Set on five peaceful acres in the heart of Sonoma’s wine country, Casa de Azel is a handcrafted straw bale home that blends rustic charm with refined comfort. This 2-bedroom, 2-bath retreat offers radiant floor heating, a chef’s kitchen, and sweeping mountain views. Enjoy alfresco dining by the outdoor fireplace or cozy evenings by the indoor hearth—perfect for couples or small groups seeking tranquility near wineries, parks, and local dining.<br /><br /><b>The space</b><br />Welcome to a home that breathes. Casa De Azel is not a standard build; it is an architectural gem constructed from straw bales and earth, designed to keep you cool in the Sonoma summer and cozy during the winter.<br /><br />To stay here is to live inside a piece of art. The walls are thick, organic, and comforting, featuring art niches built directly into the cob. Above you, magnificent curved wooden beams sweep across the ceilings, mirroring the rolling hills outside. There are almost no sharp angles here—just soft curves, radiant heated wood floors that feel amazing underfoot, and a profound sense of quiet that only an earthen home can provide.<br /><br />The Social Spaces: The floor plan is open, airy, and designed for connection. The living room anchors the home with a stone fireplace and minimalist decor that lets the beauty of the walls speak for itself. It looks out over the patio toward the water, creating a seamless visual flow.<br /><br />The kitchen is a culinary playground featuring warm wood cabinetry, pendant lighting, and a unique curved countertop with barstool seating. We’ve added a whimsical chalkboard wall—perfect for announcing the evening's wine menu or giving children a creative outlet while you cook. And yes, when you stand at the kitchen sink, you have a direct view of the natural pond and the ducks that call it home.<br /><br />The Great Outdoors: The property layout is a study in relaxation: house, patio, lawn, then pond. Step through the double doors of the dining room (which seats 8) to the back patio. The outdoor dining table is tucked under the eaves, protecting you from the midday sun or a light evening rain.<br /><br />The 5-acre grounds feature thoughtful Mediterranean landscaping that thrives in this climate. Lounge on the outdoor sofa on the brick patio, grill up a feast on the BBQ, or move to the handcrafted stone fire circle. Sitting there with a glass of local Pinot, watching the sunset hit the mountains and the migratory ducks land on the pond, is the ultimate wine country experience.<br /><br />The sleeping quarters are designed for deep rest. The Primary Bedroom is a sanctuary featuring a King-sized bed, comfortable seating, and glass double doors that open directly to the outside. It showcases the home's cob construction with art niches built right into the walls and built in shelving. The second bedroom offers a plush Queen bed, a bedside table, and serene views. Both rooms are carpeted for comfort and feature overhead fans.<br /><br />The home is served by a spacious, spa-inspired bathroom featuring warm wood cabinetry and a deep soaking tub—perfect for unwinding after a day of hiking. For convenience, there is also a separate laundry room with a washer and dryer.<br /><br />For those who need to stay connected, there is a dedicated office off the kitchen with a built-in desk and inspiring views, making this an ideal "work from anywhere" retreat.<br /><br /><b>Guest access</b><br />Guests have full private access to the entire home and the five-acre property. This includes all indoor living spaces, both bedrooms, both bathrooms, the chef’s kitchen, the dedicated office, and the laundry room. Outdoors, you’ll have exclusive use of the patio, BBQ area, outdoor fireplace, lawn, and the pondside seating areas. On-site parking is available for up to three vehicles.<br /><br />Self check-in is available. After completing the quick pre-check-in verification through our secure guest portal, you’ll receive all the details you need for an easy arrival.<br /><br /><b>Other things to note</b><br />- This home is not equipped with A/C. However, the thick straw bale construction provides exceptional natural insulation, keeping the interior refreshingly cool even on warm Sonoma days.<br />- To preserve the condition of this unique earthen home and for the comfort of future guests with allergies, we have a strict No Pets policy.<br />- You are on five acres of nature. You may hear the gentle sounds of wildlife, including the resident ducks and geese at the pond!<br />- To ensure a seamless check-in, all guests must complete a quick pre-check-in verification through our secure guest portal; a link will be sent after your booking is confirmed.<br />- Please note that during the rainy season (typically October through March), outdoor furniture cushions are stored away to protect them from the elements and ensure they remain clean and dry. Consequently, outdoor seating may not be set up as pictured during these months.