Archive for Places
Warner Springs Ranch Looking Back, Looking Forward
Posted by: | CommentsHISTORIC WARNER SPRINGS RANCH OFFERS “END OF AN ERA” DEAL
Have you ever driven to the northeast corner of San Diego County over the dizzying heights of Sunshine Summit (all of 3,282 feet) and into the lovely Valle de San Jose? Or over Palomar Mountain past the majestic Palomar Observatory? If you have had the pleasure, or not, either route leads to Warner Springs Ranch. For those who know....well, you know all the reasons to travel this way and there's no need to say anything more. For those who have never visited this most special destination and this most beautiful corner of San Diego County to you I say, "The time is now!"
In celebration of its upcoming sale to the Pala Band of Mission Indians, and prior to its closure before undergoing a major refurbishment, the historic Warner Springs Ranch is offering an “End of an Era” hotel deal. Guests who stay two nights, Sunday through Thursday, can receive a discounted rate of $70 per night, plus tax; two-night stays over a weekend are also being offered at a discounted rate of $89 per night, plus tax.
Warner Spring Ranch, located in the picturesque foothills of Palomar Mountain in San Diego’s Inland North County, offers a rich early California history. Once a Cupa Indian Village, the property also served as a Butterfield Overland Stage Coach stop, hot mineral springs baths and semi-private membership resort in recent years. Its upcoming sale to the Pala Band of Mission Indians will return the land to its original inhabitants.
The upcoming closure for renovations has spurred a flurry of reservations from people who want to visit the property during its historic heyday. Guests who have a history of vacationing at the Ranch and ‘Old California’ history buffs are booking visits now before the modernization work begins.
Guests can sleep in rooms once occupied by such celebrities as Kit Carson, Loretta Young, F. Scott Fitzgerald, John Wayne, Clark Gable and even Meatloaf and Ozzie Osbourne who visited in recent years.
Warner Springs Ranch is a 234-room resort featuring natural hot mineral springs, championship golf, horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, a private airport offering glider rides and more. Located in the scenic Valle de San Jose at an elevation of 3,200 feet, the historic property has been welcoming visitors to the region since the stage coach era.
To book an “End of an Era” hotel deal, contact the reservations department at 760-782-4220. And look forward to an improved Warner Springs Ranch but never forget the past and come take of the waters.
More Photos
Agritourism is About People Getting Close to the Land
Posted by: | CommentsStory & Photos by Barbara L. Steinberg
Near Fairfield and just off Interstate
80, the turn-in at Erickson Ranch is almost as obscure as the road that leads
you there. The driveway, dirt and gravel, is bordered by orchards and aging
farm equipment. The “parking lot” has no striping, but hay bales act as
bumpers. Exiting your vehicle, you are likely to be greeted by a pack of
tail-wagging farm dogs – old labs, some terriers, and a cheerful pit bull named
Rocky.
Farmers Ray and Victoria Erickson lead a
life from days-gone by and one that you may envy. A third-generation farmer,
Ray’s known farming his entire life; his grandparents farmed this same land. After a complete remodel, he and Victoria
moved back to the family farm about six years ago. But to maintain this life on the land they
work hard. Really hard! Victoria’s day job is that of a full-time RN. While Ray,
spends his days plowing, planting, pruning, and picking. During their
agritourism season they are open to the public six days a week!
“The ranch has become more of
everything,” said Victoria. “Originally it was just a farm stand.” One thing
led to another. The Erickson’s increased their dried fruit production – the
most popular item is their Blenheim apricots. Then Victoria started making jams
and apple butter and they acquired a chili roaster. They also grow cut flowers,
which are popular with local brides who cut their own bouquets. According to
Victoria, the number of visitors has increased and the visitor type has
changed. “It used to be mostly women who were canning and wanted a variety of fruit,”
she said. “Now, we’re getting more families – folks who want to see where food
comes from. Lots of people from the Bay Area have discovered us.”
A 2009 survey conducted by the UC Davis
Small Farm Program (SPF) showed that many of California’s small farms are
reaping the benefits of agritourism. Of the 554 responses (2,000 surveys were
mailed), 332 farmers identified themselves as conducting agricultural tourism.
“The total number of respondents hosted more than 2.4 million tourists,” said
Penny Leff, SPF Agtourism Coordinator. “But this doesn’t account for the
farmers who didn’t respond. Clearly there are many more people visiting. The Dell'Osso Pumpkin Maze in Lathrop had 140,000 visitors last year. That’s a huge number!”
According to the survey, farmers are looking
to increase revenues from direct sales and/or event fees. More farms are figuring out how to do
weddings – especially wineries – and events in orchards. The survey found that
pumpkin patches and corn mazes have become incredibly popular. Erickson’s has a small pumpkin patch as one
of their seasonal offerings. Not far
away in Dixon, Cool Patch Pumpkins’ roadside pumpkin stand has evolved into the
“world’s largest corn maze” authenticated by the Guinness World Book of
Records. The combined effort attracts
thousands of people each year.
“Wineries are still the most popular part of agritourism,” according to Penny
Leff. “The wineries taught everyone
else...set an example...of how to do it." To prove her point, try a visit
to Fairfield’s Suisun Valley. Equidistant between Sacramento and San Francisco,
just a few years ago there were only two tasting rooms in
the valley. The
numbers are multiplying and agritourism is flourishing. Vezér Family Vineyard
and Blue Victorian Winery owned by Frank and Liz Vezér are but two of the
newcomers. The wineries welcome guests to their tasting rooms and provide a
spectacular backdrop for weddings, meetings, and concerts. Both the Blue
Victorian and Ledgewood Creek (another Suisun Valley winery) offer guests and
groups the rare occasion to enjoy the agricultural setting, a wonderful glass
of wine, and a little bocce ball.
Agritourism is also about education. Rush
Ranch Open Space and the Center for Land Based Learning are prime examples.
Both offer educational opportunities on the importance of farming and the
preservation of the land. Interpretive displays, living history, wagon rides,
docent-led hikes, and team building opportunities are closely tied to
agritourism programs and bringing guests close to the land. Craig McNamara,
owner of Sierra Orchards, founded the Center to educate students about
agriculture. “Educational field days
elicit a huge amount interest even with adults to come see the farm,” said
Marion Adams, Center for Land Based Learning. “And there’s a huge trend for
farm weddings.” Revenues generated from special events help support both
nonprofits.
Day-of coordinator Genevieve Roja, owner
of Lily Spruce, loves the Center for Land Based Learning. “The facility is
gorgeous – the 100-year-old house is and a huge olive tree-lined drive leading
up to house. It’s like something from a movie,” she said. “Some clients are more thoughtful andI encourage them to use as much local produce as possible. Someone who interested in recycling and
composting.“ All of this is part of the Center’s philosophy, too.
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is
the growing trend for smaller farms according to Penny Leff. “You become a member and get fresh produce
delivered from the farm.” The CSAs have open-house days for members and invite
you to the farm and do tours. “It’s a direct connection to fresh food and a
place for families to visit,” said Penny.
Eat Well Farms near the Center for Land Based Learning does everything
from Summer Solstice to Pumpkin Harvest events for their members.
The “from farm to table” principles are
growing and many more people are seeking out local farms and agricultural
programs as getaways. Farm and wine trails exist as far south as San Diego
County and in Tehama County to the north.
Back at Erickson Ranch, a tall and
lanky Ray is the picture-perfect farmer. Torn jeans, mustache, and
broad-brimmed hat. “People come here to see Ray,” says Victoria. “They want to
talk to the person who does this and Ray loves to share his story.”
Yosemite’s GreenPath is Getting Greener
Posted by: | CommentsEnvironmentally Friendly Lodging & Habitat Open in Yosemite Valley
Visitors to Yosemite National Park should get ready
to experience the best side of green with the
debut of the Park's totally earth-friendly Habitat store and some very green lodging options.
With products ranging from
tee shirts made from recycled plastic bottles and children's games made
of soy, to organic snacks and solar powered water bottles that double as
flashlights, the new Habitat store offers a range of affordable gifts,
clothing and outdoor gear in a completely eco-friendly retail
environment.
Operated by Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts at Yosemite, Inc., Habitat exemplifies the company's award-winning GreenPath® environmental stewardship program. Its 1,000-square-foot interior is a floor-to-ceiling exhibit of green interior design and retailing. Habitat's display fixtures are made from recycled items that have been used within Delaware North Companies Parks & Resort at Yosemite's operations.
Throughout Habitat
shoppers will find educational signage focusing on Yosemite's
environmental stewardship projects, and impressive statistics about
waste diversion, energy savings and water usage. A selection of phrases
can be found throughout the store, such as "Yosemite recycled 28 tons of
plastic in 2009. If you laid the bottles end-to-end they would equal
111 miles or the distance of over seven round trips from Yosemite Valley
to Half Dome."
Habitat is currently open Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Beginning May 26, 2010, Habitat will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The store is located at 9015 Village Drive, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389. For additional information, please call the store at 209-372-8453.
If this isn't enough green for you, the Yosemite Lodge at the Falls just unveiled two prototype guest rooms on the cutting edge of environmentally-friendly interior architecture and design. The two rooms at The Lodge are the first of their kind in Yosemite National Park.
The eco-friendly guest rooms were designed with an eye toward an eventual roll-out throughout the Lodge's 245 rooms. The prototypes offer an opportunity for Delaware North Companies and the National Park Service to evaluate the success of the overall design and gather guest feedback from those who stay in the rooms. An additional goal is the eventual certification of Yosemite Lodge at the Falls as a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and Energy Star property.
Room Entry
A new electronic
key card entry system integrates with the room's energy controls, using a
lock that requires 50% fewer batteries than older locks, with the
batteries lasting for nearly four years. After unlocking the room, the
guest places the key card in a wall slot just inside the door. With a
faint click, the key card activates select circuits that power lighting
and electronics. When the guest removes the key from the slot upon
leaving, the room reverts to its unoccupied, energy-saver state,
automatically reducing the demand for power to circuits that feed the
television and accessory lights.
Bedding & Linens
The American-made, 100% organic cotton sheets were produced in a solar-powered factory in Rhode Island. The bed's blanket cover, throw and window drapery are made from washable cotton matelasse.
Lighting
Handsome new steel wall sconces, pendants and floor lamps in the guest rooms use energy-saving compact fluorescent bulbs, which use one-third the energy and last roughly ten times longer than standard incandescent bulbs.
Flooring
With fibers produced in part from recycled plastic bottles and a backing derived from old tires, the carpet tiles in the guest rooms add warmth and comfort underfoot with a small carbon footprint.
Vanity
& Countertop
Produced just
outside San Francisco,
the countertop is made of 85% glass collected from curbside recycling bins.
This striking surface alerts guests that there's something different
and special about their room, especially when paired with drinking
glasses made from wine bottles.
Furnishings
Richard Kollath designed a line of Old Hickory furnishings unique to the green rooms at Yosemite Lodge at the Falls featuring distinctive, inset bow tie joinery. Like other Old Hickory furnishings and accessories in the Yosemite Valley, this rustic, durable collection is made using mid-western hickory saplings - the hardest wood in North America (30% harder than oak) and a renewable source that continually re-sprouts from the same stump.
Recycle Caddies
Kollath McCann's
prototype divided recycling caddies were also made by Old Hickory.
Water
The new shower and bath fixtures in the Yosemite Lodge prototype rooms are high-performing, water-efficient models that will save nearly 5,000 gallons of water each year, using just 1.28 gallons per flush.
Paint
The rooms are painted using California-based Kelly-Moore paints with low- and zero-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds).
GreenPath®, which began in
Yosemite National Park over a
decade ago, has since expanded to Delaware North Companies' 200-plus
venues across the world. A sophisticated environmental stewardship
program actively engaging employees at every level, GreenPath® ensures
environmental considerations are
incorporated into all business decisions. The program's initiatives are
showcased in comprehensive recycling, composting and other
waste-diversion programs, energy and water conservation, employee and
guest interpretation and education, sustainable, local and organic food
policies, strategic planning and partnerships, product purchasing and
fuel consumption. As a result, Delaware North Companies is one of the
first hospitality companies in the United States - and the first
operating in a national park - to earn 14001 environmental management
registration in the International Organization for Standardization
(ISO), a worldwide federation of national standards from some 140
countries.
ABOUT DELAWARE NORTH COMPANIES PARKS & RESORTS AT YOSEMITE, INC.
The Ahwahnee, Yosemite Lodge at the Falls and Wawona Hotel are operated by Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts at Yosemite, an affiliate of Delaware North Companies and an authorized National Park Service concessioner overseeing lodging, dining, guest recreation activities and transportation services in Yosemite.
California Wildflowers will really deliver this year
Posted by: | Comments
Wildflower Power!
by Barbara L. Steinberg
Spring heralds an explosion of color as California hillsides, mountains, valleys and deserts come to life after a long winter's nap. A variety of climates and terrain keeps California wildflowers blooming throughout the year, but at no other time is the petaled pageantry this prolific. Especially in 2008, after generous winter rains and snows have blessed the entire state. Wet winters almost without fail mean an eye-popping wildflower season. And this year's wet and cold winter, will deliver the one, two punch we needed for the wildflower season of your dreams.
Wildflower names like scarlet monkey-flower, Indian paint brush, Western cranesbill and hummingbird sage stir exotic images. These are but a few of the hundreds of wildflower species found in California.
Everywhere the landscape is transformed into a palette of color. Fields of blue cornflowers, lupine and baby-blue eyes rival any Spring sky. Hills and dales are sun-splashed with the yellows and oranges of California Poppies, wild mustard and goldfields. The High Desert is a Technicolor showing of desert candles, Mariposa lilies and white and pink primroses. In the foothills, tiny "redbuds" clinging to leafless branches are some of the earliest signs of Spring. Later, at the higher elevations, dogwood blossoms lace the trees.
Regardless of when visitors plan to take a walk on the wild(flower) side, they should keep in mind several helpful tips:
* It's against the law to pick wildflowers in California. They are pleasures for the eye only.
* It's best to stick to specified trails so as not to damage fragile wildflowers and plants.
* Some wildflowers close up at night -- especially in the desert -- and need an hour or so of morning warmth to open up.
* Both wildflowers and cactus flowers depend on rain. A quick call to any of the areas listed or to local visitor bureaus can confirm that the flowering has begun.
Following is a partial list of the many wildflower viewing areas in Northern and Southern California.
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA WILDFLOWERS
Jepson Prairie Preserve, Solano County (530/758-5093)
The time to visit Jepson is late February through late April. Violas and owl's clover are among the wildflowers lending sun-color to the countryside. The tiny blue downingia can be found here, too. Wildflower Tours led by docents are free, but must be scheduled in advance.
Feather River Canyon, Plumas County (800/326-2247) Cascading waterfalls and wildflowers in the spring highlight the canyon's natural beauty - especially showy from mid-March through June with a constantly changing display of wildflower color. Early color may be seen in the yellows of the delicate waterfall buttercups and the reds of redbud shrub followed by the delicate white dogwood blossoms. Later wildflower colors may be seen in the yellow bush monkey flower hanging from the rock walls and the blues of the shrubby silver lupine.
Chico's Bidwell Park, Butte County (530/891-4671)
Blossom-filled wildflower walks range from easy strolls to climbing over rougher terrain. The Yahl Trail from Big Chico Creek to Brown's Hole, for instance, gradually stretches uphill for some two and a half miles while the round-trip on the North Rim Trail covers about nine miles of varying grades. Spring brings out lupines, poppies, delphiniums, buttercups and Western Redbuds.
Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County (415/464-5100, ext. 2)
During March, April and early May, for many people, the sea views from Chimney Rock, near the lighthouse, take second-place to the sight of Douglas iris, violets, goldfields, lupines, poppies, baby blue-eyes and more. Each month brings a different batch of wildflower blooms.
San Bruno Mountain State and County Parks, San Mateo County (650/363-4020)
The Summit Loop--a three-mile walk that gains a bit in elevation--is the place to find yarrow, Wright's paintbrush, sun cups, seaside daisies, hummingbird sage, goldfields and others. The best wildflower-viewing times are in March and April.
South Yuba State Park, Nevada County (530/432-2546)
The volunteer-built Independence Trail is one of the few nature trails in the U.S. to have wheelchair access. From late March to early June, a spectacular array of wildflowers -- California Indian pink, delphinium, California pipevine, mock orange, iris, pink phlox, white fairy lantern, yellow cat's ear -- are visible here. More good wildflower viewing -- though not wheelchair accessible -- is along the Sierra Gateway Trail. This trail is about 15 road miles from Independence Trail, but only eight miles or so down the South Yuba River. Wildflower bloom here begins in late February and runs into April.
Sierra National Forest, Mariposa County (559/297-0706)
From El Portal, a mile below Yosemite National Park, the Hite Cove Trail traverses the South Fork of the Merced River. The trail -- about eight miles in all -- leads past 100 or so species of wildflowers. In March, April and early May, the ground is carpeted with baby blue-eyes, lupines, California poppies, mariposa lilies and other wildflower blossoms.
Kern County (800/500-KERN)
If your schedule doesn't allow for hiking, Kern County offers driving views of California wildflowers. In Kern River Canyon along Hwy. 178, lupine, blue dicks and popcorn flowers will delight you. On Hwy. 223 at Hwy. 58, be sure to stop for the poppies and owl's clover. In the Glennville-Woody area, you will be treated to fields of wild mustard and yellow thistle. For more information, contact: Kern County Board of Trade, 2101 Oak Street, Bakersfield, CA 93302
WILDFLOWER FESTIVALS & EVENTS
March: Squaw Valley Herb Garden, Fresno County (559/332-2909 or 800/579-8043)
Tours of wildflowers, herbs & native plants feature guided walk, identification of local wildflowers, native plants and cultivated herbs, storytelling, history, recipes, remedies, demonstrations and refreshments. By appointment. Squaw Valley Herb Gardens are located at 31785 E. Kings Canyon Road, Squaw Valley, CA 93675.
March: Blossom Day Festival, Sanger (559/875-4575)
Car show, a 10k run and two-mile walk, and a street fair with 50 arts and crafts booths, live music, and food booths with funnel cakes and Mexican specialties in surroundings that are expected to include the annual spring flowers in bloom.
April: Mather Vernal Pool Flower Walks, Rancho Cordova (916/737-WILD)
Two-hour tour to explore this magic carpet of flowers. These unique wildflowers bloom only for a brief period in the spring. Sponsored by the Sacramento Chapter of the California Native Plants Society.
April: Bufferlands Birds & Blooms Tour, Sacramento (916/875-9174)
California poppies, lupine, owl's clover, and baby blue-eyes grow around the uplands and wetlands edges. Thousoundsa of waterfowl and other wetland birds winter at the Fishhead Lake wetlands. Meeting location is weather dependent.
April: Heron Festival & Wildflower Brunch, Kelseyville (800/525-3743)
Treat yourself to a scrumptious brunch outdoors under the trees with birds singing overhead! The Heron Festival and Wildflower Brunch combine a wide range of individual and family activities for everyone who loves nature and wants to learn more about it. All activities are FREE, except the pontoon boat tours and the Wildflower Brunch.
April: Western Railway Museum,
Suisun City (707/374-2978)
The Scenic Limited takes visitors on a six-mile round-trip ride
on the
old Sacramento Northern Railway,
south from Highway 12. The trip lasts
about an hour and passengers catch views of the native wildflowers that
cover
the rolling hills and fields.
May: The AVIA Wildflower Triathlons Festival, Bradley (805/472-3211 or 800/310-2313) View scenic wildflowers in their natural setting; triathlon competitions; photographic exhibits, arts and crafts, food and entertainment. For more information, contact: Monterey County Parks-Lake San Antonio, P.O. Box 2620, Bradley, CA 93426.
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA WILDFLOWERS
During wildflower blooming season (from March through May), visitors to southern California can take advantage of the 24-hour Theodore Payne Wildflowers Foundation hotline in Sun Valley, (818/768-3533). The hotline offers weekly updates on wildflower status in the Antelope Valley, Santa Monica Mountains, Angeles National Forest, Joshua Tree National Monument, and Anza Borrego Desert State Park.
Figueroa Mountain Recreation Area, Santa Barbara County (805/925-9538.)
Located near the town of Los Olivos is La Jolla Spring. March and April are the best months to see phacelias, mariposa lilies, lupine, delphiniums and a bouquet of other wildflower blooms. As a result of a major wildfire last fall, a spectacular wildflower season is expected this year.
Point Mugu State Park, Ventura County (818/880-0363)
In February and March, along the Ray Miller Trail, dainty shooting stars are out in multitude together with larkspur, sage and rattleweed. Other trails good for glimpses of spring color include La Jolla Valley Trail and Mugu Peak Trail.
Antelope Valley State Poppy Reserve, Los Angeles County (661/724-1180)
Just 15 miles west of Lancaster, visitors will be amazed by 1,700-acres of California poppies and wildflowers. April, May and June are generally the best months; travelers are advised to confirm the flowering.
Topanga State Park, Los Angeles County (818/768-3533)
Located in the Santa Monica Mountains, this park abounds in widlflower blossoms. Canyon sunflowers, poppies, sage, lilies, Chinese houses and foxglove blooms come out early and can last well into the summer. A good starting place is the four-mile Musch Ranch Trail.
Joshua Tree National Monument, Riverside County (760/367-5500)
Wildflowers begin to blossom in Pinto Basin. Beavertail, chollo and pincushion cacti bloom from late April until June. Evening primroses, desert dandelions, lupines, goldfields, desert stars, Mojave asters and various other wildflowers also dot this desert landscape. Starting near the Cottonwood Visitor Center, the four-mile Lost Palms Oasis Trail offers one of the better walks.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, San Diego County (760/767-5311)
In February and March, the desert terrain is brightened by red, pink, yellow and orange cacti flowers. Borrego Palm Canyon Trail (three palm-studded miles round-trip to Palm Canyon oasis) is a popular place to see cactus blossoms this time of year. More than 600 species of wildflowers are on view, including fireweed, desert lavender, white forget-me-nots, indigo bush and California fuchsias.
Torrey Pines State Reserve, San Diego County (858/755-2063)
This oceanfront terrain is covered with sand verbena, brittlebush, sun cups, wild snapdragons, California poppies, monkey flowers, shooting stars, phacelia, rockroses, golden yarrow and blue delphiniums. A well-labeled native garden center outside the adobe visitor center provides a more formal viewing experience.
WILDFLOWER FESTIVALS & EVENTS
April: Orange Cove Blossom Festival, Orange Cove (559/626-5179)
Parade, vendors, and pageant to crown the Orange Blossom Queen.
April: Theodore Payne Native Garden Tour, Los Angeles (818/768-1802)
Thirty-nine Los Angeles-area home landscapes are showcased on the self-guided tour. At least 50% of the plants in each garden are California natives, and some of the region’s most creative homeowners and garden designers will be represented.
April: California Poppy Festival, Lancaster (661/723-6075)
The California Poppy Festival kicks off spring in the Antelope Valley with a glorious array of celebrated performers, unrivaled events, and mouth-watering delicacies designed to delight, enchant, and amuse people of all ages.
Desert to high mountain flowers are on display at Town Hall, includes flowers High Mountain, Desert, Oak and Pine Forest, Chaparral, and High Desert.
Although they aren't wildflowers, the earliest blossom frenzy of the season is along the Fresno County Blossom Trail. Off Highway 99 just east of Fresno, a 67-mile-long flowering fantasy showcases the nut and stone fruit orchards of Fresno County. In February, pale pink almond blossoms are some of the first performers in this floral extravaganza. The breathtaking spectacle continues with the blooming of apricots, plums, peaches, nectarines and apples. The final curtain call is April through May when citrus blossoms perfume the air. For more information, contact: Fresno County Office of Tourism, 2220 Tulare Street, 8th Floor, Fresno, CA 93721; 559/262-4271.
More Wildflower Resources: BeachCalifornia.com, Plumas County, California State Parks, National Forests, Wildflower Hotline, California Wildflower Hotsheet, California Academy of Sciences, Nature Alley Wildflower Express, and BLM.
Barbara L. Steinberg is a member of:
Magical Mendocino County
Posted by: | CommentsWe All Need More Mendocino by Barbara L. Steinberg
The getaway begins along scenic byways that provide spectacular distractions. The favorite road less-traveled (especially from Sacramento or Napa) would be the length of Highway 128. Meander up the Napa Valley, past endless vineyards and fields. From Cloverdale to the redwood giants of Navarro, the road twists and turns. Take it slow and enjoy every moment. After all, you’re heading to the place where “back in the day” people went to escape and drop-out. Those same adventurers fashioned the eclectic, art-centric, and natural lifestyle so many of us seek. Mendocino County long-ago embraced their organic roots, and so will you.
Pace yourself. There’s so much to see, eat, and drink! Highway 128 winds through bucolic Anderson Valley. A small but mighty American Viticulture Area (AVA), it reads like a who’s who of wineries: Goldeneye, Husch, Navarro, Roederer, and Scharffenberger; all pretty heady stuff and just a few of the outstanding wineries in the valley.
Next stop along the route is Goldeneye Winery, where, according to Wine Spectator, "Pinot Noir is king!" Just a few miles away in Philo, Goldeneye provides a perfect setting to wine and dine – well, picnic in this case. A yummy wine flight beside vineyard views and you feel yourself melting into the Mendocino pace. The annual Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Festival is hosted at Goldeneye in May. Just one of the county’s many eco-friendly wineries, Mendocino County is known as “America’s greenest wine region!”
Once you reach Highway 1 you will be swept away by rugged headlands, vast expanses of Mendocino Coast, crashing waves, blue skies, and a sense of freedom. Inhale deeply. Some of California’s most remarkable state parks – 22 to be exact – provide extraordinary opportunities to relax and unwind. Ocean and river beaches, redwoods, waterfalls, sand dunes, grasslands, and a historic lighthouse are all part of Mendocino’s magic.
There is no end to the captivating places to slumber and feast without restarting your car. Each offers its own brand of green living, style and grace…past and present. Farming’s past has blessed the Glendeven Inn & Wine Bar[n] in Little River. Original buildings, circa 1867, house plush suites many with ocean views. The stylish Wine Bar[n], yes, in the old barn, features local wines and art. Evening wine-tastings and hors d'oeuvres are a sign of good things to come. Breakfast baskets delivered to your suite include farm-fresh eggs laid by Glendeven’s brood of chickens. Homemade scones and fresh-squeezed orange juice…life on the farm is good! Enjoy a quiet moment overlooking the gardens, the surf, and a pack of docile llamas.
Through Glendeven’s gate, literally, you cross over to the contemporary, 10-room AAA 4-diamond Stevenswood Spa Resort. Surrounded by towering trees, this chic inn and eco-friendly spa endorses the farm-to-table lifestyle. Local chef, Patrick Meany, is at the helm of the Zagat-rated Stevenswood restaurant. Every item is a freshly-made and crafted gastronomic work of art. Imagine…homemade sea salt accompanies local olive oil and house-baked breads. These people are serious about their locavore existence! Oh, and very pet-friendly, too! Four legs or less…inquire within.
Just north, Brewery Gulch Inn personifies the concept of recycling. Built from old-growth redwoods, the trees were eco-salvaged from the Big River. These imposing timbers are the heart and soul of the 10-room inn. An evening reception of local wines, beers, and a variety of inn-made specialties is a gourmand’s delight.
With pounding surf below, the Albion River Inn overlooks the Albion River and Pacific Ocean. Words fail to describe the dramatic cliff-top vistas. However, room with a view defines all 22 cottages and suites. The oceanfront restaurant building dates back to 1919, but the cuisine is all about the here and now. Executive Chef Stephen Smith is known for his award-winning ‘coastal cuisine.’ Like so many other culinary masters, his creations are inspired by Mendocino’s bounty, from land and sea. An intimate corner bar flaunts a single-malt scotch selection compared to none – more than 150. Tastings – a flight of four ½-ounce shots – is a “virtual tour” of Scotland’s finest distilleries.
In Fort Bragg, feed your garden spirit with a visit to the 47-acre Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, the only public garden that sits directly on the Pacific Ocean. The many gardens – perennial, Mediterranean, heather, dahlia, vegetable, rhododendrons – flourish in the ocean air. More than 400 dahlias put on a stunning display July through August. As if the gardens weren’t enough, more than 150 bird species and bluff-top whale watching are reasons to stop by.
There’s so much more to remember. The ebb and flow of the Pacific tides, the gentle cooing of a mourning dove, and a small circle of forget-me-nots…who could forget Mendocino?
For more information, visit: www.GoMendo.com or www.MendocinoFun.com and Slide Show
Mendocino County Crab & Wine Days – January
Mendocino Coast Whale Festivals - March
Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Festival - May
Mendocino Film Festival – June
Annual Mendocino Coast Home & Garden Tour - June
Annual Summer Arts & Craft Fair, Mendocino - July
Mendocino Coast Music Festival - July
Pure Mendocino Celebration, Premier Organic Food & Wine Festival - August
Winesong!, Mendocino Coast Botanical Garden, Fort Bragg – September
Mendocino Wine & Mushroom Festival - November
Barbara L. Steinberg is a member of:
Top Ten Reasons to Visit Fairfield this Spring
Posted by: | CommentsPhotos by Barbara L. Steinberg
Days are getting longer, temperatures are warming up and there is a hint of spring in the air. If you’re suffering from cabin fever, don’t despair, your tonic is only a few miles away in good natured Fairfield!
So, put away your umbrella and overcoat and check out this list of ten popular things to do and see this spring.
2. What’s New Cupcake at Jelly Belly. Cupcake book authors Karen Tack and Alan Richardson will be teaching a hands-on cupcake decorating class at Jelly Belly celebrating their newly released book – What’s New Cupcake. The workshop takes place at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 13 in the Grand Bean Room at the Jelly Belly Center. The authors’ first cupcake book was a national hit and New York Times best seller. Cost: $29.99 per person (children 5 and up). A book signing follows at 3:00 p.m. For reservations, visit www.JellyBelly.com.
3. Scenic Limited Wildflower Excursions at the Western Railway Museum. The Western Railway Museum at Rio Vista Junction will be running special Scenic Limited trains every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday in April at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2 p.m. to view wildflowers, such as poppies, goldfields, brass buttons, vetch, and sheep’s sorrel. The Scenic Limited takes visitors five miles down the old Sacramento Northern Railway, south from Highway 12. During the hour long train ride, passengers will have an opportunity to view impressive displays of native wildflowers that cover the hillsides and fields. Fares: $10 for Adults; $9 for Seniors (65 years and older); and $7 for Children (ages 2 – 14). First Class service is $5 extra. (707) 374-2978. www.WRM.org.
5. Experience Rush Ranch During Their 20th Annual Open House. Enjoy a celebration of nature, art, music, dancing, and traditional crafts at Rush Ranch, a Solano Land Trust property on Grizzly Island, on Saturday, April 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Activities include guided walks to Suisun Marsh, horse drawn wagon rides by Access Adventure, live music, square dancing, weaving and spinning, wood carving, flint knapping, local Native American culture, horseshoeing, blacksmithing, bats, falconry, farm animals, raffle, and art show. New this year is a Ranch Life Children’s Interactive Art Station. Admission is FREE. (707) 422-4491 or (707) 432-0150, ext. 200. www.RushRanch.net or www.SolanoLandTrust.org.
7. Tee it Up at a Fairfield Golf Course. Fairfield is home to the top two 18-hole golf courses in Solano County – Paradise Valley and Rancho Solano. Paradise Valley, praised as being the number one golf course in Solano County and best value in the North Bay area, has a spectacular layout that is enhanced by oak studded fairways and meandering creeks. It’s a favorite for golfers who enjoy a walking round of golf and is playable for golfers of all abilities. Rancho Solano, known for having a beautiful country-club-like setting, has an alluring layout with hilly terrain and undulated greens that add character to the golf course. Scenic lakes, elevated tees and well placed bunkers provide interesting features that contribute to the excitement of playing this course. Several other challenging courses are an easy drive from Fairfield.
8. Go Behind the Scenes on an Anheuser-Busch Beermaster Tour. The Beermaster Tour takes a look at the brewing of Budweiser and includes a visit to the Brew House, Finishing Cellar, Lager Cellar, and packaging facility. The two-hour tour concludes in the Hospitality Room with a product flight demonstration and product sampling. Participants will receive a variety of gifts compliments of Anheuser-Busch. Cost: $25 for adults and $10 for youth ages 13 to 20. Guests 13 to 20 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. For reservations, call (707) 429-7595 or e-mail fairfieldbrewerytour@budweisertours.com.
Take your time exploring what Fairfield and the surrounding area has to offer and stay in one of the city’s 18 hotels that offer affordable and comfortable overnight accommodations. Stay and play, or tour the region – either way, Fairfield is the perfect base camp for a spring escape.
To help plan a visit to Good Natured Fairfield, call the Fairfield Tourism Association at (707) 399-2445 or visit www.Fairfield4Fun.com
Barbara L. Steinberg is a member of:
Desert wildflower tours at Ocotillo Wells
Posted by: | CommentsDaily wildflower exhibits and interpretive staff are available in the district office.
For those that prefer solitude, self guided tours will be available at the Native Plant Garden and the Nature Loop Trail. Laminated signs will be placed throughout these trails to assist all visitors with their wildflower experience.
The popular Wildflower Program guide is returning for its second year of publication. The free, eight-page guide features full color photos of the flowers you’ll mostly likely find in the park. Each photo is accompanied by the flower’s common name, scientific name, how common the flower is, and where it is likely to be found.
After seeing the flowers, visitors can learn about some of the park’s unique qualities by visiting such places as Shell Reef and Gas Domes. The park also has many interpretive geocaches. Camping is also available throughout the park.
Free wildflower trading cards are offered at the various interpretive features as a memento to help bring back memories of your visit. The more you see, the more cards you can collect. Remember that the flowers need to stay in the park so that they can be enjoyed next year, so no picking please.
For three weeks only, wildflowers permitting, Ocotillo Wells SVRA will host a variety of wildflower tours and programs starting on Thursday: • Twice-daily walking tours start at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. lasting two hours. The last wildflower walking tour for the season will be held on March 14. • Twice-weekly off-road driving tours will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9 a.m., lasting about four hours. The last seasonal wildflower driving tour will be on March 11. • Weekend Junior Ranger activities for children, ages 7-12, are available between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., lasting 30-40 minutes for each activity. The last wildflower-related Junior Ranger activity will be held through March 14 • A digital photography workshop will be held March 3, 10, and 13 at 9 a.m. The six-hour workshop will focus on the best way to take great wildflower photos. For detailed information on all programs please call 760-767-5393.
Ocotillo Wells SVRA is located off of Highway 78 in both San Diego and Imperial counties . The park provides 85,000 acres of off-highway motor vehicle recreation in the Southern California desert. It is open to the public 24-hours a day, seven days a week.
For additional information park please contact the Ocotillo Wells SVRA District Office at 760-767-5391 or visit the website at www.ohv.parks.ca.gov.
Post holiday celebrations in Fairfield’s Suisun Valley
Posted by: | CommentsKeep the Holiday Spirits Alive...Literally! by Barbara L. Steinberg
So, it's the 26th of December -- are you feeling those day-after holiday blues? All that pretty wrapping paper is now just so much trash. Maybe you're not part of the post-holiday sales crowd frenzy...enough retail already! But you've got family in town (or not) and you're just looking for that something special to maintain the seasonal glow. Well, that "something" is about 50 miles away in Fairfield's Suisun Valley.
December 26 - 27, 2009 celebrate the 3rd annual Suisun Valley Anniversary Weekend. This wine tasting adventure honors Suisun Valley's 27 years as an official AVA (American Viticultural Area). One of California's lesser-known wine regions, Suisun Valley is small but offers amazing opportunities to enjoy great wines and beautiful scenery...and it's just so close, convenient, and uncrowded. What a fantastic after-the-fact gift to yourself and that special someone (or someones) in your life.
December 26th & 27th
12 pm – 5 pm
$5.00 fee includes Anniversary Weekend Logo Glass, Special Tastings & Small Bites
Purchase tickets at participating Suisun Valley Tasting Rooms during event hours or in advance
Winemakers Dinner
Visit with the Winemakers and taste their Suisun Valley wines
Tuesday, December 29th
Clubhouse at Rancho Solano
Reception 6 pm – 7:30 pm
Dinner 7: 30 pm – 9 pm
$75.00 Advanced Sales Only
Particiating Wineries
Ledgewood Creek Winery
Tenbrink Vineyards
Winterhawk Winery
Wooden Valley Winery
Suisun Valley Wine Cooperative
Blacksmith Cellars
King Andrews Vineyards
Mangels Vineyards
Sunset Cellars
Mapping your way to a great drive
Posted by: | CommentsRoad trips to Drakesbad and Lake Almanor in Plumas County are motoring meditation
by Barbara L. Steinberg©
Traveling by car is by far and away my favorite way to relax. Now I know given the current cost of fuel – rising by the minute – it’s not always the most cost efficient. But I love “motoring meditation” – an expression I coined some years ago. Most recently a friend asked, “What is your favorite way to relax?” I didn’t hesitate when responding, “Driving.”
Driving! I am free to wander down whatever road my heart desires. I have crisscrossed more than 100,000 California miles. Some of the miles are just living life day-to-day, but many more in pursuit of that next great road trip. When each trip begins, the process is always the same: Get out the road atlas!
What a concept! No GPS. No MapQuest. No tripadvisor or Google maps. Just good old-fashioned lines on paper in the form of a California road atlas. Thomas Bros. California Road Atlas & Driving Guide, to be exact.
This Thomas Bros. Map is a dear friend – tried, true, and trustworthy and a long-standing traveling companion. I have two just in case! Both are old and worn. The pages are tattered and some have separated from their spiral binding. My fingerprints and DNA are embedded on every page from years of tracing and retracing routes taken and taken again. So far, not one page has been lost.
Every road traveled is highlighted – yellow, orange, green, blue – sometimes in pen when highlighters can’t be found. Some roads highlighted multiple times. Notes jotted in margins and on front and back covers. Each trip, out comes the atlas. Eyes and hands trace the route or routes – looking for roads not taken and sights not seen. Many new roads have been built since 1993 when Thomas Bros and I became good friends, but I am loyal. This atlas is a journal of so many wonderful adventures it can never be replaced. In fact, preserving it has become essential.
My latest road trip began as every trip does, with Thomas Bros. I was heading for Plumas County and Drakesbad Guest Ranch in Lassen Volcanic National Park. I had been near this region and the gateway to Drakesbad at Chester/Lake Almanor, but never actually at the gates of LVNP or traveling the winding road to Drakesbad. So the atlas was a must. I don’t know about GPS and frankly, don’t care to. And I know MapQuest can’t be trusted. I asked for advice from friends living in Plumas or very familiar with the county. Responses were not forthcoming….what’s up with that?
The folks at Drakesbad recommended the straight-shot up I-5 to Red Bluff and then across on Hwy. 36. This seemed a bit out-of-the-way but I understand the rationale that you can drive like a bat out of Hell up the interstate with average speeds well above the posted 70mph. So good ol’ Thomas came to the rescue. After hemming and hawing over different routes, I decided for I-5/Red Bluff going and Hwy 32/Chico on the return. I had traveled parts of both routes, but there would be new roads and vistas coming and going. It was the right choice!
I was correct about the I-5 approach. It is longer. And the speeds are aggressive. But leaving the Interstate at Red Bluff it isn’t long before the left turn onto Hwy. 36. Wow! The views, the solitude, the meditation – it’s all worth it. And I might have missed this if I’d opted to divert at Orland.
Coming home I chose Hwy. 32 out of Chester. Everyone mentioned that this road is narrow and a bit squirrely…did I want to reconsider? Heck no! That’s just my kind of road. Especially in my faithful Subaru Legacy circa 1994. In this California Travel Insider’s opinion, I hit the Mother Lode driving Hwy. 32. It may very well be my favorite California road. Winding through Deer Creek Canyon, the sun glinted through the lush tree canopy. Late September, the fall colors were just starting to peak through. Talk about meditation!!! There were few other cars going my way and I was left alone in true motoring bliss.
The one regret is not stopping at Deer Creek Falls, but that gives me one more reason to return. It’s always nice to leave some stone unturned. And one more place for Thomas B. and me to visit.
Drive on with the help of:
Enjoy A Winter Weekday Escape With Point Reyes Lodging
Posted by: | CommentsPoint Reyes is the Place to Visit for Winter Wildlife Viewing
An easy drive from the San Francisco Bay Area and other northern California destinations, Point Reyes is an ideal choice to escape the wintertime blues for a weekday getaway. The decision to visit Point Reyes is made even easier with Point Reyes Lodging’s Whales and Wildlife promotion. From Sunday, November 15, 2009 through Wednesday, March 31, 2010, guests can stay two nights midweek (Sunday through Thursday) and get the third night free at Point Reyes Lodging bed and breakfast inns.
To make a Whales & Wildlife reservation, visit www.ptreyes.com and contact the inn or cottage of your choice. Mention Whales & Wildlife when you make your reservation. Holiday periods are excluded and advance reservations are required.
Winter is the optimum time to view wildlife at Point Reyes. Winter wildlife viewing is heralded by the annual migration of gray whales along the coast. The Point Reyes Lighthouse and Chimney Rock offer some of the best vantage points to view the whales from land. Winter also marks the arrival of elephant seals, which are best viewed from the Elephant Seal Overlook near Chimney Rock, migrating waterfowl and shorebirds, plus spawning Coho salmon and steelhead trout up coastal streams. Year round residents include black-tailed deer, more than 400 tule elk, found mostly roaming within the Tule Elk Preserve at Tomales Point, and non-native fallow deer and axis deer.
On the Point Reyes Peninsula, the world’s your oyster, too. The waters surrounding the Point Reyes peninsula are home to some of the most productive oyster growing locations in the country. Oysters are farmed in Tomales Bay and Drakes Bay by three commercial operations that are open to the public:
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Drakes Bay Family Farms Oysters (www.drakesbayfamilyfarms.com)
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Hog Island Oyster Company (www.hogislandoysters.com)
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Tomales Bay Oyster Company (www.tomalesbayoyster.com)In addition to wildlife viewing, the Point Reyes National Seashore is an ideal hiking destination, offering a vast network of trails to choose from, year-round accessibility, beautiful scenery, incredible vistas, and yes, fresh air.While on the Point Reyes Peninsula, check out the West Coast’s newest wetlands – the Giacomini Wetlands. The restoration project is reclaiming 560 acres of land at the head of Tomales Bay and will eventually restore about 12 percent of the coastal wetlands in California. The wetlands is already creating habitat for shorebirds, ducks, egrets, herons and pelicans.
Point Reyes Lodging innkeepers serve as resident wildlife and nature experts and can offer insider tips to enhance a visitor’s experience at Point Reyes.
The Point Reyes Lodging Association is a collection of 16 unique bed and breakfast inns and cottages near Point Reyes National Seashore. To plan your Point Reyes getaway and make a Whales & Wildlife reservation, visit www.ptreyes.com.