Many of you might have gone to Mendecino. A number of people call it the Cape Cod of California. And it is in many ways. Full of interesting shops and antique stores and like Cape Cod, it's also, well, rather crowded. I feel the best way to enjoy a town like Mendecino is to enjoy it from a bit of a distance, like from Albion.
Albion is a quiet little town about fifteen minutes away from Mendecino--decent enough to drive there and back for dinner. But Albion boasts its own dear little beach and more importantly, Albion is where Fensalden Inn is located. The Fensalden Inn, run by a spry older couple who can recommend many different trips and hidden places along the Mendecino coastline.We stayed in the Hawthorne Room, a wonderful suite looking out onto fields and a nice sliver of the ocean. Named so because it features a nice portrait of Nathaniel Hawthorne and a piece of furniture old Nat owned. It was lovingly hauled out to California by the proprietress, who can tell you the story behind Nathaniel's blue eyes. Our suite also featured a fireplace with ample kindling and a bottle of Husch Chardonnay chilling in the small fridge in the corner of the room. How nice a welcome after dealing with the three hour drive from the city.
After a very decent night's sleep we rose to one of the best B & B breakfasts I've ever had. The communal breakfast is in the main dining room, chocked with gorgeous antiques. And let me tell you, that woman can cook. Her Eggs Benedict is just remarkable and I keep trying them at several different restaurants throughout the Bay area and nothing--absolutely nothing--comes close to them.
Although my companion and I spent much of our time up in Mendecino, our proprietors did let us know that they could arrange for a massage therapist or an afternoon or horseback riding. They also had a room full of pamphlets of the latest attractions in the area, including a mystery dinner and a well-respected garden that offered inspiring views of the ocean. So you can spend the weekend in your room cuddling or out in Mendecino enjoying the sites. My partner and I chose the former and when you visit Fensalden, you'll understand why.
Fensalden Inn, 33810 Navarro Ridge Road, Albion, CA 95410
Tel: 707-937-4042
FAX: 707-937-2416
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