately 82 degrees from mid-April to mid-September, depending on the climate. In the event auxiliary heat is needed during cooler seasons, there is a $100 initial heat-up fee and an additional $25 per day heating fee. All hot tubs are heated year-round as part of the daily reservation amount.
Knowing the Rules
County regulations limit occupancy, parking, and more.+
Please read the complete rules HERE.
Can we play sound systems outdoors?+
Outdoor sound systems are not allowed. According the Sonoma County Vacation Rental Performance Standards, “Outdoor amplified sound shall not be allowed at any time associated with a vacation rental unless specifically permitted by a Cultural or Special Event Permit, or Use Permit.”
Are pets allowed?+
In general, pets are not allowed, but exceptions may be made to this rule depending on the particular rental home. Please contact us with special requests.
Is smoking permitted?+
There is no smoking allowed inside our rental homes.
Checking In
When is check-in and check-out?+
Check-in time is 3:00 pm and checkout is 11:00 am. Depending on the rental’s reservation schedule, we may be able to accommodate special requests with prior arrangement.
How and when do I get the keys to the vacation home?+
Two weeks before your arrival you’ll receive detailed access information.
Planning Your Stay
Are bed linens, towels and paper products included?+
All our rental homes are well stocked with bedding, bath towels (and pool towels), toilet paper, paper towels, basic cleaning supplies, and bath toiletries.
Are there supplies for the BBQ (fireplace and fire pit if there is one)?+
Yes, you will find tools and supplies on-site.
What if I have questions about how to work something at the vacation home?+
Each property has a Welcome Book with detailed information on how to use its amenities. And if you have any problems or questions, The Wine Stay staff is available 24/7.
Is there Internet access?+
All our vacation rentals have Wi-Fi Internet access.
Is there parking?+
There is off-street parking for a minimum of 3 cars. Please let us know in advance if you expect more vehicles.
Entertaining Guests
Can we bring guests to the rental home?+
Guests may visit you as many times as you like, whenever you like, without additional cost. However, for any overnight guests, you must make prior arrangements with The Wine Stay. Sonoma County regulations limit day guests to a maximum of 6 people above the maximum overnight guests allowed, excluding children under 3 years of age.