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Historic Sand Rock Farm

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Why We Like This Place

Tucked into a rural valley in the pretty seaside community of Aptos, a former stagecoach route leads to a forested haven—Historic Sand Rock Farm. Established in 1885, the estate flourished as a working ranch, farm, and one of the original family wineries in the Monterey Bay Area through the early 1900s. But by 1999, the farm had fallen into disuse. Enter world-class Chef Lynn Sheehan, who is not only blessed with the proverbial “golden spatula,” she also has a green thumb and a decorator’s eye. Chef Sheehan and her mother, veteran innkeeper Kris Sheehan, transformed the historic estate into an enchanting country inn and celebration venue.

Though just minutes from the beach, Sand Rock Farm rests within 10 acres of sun-dappled woodlands. The focal point of the estate is a wonderful shingled mansion surrounded by acres of meadows, trails, twisting oaks and towering redwoods. Thoughtfully restored, the elegant inn retains an authentic Arts-and-Crafts aesthetic. Rich redwood details and period light fixtures enhance the interiors, while rocking chairs, garden benches and trickling fountains inspire outdoor relaxation. Zen-like tranquility can be found in any of Sand Rock Farm’s lovely gardens, where tiered stone fountains delight hummingbirds and visitors alike. Enjoy a fragrant ramble in Eva’s Garden among heirloom roses, or stroll the Spiral Garden, where vintage lilacs adorn hidden nooks inviting romantic interludes. Equally romantic are the five beautifully appointed guestrooms, which convey a warm, nostalgic ambiance. Amenities include two-person Jacuzzi tubs, hand-printed wallpaper and flower-filled views. Luxurious furnishings like a French hand-carved armoire and an antique half-poster bed make you feel like the Lady of the Manor!

This private country estate also offers an array of wonderful event sites. Elaborate ceremonies unfold in the spacious Redwood Grove, where couples pledge their love among mature redwoods, accompanied by the melodious splashing of a wine-barrel fountain. Beyond the Grove lies the versatile Winery Meadow, 5,000 square feet of level field ringed with soaring trees. Whether dressed with linens and stunning floral centerpieces, or styled California-casual, the Winery Meadow easily combines with any of the other nearby party areas: the rustic Carriage Barn, boasting high whitewashed ceilings and exposed beams; the Heart Redwood Pavilion, with wisteria-covered trellis; the Winery Terrace, an alcoved space that has stone walls and broad stairs; and the Barrel Cellar, where an arched, ivy-clad doorway opens into an open-air dining or dancing space. Aglow with white silk lanterns, the Barrel Cellar is sheltered by the original sand rock walls.

Intimate celebrations often feature the reception rooms of the inn itself. The central redwood staircase affords the bride a graceful entrance into the parlor for an old-fashioned wedding ceremony. Afterwards, French doors swing open onto the expansive dining decks where guests enjoy champagne and delicious appetizers overlooking a lush shade garden.

Sand Rock Farm, located in the heart of organic farming on the Central Coast, works closely with local caterers who partner with neighboring farmers and winemakers to create tantalizing and sustainable local cuisine. In addition, Sand Rock Farm is officially a “Green Hotel.”

Considering avoiding the wedding hoopla altogether? Sand Rock Farm’s romantic Elopement Package makes it easy. So whether you’re planning a lavish gala, a spontaneous getaway or a honeymoon to remember, let Historic Sand Rock Farm introduce you to “the Art of the Good Life,” the well-chosen motto of this gracious retreat.

Capacity

Ceremony	Reception/Special Events	Meetings
Max. Seated Indoors: 150 Max. Seated Outdoors: 250	Max. Seated Indoors: 150 Max. Seated Outdoors: 250 Max. Standing Indoors: 200 Max. Standing Outdoors: 300	Max. Seated: 150
CEREMONY, EVENT/RECEPTION & MEETING CAPACITY: Indoors, Sand Rock Farm holds up to 150 seated or 200 standing guests; outdoors, up to 250 seated or 300 standing guests. Several spaces are available; please call for configuration details.

Fees & Deposits

A $1,500 deposit is required to reserve your date and the balance is due 4 weeks prior to your event. Rental fees range $1,000–4,000 depending on space rented. Meals range $35–100/person. Tax, alcohol and a 20% service charge are additional. A $3.50/person cake-cutting fee may apply.

 

Availability

Year-round, daily, 9am–9pm.

Catering Choose From List Alcohol Provided BYO w/ Corkage Fee Location Uses Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Special Events, Parties Business Functions/Meetings Rehearsal Dinners On-Site Accommodations Services/Amenities Catering: select from list of approved caterers Kitchen Facilities: n/a Tables & Chairs: CBA Linens, Silver, etc.: CBA Restrooms: wheelchair accessible Dance Floor: CBA Bride’s & Groom’s Dressing Area: CBA Meeting Equipment: CBA, extra charge Parking: available, CBA Accommodations: 5 guestrooms Telephone: emergency use only Outdoor Night Lighting: CBA Outdoor Cooking Facilities: CBA Cleanup: provided View: garden, grounds, fountains, hills, forest Other: event coordination CBA

Amplified Music Indoors Outdoors w/ Restrictions Wheelchair Access Wheelchair Accessible Site Views Forest/Wooded Area Fountain/Water Feature Garden Garden Patio/Courtyard Hills Landscaped Grounds Meadow/Fields Mountains Venue Type Banquet Hall/Events Facility Bed and Breakfast Garden Historic/Landmark Building Hotel Inn/Lodge Mansion Private Estate Private Home Retreat Restrictions Alcohol: provided or BYO with corkage fee Smoking: outdoors only with restrictions Music: amplified OK with restrictions Wheelchair Access: yes Insurance: liability required

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