HISTORY

The Villa Chanticleer's colorful history began in 1910 when it was established as a gathering place for San Francisco's French elite. As many as 200 people would take the horse and buggy ride up the hill to the resort, which at that time consisted of a screened dining pavilion and numerous vacation cabins. The Villa enjoyed a widespread reputation as an exclusive vacation resort until the 40's when it was rumored to have fallen into the hands of shady underworld figures.

Today, this historic gathering place is available to business, industry, educational and recreational groups as a meeting and event place. Overlooking breathtaking Alexander Valley, this 17 acre forested setting, with its wisteria-vined verandah, provides a peaceful surrounding, whatever your needs. A picnic, barbecue and playground areas are also on the premises, along with an adjacent, smaller Annex and two breakout cabins.

The City of Healdsburg purchased the Villa in 1955 and the building has gone through several renovations. The breathtaking view from the dining room overlooks rolling wine country hills. The entrance is graced by a full arbor of luxurious wisteria and a sheared velvet lawn. The Villa has an adjacent, small Annex, an elegant wedding garden with gazebo, a picnic area, barbeque and a children's playground on the premises.