Now that your kids are away at summer camp, it’s a perfect opportunity for a quick, romantic getaway to the redwoods. A couple of months ago, my husband and I took a weekend trip to Mendocino County for food, wine, California history and the magnificent, ancient coast redwoods at Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve. I’ve been there a few times, but it was a first for my husband. I was super excited to share this wonderful hidden gem with him.
After a 3 1/2-hour drive from our Bay Area suburb through the picturesque back country of Marin and Sonoma counties, we reached the Reserve. We loaded our wine, cheese and fruit into our backpacks and headed into the woods. About 20 minutes up the ridge, we enjoyed refreshments and the fresh air among the redwoods of Grubb grove. We reminded ourselves why we should do this more often with each other. Married for almost six years and together for 11, every new experience still feels like our first date.
Relaxed and rejuvenated, we left the Reserve ready for a romantic evening by the sea. About an hour later we arrived in quaint Mendocino, where we strolled main street to pick up chocolate-covered apples for my parents and a Mendocino T-shirt for my niece. Since we had an hour before dinner, we stopped by the Kelley House Museum to take in the area’s history.
Next, we relaxed in our hotel and got dolled up. I think it’s cute that we still get dressed up for each other. Feels like we are 21 again (minus the acne and tortured soul). The dinner, the view and the company were phenomenal. It’s amazing what a tranquil, intimate setting can do for your relationship. I highly recommend it.
If you have a romantic getaway that you want to share, please let me know!
PS: The chocolate-covered apples never made it home. Sorry mom and dad!
Travel Tip: If you travel early in the week, some places, like restaurants, offer discounts.
8 Responses to “Romantic Getaways in the Redwood Forest”
Guy Rogers
Not a bad drive from Sacramento either. Sounds lovely. We’ll be making this trip soon!
Cindy & Ralph Vitales
Wish we were there. Sounds like a priceless memory. Please let us know when you plan another romantic getaway to the Redwoods. We would love to experience the beauty of nature.
Sharlene
What a great tip! I just hope this hidden gem doesn’t become too well known.
Jennifer
What a charming story! I never would have thought about making the Redwoods a romantic getaway. But now it’s on my to-do list, as are those chocolate covered apples. YUM!
Hilary
Sounds like fun!
Jacqueline
What a great idea! I love it…thanks for the suggestion and recs! Hope to do this soon! Any other fun things to do in the Redwoods? Taking out of towners there soon
Andy
Wow! Sounds like a great trip. I’m totally inspired.
Angie
I love your pictures. I live in SF and my husband and I have been exploring. We’re planning a hike to Berry Creek Falls in Big Basin Redwoods. I’ll be reading your blog on a regular basis now.