Despite the threats of another "atmospheric river" along the California Coast, we decided to spend our anniversary weekend exploring a few hidden gems: Sensorio in Paso Robles, the quaint little towns of Cambria & Harmony, the annual peak of activity at the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, and spectular hiking at the Hearst San Simeon State Park.
We were able to secure a mobile front porch with a breathtaking view...
We had a lovely anniverary dinner at Della's https://www.dellaspasorobles.com/ before heading over to wander through the immersive, outdoor exhibit: Light at Sensorio by Bruce Munro. https://sensoriopaso.com/ The skies were clear, and dramatic!
The next morning, we got up early to beat the rain, and went to catch a glimpse of the activites at the Piedra Blancas Rookery! In the two months of January and February every year, the male Elephant Seals arrive and fight for dominance, the females arrive and give birth, they feed and then wean their pups, afterwhich they mate again, and swim away pregnant, only to return the following year to repeat the cycle! https://elephantseal.org/
The so-called HAREM MASTER!
Our next stop was the charming little "town" of Harmony, CA (pop. 18). Who doesn't want to live in Harmony, eh? This exclusive exit off of Highway 1 has a winery, a coffee shop, a general store, a creamery, a glass works, a pottery studio, an art gallery, and a wedding chaple (naturally).
Can you say, "Photo Op"?
That evening we had a very nice meal at one of the many restaurants in Cambria. https://www.robinsrestaurant.com/ This was following the obligatory drive up to Nitt Witt Ridge, a California Registered Historical Landmark. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitt_Witt_Ridge
With the threat of severe storms the following afternoon, we decided to get up early, once again, to hike the otherworldy San Simeon Bay Trail. Given the time of year, and the weather, we lucked into a virtually private hike (we only saw one other couple on the trail for the entire 4+ miles). The rains from the previous few days had created a fairly significant barrier to crossing the beach to the trail head. In fact, it even attracted a lone, male Elephant Seal who seemed to be the guardian of the trail.
We decided to ford the stream and continue on our journey. We are so glad that we did. The reward for wet feet, and staring down the 4000 lb. protector of the trail, was that we had the trail all to ourselves!
For those of you that are familiar, this was like an exclusive tour through an Andy Goldsworthy exhibit! https://hainesgallery.com/andy-goldsworthy-ephemeral We highly recomend explore this very special part of the California Central Coast!
Great pictures, Bill...and info to inspire our own adventures!😊 Thanks!
Wow. Why haven't I been following you? Did you visit with Nanci? She's right on Nitt Witt Ridge. Great pictures!