As the movement towards more mindful and eco-friendly travel expands, numerous upscale hotels are reimagining luxury by incorporating sustainable experiences. A notable leader in this trend is the Farmhouse Inn located in Sonoma County, an enchanting 25-room boutique hotel nestled in the Russian River Valley. This cherished establishment is showcasing a model for low-impact travel by teaming up with Volvo to provide plug-in hybrid vehicles, with ambitions for all-electric options in the near future.
Many hotels are shifting away from traditional house vehicles—long characterized by luxury SUVs or sleek sedans—towards more sustainable alternatives. In California’s Wine Country, famous for its breathtaking coastal drives and towering redwoods, the transition to electric cars offers guests a new way to take in the scenery: quietly and sustainably.
A Thoughtful Exploration Experience
The partnership between the Farmhouse Inn and Volvo—esteemed for its dedication to eco-friendly innovations—marks a significant development in green hospitality. “Our collaboration with Volvo really stemmed from shared values,” notes Matthew de Quillien, General Manager of the Farmhouse Inn and its affiliated property, 27 North. “We align ourselves with brands that represent thoughtful design and responsibility, and Volvo’s dedication to safety and sustainability made it a natural match.”
During my recent visit to the Farmhouse Inn, I had the opportunity to explore the beautiful surroundings in their current house vehicle, the Volvo XC90 Recharge T8. This plug-in hybrid has been a part of the Farmhouse experience since 2020, and I was fortunate enough to enjoy one of the last rides before the inn transitions to the new all-electric EX90s. My journey took me along winding back roads toward Jenner-by-the-Sea, followed by a clifftop picnic lunch from the Farmhouse Restaurant at Timber Cove.
Next, I drove along the iconic Highway 1, passing through charming Bodega Bay—the setting of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film *The Birds*—before visiting Sebastopol, notable for its rich apple farming tradition, and returning just in time for a delightful dinner.
Driving Toward Sustainability
De Quillien emphasizes that driving an electric vehicle completely transforms the travel experience. “We’ve observed that having EVs available fosters a more relaxed and intentional pace,” he explains. “There’s a mindfulness that arises, allowing guests to regard Sonoma as more than just a destination, but as an essence.”
Few places encapsulate this sentiment better than the Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, a protected area boasting ancient coast redwoods—some exceeding 1,400 years in age. Arriving in a quiet, emission-free vehicle enhances the awe and reverence for these towering giants.
Guests can opt for exhilarating drives lasting up to four hours or choose a “Dinner Drive” serviced by a concierge-provided chauffeur. The concierge team takes care of all details—vehicle selection, welcome communications, and personalized route planning. “Our team takes pleasure in curating scenic drives, from redwood loops to coastal marvels,” de Quillien highlights, emphasizing favorites like the Westside Road, where visitors can stop at local wineries for tastings.
Charging is hassle-free, with on-site stations at the inn (where vehicles arrive fully charged), ensuring guests can explore without concerns about running out of power. With a range of up to 300 miles, the new EX90s promise effortless travel across the county for wine tastings or serene coastal drives.
The Farmhouse Inn Experience
For the Farmhouse Inn, the transition to all-electric vehicles represents more than just a trend; it’s an extension of a deep-rooted commitment to responsible tourism. As a family-owned property for five generations, they prioritize sourcing ingredients locally, support regenerative agriculture at their on-site Chalk Hill Farm, and offer wellness activities inspired by nature.
“While the beauty of wine country is undeniable, it does have an ecological impact, particularly with how guests explore the area,” de Quillien remarks. “Our collaboration with Volvo aligns with our mission to provide luxurious experiences founded on stewardship.” The EV initiative has received considerable praise and attention from guests.
“For many, it’s their first encounter with a Volvo, and they are often pleasantly surprised by how intuitive and enjoyable the ride is. It has become a memorable detail that guests recall long after their stay,” he adds.
A Natural Partnership with Common Values
“We design our vehicles with the welfare of people and the planet in mind, seeking hotel partners who resonate with our principles,” states Kelly Mason, Head of Communications for Volvo Car Americas. “The Farmhouse Inn represents this vision of thoughtful luxury, delivering exceptional experiences.”
Indeed, the inn’s EV program is merely a component of a wider commitment to mindfulness and seasonal experiences crafted with care. Culinary offerings from Michelin-starred executive chefs Craig Wilmer and Amanda Hoang highlight locally sourced ingredients—featuring fresh sea bass from Bodega Bay and homemade bread served with honey from the inn’s own beehives.
Guests enjoy a true home-away-from-home ambiance, with inviting accommodations adorned in fine European linens, scenic balconies for tranquil mornings, and rejuvenating activities like poolside yoga. Thanks to Volvo, this restorative experience extends beyond the inn, blending understated Scandinavian luxury with peaceful journeys.
The Farmhouse Inn is not alone in redefining luxury travel; Volvo has collaborated with a variety of like-minded hotels across the country—from a Gilded Age mansion in Upstate New York to an Art Deco treasure in Miami—to provide electric vehicles as an upscale amenity.
A Blueprint for Sustainable Hospitality
In Sonoma, de Quillien is actively exploring opportunities to enhance the Volvo experience further. “At 27 North in Healdsburg, we are crafting itineraries for chauffeured visits to local farms. It’s about creating seamless, elevated experiences that connect guests with the heart of Sonoma.” As travelers increasingly seek meaningful and wellness-focused experiences, collaborations like this illuminate a promising path forward. The partnership between the Farmhouse Inn and Volvo illustrates that reducing one’s environmental impact does not compromise luxury; it can transform it.
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