Mendocino in May

by Seasonal Wisdom on May 8, 2009

A soft wind is blowing as we walk across the wildflower-filled bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. What could be more marvelous than a May day spent in Mendocino, California? This little coastal village, about 165 miles north of San Francisco, has charmed the hearts of travelers since the 19th century.

Spectacular scenery. Charming old houses. And private little gardens. These are just some of the jewels of Mendocino Village and surrounding area. Not to mention, plenty of fine restaurants, accommodations, art galleries and shops that can almost compete with the million dollar views.

Believe it or not, the popular mystery television series “Murder She Wrote” was filmed in scenic Mendocino. Not Maine, as you would imagine.

Squint your eyes, and you can see how this historic village in California could be confused with 19th century New England. A perfect example is the Maccallum House Inn above. The original mansion was built in 1882 by William H. Kelley as a wedding gift to his daughter, Daisy MacCallum.

I’ve had the good fortune to visit Mendocino several times in May, and highly recommend it. The crowds are smaller. The weather is perfect. And the gardens are a real treat. Just look at this charming garden at Maccallum House’s cottage (above).

Roses, lavender and wallflowers (Erysimum cheiri) welcome visitors to Agate Cove Inn‘s 19th century farmhouse, where a full breakfast awaits guests.

A little outside of town, the inn features 100-year-old Cypress trees, large gardens and charming cabins for rent. Several rooms have two-person tubs and excellent ocean-front views.

In fact, this inn may just have one of the best views in Mendocino.

Who wouldn’t enjoy a nice glass of chilled wine at sunset in this idyllic spot?

Along one of the streets in Mendocino Village, lies this cheerful spring garden filled with tulips, borage, sweet alyssum, daisies and more.

This garden space shows that small can certainly be spectacular.

And what trip to California would be complete without succulents combined in colorful and unusual patterns?

Not surprisingly, the drought-tolerant plants thrive in this Mediterranean climate.

A few days spent in Mendocino and you’ll be thriving too, no doubt.

Get more travel tips from:

GoMendo.com
Mendocino Guide to Mendocino Village

{ 8 comments }

Kim and Victoria May 8, 2009 at 9:55 pm

That is gorgeous! I’ve never been there, but I can imagine.
Have a great time!

Seasonal Wisdom May 8, 2009 at 10:37 pm

Kim and Victoria:
It really is a bit of paradise, especially for gardeners. Try to get out there when you can. Thanks for stopping by…

Tatyana May 9, 2009 at 12:17 pm

Want be there right now! Those little gardens are so lovely! Thank you Teresa!

Seasonal Wisdom May 9, 2009 at 3:32 pm

Hi Tatyana: Thanks for your comments. Mendocino really is a lovely place…

Kathryn/plantwhateverbringsyoujoy.com May 11, 2009 at 8:54 pm

Hi, Teresa, Oh, you’ve beautifully captured one of my favorite places on Earth! I’ve been so blessed to have lived here for years and to have enjoyed the beauty you have displayed here. Thank you for sharing through your lens!

Seasonal Wisdom May 11, 2009 at 9:00 pm

Kathryn: Thanks for stopping by. You are indeed blessed to live in such a beautiful place… I’m such a fan of your blog.

Susie May 14, 2009 at 11:08 pm

Wow, I’d love to visit, I hear it is so quaint. So much of the California coastline has similar landscapes. Thanks for sharing

Seasonal Wisdom May 15, 2009 at 12:07 am

Hi Susie: Much obliged for your nice comments. By the way, I used to live in Ventura! What a gardener’s paradise, and your water-saving gardening tips on your blog are very timely.

Hope you’ll come again.

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