Casa Bella 11984 Main Street • Sunol • CA 94586

Near Niles Canyon, between the cities of Fremont and Pleasanton, sits quaint Sunol, where visitors will find not only a wonderful vintage steam train station, but stunning views of both Pleasanton Ridge and the gently rolling hills that surround the town. And at the heart of this endearing hamlet, a hidden jewel: Casa Bella, an utterly enchanting private venue with so much Old World glamor and stylish, rustic charm, it really must be seen to be truly appreciated.

Upon your arrival, you’ll retreat upstairs to a plush bridal suite to slip on your dress and apply any finishing touches. Here, you’ll find a luxe bedroom, private bath, living/dining area, balcony, and full gourmet kitchen with a stocked coffee and espresso bar, all decked out with the same level of creative, lovely design you’ll soon discover throughout the rest of the property. Sound too dreamy to enjoy for just a little while? No worries—the space also doubles as your romantic honeymoon suite.

When it’s time for the ceremony, step through gates tinted a deep sea-blue into a bountiful garden, where you’ll exchange vows beneath a grand pergola, supported by stone pillars and topped with rough-hewn wooden beams. Bright green foliage winds from the pillars toward the pergola’s roof, ending in a cascade of delicate white flowers. In the background, there’s a softly trickling fountain, and beyond that, a stunning vista of the distant hills.

Now, let’s celebrate! There’s a great spot for a festive cocktail hour—an airy patio overlooking the town, train station, and Pleasanton Ridge. Then, head to the reception hall, with its exposed brick walls, vintage mirrors, dramatic drop-down light pendants, and glittering chandeliers. A cozy fireplace offers a retreat to lounge and chat, and also serves as an option for intimate indoor ceremonies. Casa Bella has so many great décor elements and upgrades already in place and included with your rental (even the bathrooms are ultra-pretty!), there’s no need to hire a decorator or provide additional embellishments…though of course you’re welcome to do so.

If your budget allows, you can lavish your guests with an extra-special treat: Once you’ve wed, step across the street to the Niles Canyon Railway, where your group will board beautifully restored antique train cars and sip cocktails as they savor a nostalgic ride through the valley.

The owners have put an abundance of care into the creation of the entire space, as evidenced by thoughtful design details that guarantee ample options for memorable photographs. We’re particularly in love with the weathered, multi-hued wooden gates accented by a sign reading “This Is Us”, and the wonderful brick “Wall of Love” that is gradually becoming filled with plaques commemorating every couple who’s said “I do” at Casa Bella. Did we mention they’re super animal-friendly? Bring your best furry buddy; they’re more than encouraged.

That’s only natural in fun, quirky Sunol, which once gained notoriety for electing a beloved Black Labrador as its honorary mayor—be sure to visit the statue of handsome Bosco, standing guard outside the post office…now that’s a wedding pic for the books! In fact, thanks to its location in the center of town, so close to a bounty of fabulous photo opportunities, past couples have said that a wedding at Casa Bella felt like having all of Sunol as their own, private venue.