While in Monterey, we stayed at Martine Inn, the same lovely Bed and Breakfast that we had stayed in last year. The morning breakfast is served in a room with a beautiful view overlooking the Bay. We drove to Carmel and hiked at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. We enjoyed the early morning walking through coastal scrub and woods to cliffs with dramatic and spectacular ocean views. Our favorite trail was Cypress Grove. I have a true love for trees so this place made me happy. I felt so calm and at peace there.
From there we drove south toward Big Sur. This is where the Santa Lucia Mountains rise abruptly from the Pacific Ocean. The views are truly breathtaking as the cliffs hug the coastline. While at Big Sur, we went to Nepenthe . It’s a restaurant located 800 feet above the ocean. This place is SO cool. Once a home, the owners imagined an open-air pavilion with good food and wine and dancing under the stars. It became a place where people from up and down the coast come and forget their cares. In Greek that’s exactly what it means, “isle of no care”. It’s famous for it's unique architecture, amazing views, and legendary guests. I adore the earthy feel of this place.
After a carefree lunch we drove to another State Park. There, we hiked a bit to see McWay Falls. It’s an 80 foot waterfall that is one of only two in the region that are close enough to the ocean to be referred to as "tidefalls". It empties directly into the ocean. The beach and scenic cove can not be be accessed by land, only by boat. It was lovely.
After our time near Monterey Bay, we drove back up the coast North of San Francisco. We drove through many coastal towns that were so charming. Again, the coastal views were AMAZING!
We drove through the Sonoma Coast to Timber Cove Inn. This place is a true hidden gem. Our drive felt solitary. There is nothing around this place, really nothing to do. It had a lodge type feel, with wooden beams and fireplaces, galore. We spent one night there, enjoying the sunset by the fit pit after dinner and live music just inside. The next morning the ocean view was picturesque. Again, so peaceful and calm. I didn’t want to leave.
Next it was off to Napa Valley. One of our favorite places to visit. We have visited this area year after year. Plus, it is always nice to feel the change in climate. It is so much warmer inland. Before we reached wine country, we stopped at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. We had seen Redwoods before and wanted to make a quick stop while passing by. The Redwoods are so amazing to see in person. I felt such a sense of peace when walking through the woods. It’s so quiet, with just a peep of sunlight peeking in through the trees.
This year our trip to Napa Valley was a little different. Previously, our visits there had been all about the wine. This time around it was more about relaxation. We really didn’t even go to that many wineries. We have seen several vineyards, tasted many wines and even taken guided tours. So, we decided to soak up some time at the Spa. I enjoyed a mud bath with facial mask, aromatic mineral whirlpool bath, steam room, blanket wrap and massage. It was VERY relaxing. We soaked up some time by the pool and ate some spectacular food. We stayed at Villagio Inn & Spa in Yountville. Chris found an incredible deal so we were so very lucky to being staying in such luxury. Also, Yountville boasts more Michelin stars per capita than any place on Earth. I’ll never forget our time there. We were surprised by our early morning send off - hot air balloons!
It’s too bad vacations must come to an end. I love spending that time with my husband, just the two of us. I cherish the memories we make when we travel. California, I miss you so…
Stunning photos! :)
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