A Sea of Cypress Trees

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My very dear friend Richard told me about a grove of Cypress trees that sits on the cliffs in Moss Beach, just north of Halfmoon Bay in Northern California. So today I went in search of it. It’s a very peaceful, beautiful place to visit so I wanted to show you what it looks like and tell you how to get there.

First the pics…

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You’ll also see some nice views of the ocean while walking under the shade of the trees.

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To get there put the address to the Moss Landing Distillery in your GPS system. Park there (the last photo was one I took from the parking lot) then walk up past the restaurant and around to your left until you see the sign to the park. Walk straight past the sign and soon you’ll see the trees. Here’s the address for the restaurant and the location to the entry of the park. I hope you’ll check it out!

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Stagecoach Road

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If you visit the town of Pescadero, which is located off highway 1 in Northern California, you won’t be disappointed. I’ve blogged on it a few times so I thought I’d tell you about a scenic drive that will take you back to highway 1 if you’re heading north.

If you drive through town and keep going straight you’ll drive past the local cemetery which will be on your right. Just follow that road and enjoy some beautiful scenery. You’ll see cows, dodge deer, and wind around some gorgeous hills.

When the road hits a T you’ll see a country store on front of you. Stop in and get a beverage and stroll the isles. they have a lot of interesting things including a huge hat selection. I totally forgot to note the name so I will have to add that later. Then head west for about a mile and you’ll see highway 1 again. Here’s another pic from my drive today.

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Best Kept Secret…Mexican Food to Drive For

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I grew up in New Mexico so really appreciate good Mexican food. A few years ago I was in the quaint town of Pascadero and stopped for gas. While waiting for my tank to fill, I watched a ton of people enter and exit with bags of food. I went inside and found a little Mexican Restaurant. To this day it is one of my favorites. Today I got two tacos, (carnitas is the best in my opinion) rice and beans. I ate half and put the rest in an ice chest I always have when I do road trips. It was divine. I took a photo of the restaurant’s card so you have the information. (It’s a name that is way too long)

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I’ve blogged on Pascadero before so will just add a last pic taken outside the local grocery store where it always smells like fresh baked bread. Yum!

Pigeon Point Lighthouse

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It’s a stunning day and the coast is warm and sunny. I pulled over and walked along the trails by the Pigeon Point Lighthouse before heading to my favorite Mexican restaurant in Pascadero, our next stop!

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Capay Almond Festival and Blossom Trail Scenic Tour

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Now this looks like a fun event. I’ve never been but I’m considering it for this year.  The Capay Valley Almond Festival is a self-guided, 21-mile route along Highway 16, passing through the Yolo County  farm communities of Rumsey, Guinda, Brooks, Capay and Esparto. Each town offers blossoming trees, almond treats, harvesting demonstrations,  barbecues, a car show, a diaper derby (not really sure what that it but it could be fun) and other down-home events. For those of you wine lovers, there will be wine tasting, live music and dancing.

The event started in 1915 and is a Northern California tradition. The Blossom Trail Scenic Tour should be quite amazing as you’ll have the opportunity to drive along a highway lined with almond blossoms. Click here to download the Blossom trail map: http://www.espartoregionalchamber.com/uploads/BlossomTrail%20map%202013.2.pdf

Start at either end of  the valley with a homemade breakfast and have fun!

Key information: Feb. 24. Free. See website for schedule.  (530) 787-3242, www.capayvalleyalmondfestival.com.