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Photo Courtesy of @lesya_pototskayaaa
Mendocino County is full of hidden gems, where natural beauty meets quirky charm. Ride through redwood forests on a vintage train, soak in quiet hillside springs, or wander through the otherworldly Pygmy Forest. Whether you’re seeking art, solitude, or small-town character, Mendocino County invites you to slow down and discover its soulful side.
From the plush green velvet chairs that invite you to sink in and relax, to the artfully crafted cocktails and gourmet bites served on board, this luxurious experience offered on the Skunk Train’s Presidential Class Car through the redwoods offers an unforgettable journey. Set along the serene Pudding Creek, this elevated ride blends natural beauty with refined comfort, creating a one-of-a-kind hidden gem escape that captures the magic of Northern California in motion.
Though small and compact, the stunted trees of the Pygmy Forest stand as a powerful testament to resilience. Visitors can stroll along an elevated walkway that winds through this unique woodland, where many trees barely reach 10 feet in height. Nestled at the far end of Van Damme State Park, just south of Mendocino, this hidden gem is sure to impress any nature lover’s must-see list.
Where else can you enjoy a craft sake tasting right in the middle of wine country? This fresh new hidden gem in Anderson Valley’s famed Boonville takes a delightful twist on tradition. Pull up a seat at SOBO Sushi and savor sake by the glass, carafe, or build your own flight from a curated menu highlighting small, family-run sake producers—perfectly paired with oysters or caviar for an elevated tasting experience.
On a rolling grassy knoll high above scenic Highway 1, the new Mendocino Bungalow offers sweeping ocean views. It’s an ideal escape for a romantic reset, surrounded by nature’s quiet beauty. This serene retreat also taps into the growing trend of silent travel, inviting guests to unwind and disconnect.
Take just eight steps along the weathered boardwalk and you might miss it. At the edge of the Mendocino Headlands where the Pacific pounds the cliffs, Dick’s Place serves up local color with a stiff Bloody Mary and walls full of vintage memorabilia. Grab a wooden bar stool – drinks are strong, prices are low, and the stories run deep.
Catching a new kind of high in Mendocino just got easier with the arrival of Mendocino Tree House, a cozy two-bedroom retreat nestled among towering, centuries-old redwoods just beyond the village. Here, guests are embraced by nature while enjoying a seamless blend of contemporary comforts and breathtaking surroundings. It’s a lofty escape that brings the forest to your doorstep.
Wandering through the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas feels like stepping into another world – one filled with color, calm, and quiet wonder. Peacocks roam freely among pagodas adding to the sense of peaceful purpose. Inside the grand main hall, thousands of golden Buddha statues shimmer in the soft light, creating a truly magical and awe-inspiring space. The rhythmic chants of monks echo through the air, making the whole experience feel both grounding and otherworldly. It’s an enchanting, unexpected gem that leaves a lasting impression.
Nestled in the quaint artist haven of Gualala, Stone Ranch distinguishes itself with both its expansive grounds and striking collection. Spanning 30 acres, the site showcases 35 powerful stone installations – from a gravity-defying floating boulder wall to monumental works crafted by master stonemasons from across the globe.
For a true taste of old Mendocino County, Orr Hot Springs is the perfect retreat. Tucked deep in the backcountry near Montgomery Woods State Park, this 27-acre hideaway offers an authentic, off-the-grid experience. Visitors can soak in private mineral baths, relax in one of two communal tubs or head up to the rooftop stargazing tubs for a soak under the night sky. For a refreshing contrast, the spring-fed cold plunge is built into a rocky hillside -stays at a brisk delivering the relaxed vacation.
Anderson Valley isn’t just for wine lovers—it’s a haven for art seekers too. Tucked off Highway 128 in the tiny town of Navarro, artist Rebecca Johnson’s barn-style gallery offers a striking contrast to the surrounding vineyards. Known for her bold, nature-inspired sculptures and richly textured oil paintings, Johnson’s work fills the rustic space with over 30 pieces that reflect both the rugged landscape and her deep connection to it.
If you’re drawn to equestrian history, Willits is the place to connect with the legend of Seabiscuit. This famous racehorse, who became a symbol of hope during the Great Depression, once called Ridgewood Ranch home. Today, visitors can tour the original barn, explore memorabilia and exhibits, or join guided hikes of the historic grounds on select days. For a unique stay, consider booking the cozy carriage house right on the property.
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