Occidental
This out-of-the-way solitude is one of Occidental's biggest pluses. It's pretty, it's quiet and it's supremely relaxing. Restaurants and shops? There are literally a handful, but that's not really why people come here. Occidental is mainly a place to get away from it all and enjoy the great outdoors, in particular the many recreational opportunities offered by the nearby Russian River.
Another pretty scenic drive is Coleman Valley Road. If you're heading into Occidental from the south, just take a left at the only stop sign in town. Another winding, two-lane route, this is a quintessential country drive. One minute you're passing cows standing in emerald-green meadows; the next you're rounding a tight S-curve while tunneling through deep shade and dense forest. Oak trees spread their horizontal branches in open fields, and there are panoramic vistas of rolling coastal foothills.
The road tops a ridge, offering a glimpse of the Pacific in the distance, then descends to the coast. Coleman Valley Road ends at SR 1 and Coleman Beach, one of many public access points along the spectacular Sonoma County coastline. Here you can pull off, park and stretch your legs while gazing out at rugged, rocky headlands and steel-blue water before making the return trip back to Occidental.
Many Bay Area residents make regular weekend pilgrimages to Wild Flour Bread, on Bohemian Highway at the intersection with SR 12 (Bodega Highway). The bakery's artisanal breads, scones, sticky buns and other fresh-baked treats are that good. It's open Friday through Monday; phone (707) 874-2938.
Recreational Activities