Boonville

Hidden deep in the Mendocino forest, Boonville has developed a long-lasting quirkiness inspired by its isolation. With the remnants of the local tongue called Boontling floating through the trees, and a forward thinking righteousness that makes this region bond against the "Man" (Mendocino forest inhabitants have a long love affair with the cannabis plant — local radio announcers are rumored to announce helicopter flyovers — as well as their infamous fight against Genetically Modified Crops), Boonville may be one of California's most interesting towns. However, it isn't all hairy armpits and protest marches. Rather, this fog-drenched redwood ...

Hidden deep in the Mendocino forest, Boonville has developed a long-lasting quirkiness inspired by its isolation. With the remnants of the local tongue called Boontling floating through the trees, and a forward thinking righteousness that makes this region bond against the "Man" (Mendocino forest inhabitants have a long love affair with the cannabis plant — local radio announcers are rumored to announce helicopter flyovers — as well as their infamous fight against Genetically Modified Crops), Boonville may be one of California's most interesting towns. However, it isn't all hairy armpits and protest marches. Rather, this fog-drenched redwood forest is home to surprisingly sophisticated farm fresh eateries, a legendary brewery, and some of the nation's premier wineries (Ever heard of Cristal?). Throw into the mix redwood-shrouded trails that stretch for miles, a short drive to the rugged Mendocino coast, and enlightened vacation rental cottages on working farms, and Boonville starts to induce your reveries to include the mountains as well as the sought-after Mendocino seaside.

About the Expert

Michele Bigley is the author of Northern California: An Explorer's Guide and Great Destinations Kauai from Countryman Press.