Northern Sonoma County – Exploring the “Russian Territory”

We are especially in love with Northern part of the County, (North of the Russian River), which I have not covered yet on this blog.

There are many reasons to go to that part of Sonoma: gorgeous coastline, majestic forests, peace and tranquility. But also for us, being Russian, this territory has an important historic significance – it was a Russian colony for about 30 years from 1812 to 1841. In a way it always feels like coming home and I want to share this beautiful land with you.

A good way to start your trip is from the Russian River which slowly winds through Sonoma County to the Pacific Ocean. You can explore the River in different ways, depending on the season. In summer you can kayak or tube. The river flow is slow and gentle so kayaking is great even for small kids (we like double kayaks so that each of our kids sit with an adult).

In October-November a scenic drive along the Russian River Road from HW 101 to HW 1 is a must if you love fall colors. You will see all the splendor of fall in red, orange yellow and brown due to variety of trees, bushes and the abundance of vineyards (grape leaves have a variety of colors in fall from yellow to almost purple, depending on the type of grape)

The area where Russian River meets the ocean is beautiful any time of year. There are several places in Jenner, CA along HW 1 where you can stop and enjoy the scenic views of the River.

It is a restaurant and a community center all in one.

It is based on a very unique concept: no set menu (items change every day), hearty homemade food and no set prices. You pay from you consciousness or from your heart, whatever it feels like this meal was worth to you. There are typically 6-7 dishes served buffet style: when we stopped by a couple of times there was always soup, salad, 1 or 2 meat dishes and a couple of garnishes like potatoes, porridge, a vegetable casserole, bread and tea. The menu is a combination of Russian and Californian dishes (and sometimes it is Russian dish with a California twist or the other way around). But whatever they serve is always yummy and healthy and kids approved.

When you turn North from Russian River on HW 1 and drive 30 minutes or so you will arrive at Fort Ross – the former heart and soul of the Russian territory and now a State Historic Park. I already talked about it in detail in my Mendocino County road trip itinerary. It is definitely worth a stop, it would be both fund and educational for kids and adults and I would allocate at least a couple of hours of exploration here.

There is an air of something whimsical about Sea Ranch. There are trails that lead you through areas that look like enchanted forest.

There is whimsical architecture around – check out Sea Ranch Chapel, for instance. It is a nondenominational chapel for prayer and meditation that looks like fairy tale cottage inside and out. Access to the Chapel is free for all, regardless where you are staying.