Visit Mendo (pt 3 of 3)

Mendocino County is an accessible weekend trip from anywhere:  2 hours’ drive north from San Francisco, 2 hours’ drive west from Sacramento, and a fantastic excuse for a rest stop during lengthier travels on Highways 1 or 101. There are strikingly distinct climates, both natural and cultural, held within the county’s nearly 4,000 square miles–and each one is bound to hold something that will fascinate or delight.

This is the final post of 3, and it serves as a small sampling of the activities one can find in Mendocino’s most well-known pockets of activity and bustle. Wherever you ultimately set your sails, we encourage you to make an appointment to visit Alta Orsa’s mountainside estate during your adventures! We consider ourselves a great gateway into Mendocino County, and we would love to share a part of the day with you.

ANDERSON VALLEY

• STAY: The Apple Farm

  • Address 18501 Greenwood Rd, Philo, CA 95466 (website)

  • Hours Daily reservations available

  • Description This working farm encourages guests to lean into the lifestyle, without phones or television in the cabins themselves–though wifi is available in common areas. The Apple Farm is also known to host “Stay & Cook” experiences, during which time guests receive instruction on how to craft wholesome meals. Breakfast, however,  is always included in the stay, and features the fruits of the family’s labors.

  • Pro-tip Can’t stay the night? You can still get a taste of the land by swinging by their Farm Stand.

• SIP: Disco Ranch

  • Address 14025 CA-128, Boonville, CA 95415 (website)

  • Hours Thurs-Sunday, 11am-6pm || Monday, 11am-3pm

  • Description Named for the legendary, disco ball decked, living room wine-tastings that proprietor used to host in another chapter, this shop features local quaff and Old World explorations alike. You know you can trust the staple shop for Mendocino winemakers and other folks in the industry!

  • Pro-tip Disco Ranch’s sliders, paired with potato chips and a glass of Cava, is the perfect small bite to fit in before hitting your next Anderson Valley tasting appointment.

• SNACK: The Bewildered Pig

  • Address: 14111 CA-128, Boonville, CA 95415

  • Hours Mon-Sunday 11am - 3pm

  • Description: If you find yourself on Highway 128 winding through Anderson Valley, Mosswood Market in downtown Boonville is worth slowing down for. A beloved fixture in the heart of Boonville, it draws locals and visitors alike with strong espresso drinks and some of the best baked goods you'll find in Mendocino County. Owner Pilar Echeverría has built something genuinely rare: a place where different communities of Anderson Valley naturally come together over good food and unhurried conversation. Whether you're fueling up before a day of wine tasting or just need a reason to get off the road, Mosswood delivers.

  • Pro-tip: The empanadas are legendary and have a habit of selling out early, so plan accordingly.

Need more help planning your trip? Consider checking out local resources (such as Visit Mendocino or the local winegrowers association) to fill out your itinerary.