Destination Nature
Sublime Outdoor Experiences Away from the Fray
Crowds, traffic, the rush of a busy city — is it any surprise you need to get away now and again? Consider a weekend in the territory beyond Tahoe, among Highway 1’s coastal beauty, or in the healing waters of Wine Country. Regardless of which one you choose, these destinations will certainly augment our local paradise.
Beyond Tahoe: The Lost Sierra
Tahoe is the traditionally beloved Bay Area getaway, but few venture beyond to the Lost Sierra: a remote, breathtaking setting in Plumas County topping out at 8,000 feet. Here you’ll find crisp air, fragrant pines, and boundless outdoor recreation. Visit the tiny towns of Graeagle and Clio for a throwback to a simpler time.
Where to stay: Nakoma Resort 348 Bear Run, Clio, CA
nakomaresort.com
Nakoma Resort epitomizes the outdoors: nestled amongst thousands of National Forest acres, home to the Lakes Basin Recreation Area, scene of the stunning Sierra Buttes. Here you’ll find proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail as well as the worldclass single-track Downieville trail. Golfers find plenty to admire along the 18-hole Dragon champion golf course — primarily the views found at every tee.
But here the outdoors doesn’t equate to roughing it. Nakoma blends lavish and natural in a seamless manner: 42 luxury rooms, the 12,500-square-foot Altitude recreation center, and a centerpiece clubhouse designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The clubhouse restaurant offers California wine country inspired dishes, plus a wine list perfect for pairing.
What to do: Abundant Outdoors
The Lost Sierra is the gateway to three national forests: Plumas, Juniper Lake, and Tahoe. Whether you’re seeking canyons, meadows, mountain biking, hiking, or any number of other recreational opportunities, you’ll find them here. Also, don’t miss the rich Gold Rush Era history at Plumas- Eureka State Park, which features original mining equipment buildings and a museum.
Don’t miss:The Swimming
If you’re seeking refreshing water lapping against sun-warmed boulders, you’ve found the perfect swimming holes. In Plumas National Forest, follow a narrow, rocky road to Seven Falls, which feed into a natural pool, or drive a half-hour south to Clio, where the North Yuba River offers its own legendary swimming venues.
Coastal Beauty: Half Moon Bay
How can Half Moon Bay be so convenient to San Francisco and yet feel so remote? It’s partly the geography — the Santa Cruz Mountains divide Half Moon from the Peninsula’s more populated regions, so getting there involves windy Highway 1 and Route 92.
There’s something else, though — something special along this slice of the Pacific. Maybe it’s the moody morning fog, the spectacular seafood, or the salty sea breeze. Maybe it’s all three that make Half Moon Bay a singular place to reconnect with nature so close to the city.
Where to stay: The Ritz Carlton, 1 Miramontes Point Road, Half Moon Bay, CA
ritzcarlton.com
The name Ritz-Carlton is synonymous with luxury — but this outpost is unique. Perched atop a bluff with a grand Pacific view, this Ritz may just present you with the best sunset you’ve ever seen. Here you’ll find your home base while traversing coastal paths and exploring secluded coves and beaches.
Then when you’ve worked up the inevitable appetite, try Navio. The hotel’s onsite restaurant features the premier cuisine you’d expect here — scrumptious seafood and California-style farm-to-table fare. Seeking postprandial relaxation? The Ritz spa’s treatments are enhanced with lavender and indigenous wood aromas, another way to relax into nature’s lavish bounty.
What to do: The Beaches
Half Moon Bay State Beach spans four miles along the Pacific, including smaller beaches such as Francis Beach and Venice Beach. It’s rarely crowded even on the nicest summer (by which we mean fall) day. But the hidden nooks and coves make Half Moon Bay so magical.
Don’t miss: Pillar Point Harbor
Fresh Dungeness crab and live fish right off the boat — that’s the ticket. Check out Pillar Point Harbor just north of Half Moon – in addition to the seafood market, walk along the pier and watch the sea lions bobbing up and down in the surf.
Healing Waters: Calistoga
With sun-splashed vineyards and their promise of revelry, Calistoga is your place to rediscover nature. Those seeking peace will find it in the town’s naturally occurring mineral springs, healing waters which stem from the natural volcanic hot springs common here.
Where to stay: Indian Springs, 1712 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA
indianspringscalistoga.com
Indian Springs is perhaps the best place to experience those healing waters. While this laid-back collection of off-white houses, cottages, and bungalows offer shelter, they by no means seek to keep you indoors. Relax al fresco on the porches and patios connected to most rooms or explore the great outdoor room with a fireplace – a lovely spot to unwind in the cool Calistoga night air.
Originally built in 1861 with aspirations of becoming a world class resort, Indian Springs is historic not only for its iconic Mission Revival buildings and the property’s rich history, but for the ancient springs. Today the property’s four thermal geysers pipe in healing waters that feed Indian Springs’ mineral pools and heating system. The Indian Springs Spa offers mud baths combining thermal water with volcanic ash — both ingredients sourced onsite.
What to do: Soak and Relax
Indian Springs’ centerpiece is its Olympic-size mineral pool – built in 1913, it’s one of the state’s largest. Spend your day poolside with a book and a glass of local wine or soak under the stars — it’s open until midnight.
Don’t miss:A Stroll Through the Gardens
No trip to Calistoga would be complete without a tour of Indian Springs’ 17-acre grounds, a serene landscape of well-curated natural space fragrant with jasmine, lavender, rosemary, and roses. The new Garden Retreat Center on the resort can be rented for events and is also used for yoga and meditation classes.
