The Barn at River House • Ben Lomond • CA

Nestled in the Santa Cruz mountains just minutes from the tiny enclave of Ben Lomond, River House strikes the perfect balance between a rustic wooded hideaway and a gracious country estate. This two-story California ranch-style home, built entirely of wood and river rock, is set in a large level clearing ringed by oaks and redwoods. Lots of picture windows overlook the sprawling grounds and the San Lorenzo River. Adding to the natural woodland setting, manicured lawns curve around groves of oak and are bordered by flower beds planted with dogwood, rhododendrons, azaleas and lots of annuals for color. A contoured aggregate stone patio offers dancers a large space for tripping the light fantastic, while a flower-lined path encircles the property and leads to the bridal changing cottage. An adjacent county park adds yet more acres of woods.

With 14,000 square feet of lawns alone, the facility is a haven for outdoor events, especially weddings. The bridal procession makes a striking entrance through a wisteria-covered arbor, and continues across the lawn to a gazebo overlooking the river. Set at the foot of an oak, it’s a dreamy sun-dappled spot, not only for the ceremony, but for displaying the wedding cake, too. or opt for an intimate exchange of vows in front of a grove of towering redwood trees. If you’re hosting a formal garden wedding, white umbrella-shaded tables laid with white linens add the right touch of elegance. Or, if you’re like the couple who opted for a country and western theme, square tables with checked tablecloths fit in perfectly with the woodsy setting. A few bales of hay placed here and there were all that was needed to turn River House into a mountain ranch. But even if you’re not planning to wear cowboy boots to dance in, the patio is the place to kick up your heels while the band or DJ plays music on the back deck. And for a memorable final touch, brides love to toss their bouquet from the second-story balcony, which overlooks the patio and gardens.

With its close proximity to Silicon Valley, River House is a great place for corporate functions and private parties, too. Give your staff or coworkers a relaxing break from their daily rigors with a barbecue or company mixer. Or invite your family and friends here for a reunion, anniversary or birthday party. A huge fire pit set off the patio by the side of the house offers a warm and intimate gathering spot—it’ll take the chill off early spring or late fall events. You can also use the expansive covered porch that wraps around the front and side of the house to seat extra guests or as a place to set up a buffet. No matter what kind of event you have in mind, River House offers a setting that’s hard to resist: peaceful, secluded and downright beautiful.