San Francisco - October 02, 2007

On the Mendo

Mendocino Roadtrip

Slow down. You move too fast. Make the morning last with an overnight escape to Mendocino.

Take Rural Route 128 through Anderson Valley. Ignore speeding lumber trucks taking hairpin curves at 70 miles an hour. Make a pit stop at The Philo Apple Farm Farm Stand (18501 Greenwood Road, Philo; 707-895-2333) for heirloom fruit, jam, and cider. Bring cash and integrity: Payment is on the honor system.

As you continue north, roll down the windows and take a big whiff of timber before disappearing into the soupy fog (pack layers).

Off Highway 1 sits The Heritage House (5200 North Highway 1, Little River; 707-937-5888). With hypnotic coastal views and rustic charm, the recently renovated 37-acre estate is tryst-worthy. Its claim to fame: Same Time, Next Year, the 1978 affair flick that was filmed on the premises.

Nosh on burgers or fish and chips in front of the roaring fireplace at the Old Timer’s bar. Or indulge in a tasting menu featuring herbs and produce from the lush on-premise gardens. Breakfast is included, so don’t skip out on the house-made granola and mini pains au chocolat.

Look out for Asian-inspired treatments at the new Espa facility, opening sometime next year. In the meanwhile, book a deep-tissue massage with Kat before heading home.

You’ll be feeling groovy.