Sonoma and Mendocino counties, just north of San Francisco, are a walker's paradise. Pacific views, whale-backed hills of grasses and wildflowers, redwood-fir forests tucked away in secluded valleys - all connected by a superlative network of footpaths and old roads through state parklands. The late October dates, at the end of the Sonoma grape harvest, offers surprising fall foliage and wonderful ripe grape fragrances wafting from the vineyards and wineries. Then, on the Mendocino coastline, where we can enjoy the moonlit beaches and surf, as well as walk a very special beach only reachable at extreme low tide - which we, of course, have calculated into this week's itinerary! Two days and nights at the quiet, historic Beltane Ranch near Glen Ellen, in Sonoma Valley; then two nights at the Coast Guard House B&B on the coast near Point Arena; a final two nights at the Joshua Grindle Inn in Mendocino, also near the ocean.

In Sonoma, we will have a vineyard tour and tasting at Ravenswood, first started by the "zin master", Joel Peterson. Other good winery options include Kenwood and Valley of the Moon. Our Beltane-based walks range from Jack London and Sugarloaf State Parks to nice trails right on the ranch. On Tuesday evening we can take in the Sonoma Plaza farmers market, which is really seeing a slice of Wine Country life. On Wednesday, it's westerly through redwoods and river valleys to the magnificent Pacific coastline! We'll walk among stately redwoods as well as on trails with oceanscapes-a-plenty. During our stay near Point Arena, we include the low-tide classic walk at Schooner Gulch, hitting our stride on Bowling Ball Beach.

On Friday, a bit north to Mendocino - looking like a New England town, with gabled rooflines, picket fences, and gingerbread trimwork. But, here, dramatically poised on a headland overlooking the Pacific. While based at the Joshua Grindle Inn, we can happily sample footpaths in nearby state parks and walk the headlands as well. You can even rent a bike and go up the Big River path for miles!

After Sunday's breakfast, we head inland along the Navarro River to Anderson Valley, with great scenery and a final picnic lunch at a low-key winery. We'll have people back to their cars (parked in Glen Ellen for a few days) by 4pm; Sonoma Plaza/bus stop by 5pm, for post-trip lodging and airport shuttle busses.

We invite you to do a little "California Dreamin'" with us as we show you the best of this coastline and wine country.

$1995 per person based on double occupancy; single supplement $500

Please phone for additional information:1.415.669.1648

WALKS, WATER AND WINE ... ACCOMMODATIONS
Coast Guard House	Beltane Ranch	Joshua Grindle