Travel
The Mendocino Coast is Haute Hippie Heaven
Join me on a journey to the California coast, and discover five great reasons to visit.
Being in the Redwood Trees
And speaking of lists: after I sobered up from my nirvana-inducing meal, I was able to check off another must-have experience in Mendocino: losing myself hiking and biking on the trails and valleys mysteriously hidden between a cathedral of Redwoods.
As I made my way through the magical 2,000 year old forest full of wildflowers, eucalyptus, and California Oaks, I couldn’t help but feel like a little girl again. Like the girl who once believed in Disney movies. Like the girl who felt like the animals –and nature around her– could somehow understand her, and subconsciously send darts of tranquility and love to her soul. I didn’t feel like I needed to be anything — not a wife, not a boss, not a globe trotter; I only needed to be me, Hilary.
But hiking off the beaten path is not the only adventure I had with my enchanted reds. I also learned that you can take the famed 5-Star “Skunk Trains,” restored Reconstruction Era trains that taxi you through wildlife estuaries, ascend for spectacular mountain-top ocean views, and descends into dark, forbidden canyons in and out of the forest. If that weren’t enough, the train also provides wine and beer tasting as well as social activities so you can experience one of the most gorgeous places on earth with a little bit of liquid fun.
Go hiking with a new llama friend!
Oh, and if you’re an animal lover, contact Lodging and Llamas for a llama-accompanied hike and gourmet picnic in amongst the redwoods. The llamas will carry your cargo, and you can walk, hike and adventure alongside them. My one big regret on this trip is that we didn’t get to try this, as the owners were out of town during our stay. It’s conveniently located, only a 10 minute drive from the Inn at Newport Ranch, but definitely book in advance.
But that’s not all!…
Wanda wayne
Well, staying at an inn, beside a cliff, with miles of forest at the back. Sure it looks good when you get there. BUT! Is it that safe? This is a perfect place for a serial murderer to just pop up and terrorize all clients and staff alike.
Meghan Ryan
Wow! It has It all. The sea, Forest, Mountains and great view. I wish I’ve seen this post earlier when I went to California. I badly needed a side track from work back then. oh well, I can always come back.
Judy
Let’s not forget Fort Bragg is home to the World Famous Skunk Train.
Monika Smith
Great! Amazing article and photos are just fantastic . After reading this article i can’t wait to visit this place
Jennifer McSween
Your photos blow me away. Great shots! And I’m trying not to be envious, but oh my god… You’re totally living my dream. I wish I could travel so often just like you.
Sabrina Grattidge
Articles likes this the reason why I keep coming back to your site.
I’ve never read such an honesy and well detailed review like this before on any blog. Thank you!
Sasha Rosswell
Oh my god, this all looks absolutely amazing!I have got to get up there! Have you been to Temecula, CA down south? Just went there this past weekend and did an off-roading Jeep Winery Tour. SO much fun.
Evelyn Sandler
Everything looks great! Your articles represent a reason enough to make me want to visit The Mendocino Coast. I miss California even more now after reading this post.
Christina Norelli
I’ve just emailed this article to my sister. She’s an adventure travel, and it’s just the kind of place she will be crazy about. 🙂
Felicia Stewart
Another one for the bucket list. Thanks to Hilary and the Urbanette Magazine my bucket list keep growing haha! I love it. 🙂