Mill Valley: A Charming Retreat

Just a handful of miles away from San Francisco, Mill Valley is a charmingly beautiful retreat; perfect for any kind of nature lover, it’s the place to go for a hiking vacation, to admire nature’s work or to enjoy cultural events.

The town of Mill Valley is known for its European flair and lively cultural activities (which happen to attract a host of famous names). With well-known events such as Mill Valley Film Festival, The Mountain Play and the Marin Mountain Bike, Mill Valley won’t disappoint visitors who are looking for an unforgettable California experience. It’s the ideal getaway for both families and couples looking for a romantic retreat.

The typography in Mill Valley is nothing short of spectacular. One of my favorite things to do while in Mill Valley is drive the narrow and winding cliffside residential streets and look at the houses. Some are tucked away in redwood-surrounded valleys, while others, perched on the cliffside amongst the towering redwoods, are quite the vertigo-inducing sight. Yes, that’s right; here, houses are built right into the sides of cliffs. 50-foot drops under the living rooms of these homes is considered normal.

However, what foreigners and locals mostly love about this charming slice of California is its surroundings. Let’s have a look at the charming environment in which Mill Valley is graciously located, and how you could enjoy it at its best.

First, let’s explore some of Mill Valley’s natural wonders:

Mount Tamalpais

Mill Valley happens to have its grounds right at the feet of Mount Tamalpais, which is also one of the favorite destinations of visitors. Perfect location for hikers or simply for nature lovers, Mount Tamalpais is home of the State Park of the same name, a glorious park with a view on the Ocean and the San Francisco skyline. Trails are in abundance and campers are welcome in dedicated spots, such as Pantoll, Steep Ravine and Alice Eastwood Campgrounds.

Tennessee Valley Trail

Walkers and hikers can easily enjoy this more gentle trail in the valley of Mount Tamalpais. Not longer than two miles, this trail is recommended for families with small children or walkers not easily turned into hikers. The beautiful sight of the Pacific Ocean will make your visit even more special, with chances of a swim included.

The Muir Woods

Unmissable for both visitors in Mill Valley and San Francisco which would like to stay away from the city for a day, Muir Woods are one of those spots which won’t be easily forgotten once seen. These woods seem to inspire an almost religious feeling, especially thanks to their main attraction: the incredible amount of coastal redwoods, many up to 800 years old, that fascinate travelers from all over the world. It’s easy to lose a day to the woods, walking through the forest paths, gazing at the surroundings in wonder.

Many seasonal events are hosted in Mill Valley – from a winter walk under the moon to several Earth Day activities.

Richardson Bay

Some prefer the sea, and for those, this is a unique bay not to be missed. Richardson Bay is famous for two things in particular: its houseboats and the bird sanctuary.

Many species of mammals and other animals are protected here, as the bay provides a rich habitat for several endangered species. Several programs are available for adults and kids, from summer camps to educational workshops, and walks are possible especially along the shores.

Angel Island

If you have time for a ferry trip, we highly recommend that you spend a day in Angel Island. A state park itself, Angel Island is the biggest island of the San Francisco Bay, and offers breathtaking views on Mount Tamalpais of the San Francisco skyline. As most landmarks around here, also this location is a great resource for hikers and walkers, with its beautiful trails and campsites.

Guided tours, picnics, bike rentals and such are also a great way to enjoy a peaceful day into the nature offered by this hidden gem. Historical sites with guided tours can teach you about an interesting slice of American history, from its early settlers Coast Miwok to its use as an Immigration Station. There is surely much to see, learn and enjoy.

But it’s not just nature that people flock to Mill Valley for. Here are several other reasons to visit:

Mill Valley Dining

Taking a break from the green surroundings won’t leave you longing for an experience. Mill Valley is home to an array of unique dining options.

Mill Valley Beerworks is a charming brewery and restaurant which will delight beer lovers. Offering dinner, brunch and almost countless unique kinds of beer, this brewery will be a well deserved break for tired feet.

Hands-down the most romantic restaurant in Mill Valley is El Paseo. Surrounding by a maze of stone and reclaimed wood hallways leading to multiple small, cozy rooms, this restaurant is a great place to have a luxurious and romantic candlelit dinner.

If you’re looking for something a bit more casual, Tony Tutto Pizza has a great outdoor patio, organic, gluten-free and vegan options, and is a great place to begin or end an afternoon.

Mill Valley Film Festival

The Mill Valley Film Festival is an internationally-recognised event which attracts filmmakers and film lovers from many corners of the country. A non-competitive event, the Festival is highly enjoyed by families as well as movie lovers. Many of the partakers are international and emerging filmmakers, in addition to the many famous names you can find on the program.

Mill Valley Wine Country

When it comes to wine, California never disappoints. Also here in Mill Valley, wine lovers and curious visitors are welcome to enjoy the views and the delights that wine regions and wineries offer. In spite of Napa and Sonoma Valley being just a few miles away, real connoisseurs shouldn’t skip the charming local vineyards and wine events.

One of them is the Mill Valley Wine & Gourmet Celebration, a summer festival which combines wine and delicacies tastings; different wine producers from Europe join locals and tourists to mingle on this very special day.

The great affection for wine in the region is seeable not just in summer, but in the local activities as well. Wine bars and retail outlets are nowadays world-renowned, and wineries all around offer wine tasting tours most of the year.

Wondering where to stay?

Mill Valley Cottage

It happens from time to time that the best thing to do while in the nature is just relaxing. If you prefer spending your afternoons while quietly enjoying being surrounded by a beautiful environment, what you can do in Mill Valley has no equals.

Our favorite location for retreats in the nature in this area is surely Mill Valley Cottage. As described by its lovely owners, Philip and Dale Going, this magical cottage is an “elegant, comfortable home away from home filled with antiques, books, art and a grand piano.” And there is much, much more. Located relatively close to San Francisco, this cozy yet stylish home sits at the foot of Mt. Tamalpais, making it a great location to enjoy all the activities previously described.

Perfect for a romantic getaway or a family weekend due to its charm and size (5 people can comfortably sleep in there), this house has been designed and decorated by the two owners, which also happen to be artists. Fully furnished with great luxuries such as a charming kitchen full of antique china, a dining room, two bathrooms, a media room and a relaxing garden with a bird fountain, Mill Valley cottage is our first choice for a charming retreat.