The southern gateway to Mendocino County, Hopland is the perfect place to take a break and see some sights. First stop is to explore The Solar Living Institute’s 12 acres of grounds that contain kids’ play areas, ponds, educational information, native plantings and Real Goods, which is the largest straw bale store in the U.S. Mendocino County produces great olive oil and sparkling wine and you can get a taste of both at Olivino/Terra Sávia while you browse the displays of eclectic art and furniture. Check out the bocce ball courts at Brutocao Cellars, located in what used to be Hopland’s high school. The Bluebird Café is known for its wide selection of unusual burgers and great pies, but the star of the show is the huge moose head that overlooks diners! Sip and Savor at Sip and its sister restaurant, The Golden Pig, while across the road relax by the fountain and enjoy a wood-fired pizza at Stockfarm. Back on the road again, head north and fantasize about estate living on the 180-acre Jeriko Estate winery or visit the first wine caves in the county at Saracina Ranch. If it’s a view you’re craving, there’s no better place to stop than the terrace at RIVINO with its breathtaking vista of the Ukiah valley.