Driving the Pacific Coast Highway…and Mendocino

Have you driven the PCH?  You should.  If you are on the fence, just trust me, you should.

As you may know, my little family and I went on a whirlwind tour of the United States in June – 3 weeks in a packed to the gills Nissan Titan, more National Parks than you can shake a stick at, beaches, deserts, mountain ranges, waterfalls, and even lava fields.  But one of the most incredible things we did on the trip was traveling the Pacific Coast Highway.

I’ve always wanted to make the drive, as I’ve heard it’s just one of those things everyone should experience.

It is.

Imagine twists and turns of roads that cling to the land high above the coast, with sweeping (terrifying at times) views, panoramas that stretch for miles upon miles.  There are stops at every vantage point, photo ops around every bend, lighthouses, giant redwoods, sea lions…you name it, you will see it.

Mendocino

We were fortunate enough to be invited to stay at the incredible Brewery Gulch Inn in Mendocino, California, which was a town we hoped to land in along our trek.  Little did we know what a gem this small hotel would be!  From the moment we arrived, we were made to feel like true guests, and everyone staying seemed to feel like we were in some secret club the rest of the world knew nothing about!

We were greeted in the evening by a full meal – though they dub it a wine tasting, it included fabulous treats, including salads, meats, and dessert.  Yes, of course there was wine and beer available, all locally sourced.  No detail was overlooked, and we enjoyed out meal with a spectacular view from the glassed in dining area adjacent to the lobby.

Sea Glass Beach

After dinner, we drove north to Fort Bragg, where Sea Glass Beach is located.  This was one of the stops I most looked forward to, as I adore sea glass.  We walked the beach and twisted through the boulders there, the boys climbed to precarious heights, and I scouted for treasures.  Eventually we pocketed a few glass treasures to carry home as mementos, and made our way back to the Inn.

The Brewery Gulch Inn

Our room, The Heron, was wonderful, with a great balcony, sitting area by the fireplace, a large, luxurious bed, and even a roll away bed in the corner made up for Seven.  The furnishings were tasteful and well done, and the amenities were top notch.  No wonder the Inn was voted so highly by Travel & Leisure! (they were ranked #20 in the world. Huge!)

After a great night’s sleep, we went downstairs to eat the included breakfast.  Ordering off the menu was a treat, and the meal itself was very impressive!  If anyone left hungry, it was their own fault, but I saw nothing but happy campers!

If you are ever lucky enough to find yourself on the PCH, do stop in at the Brewery Gulch Inn.  I know I will – we thoroughly enjoyed it and can’t wait to return.

Hope you’ve enjoyed all of these pictures from my trip – I couldn’t NOT include them!

Brewery Gulch Inn

9401 North Highway One,

Mendocino, CA, 95460, USA

800-578-4454

guestservices@brewerygulchinn.com

Note: A special thanks to the folks at Brewery Gulch Inn for having us as your guests. We were flattered and enjoyed every single minute!  All thoughts and opinions are my own, as always.