SMALL BUT UNIQUE - OCCIDENTAL
Another couple of miles down the road through valleys, with redwoods and spruces on one side and beautiful pastures on the other, Graton Rd. ends at Occidental Highway. We turned right and followed a route that lead us through dark redwoods over the coast range ridges before descending into Occidental, where Occidental Road intersects the Bohemian Highway.
At first glance Occidental looks like another proverbial wide spot in the road but there is a lot more to it than that!
The present day village has a population of only 1200 people but has an assortment of attractions.The main street is only 2 blocks but there are several restaurants, antique shops, numerous artisans displaying their special creations, a Japanese-inspired spa and a rare plant nursery. The original Occidental Hotel, built during the timber boom of the 19th century is still operating and its dining room is renowned for its Italian cuisine.
Occidental originated as a rail head that connected the Russian River Redwood Forest to the Sausalito ferry and the entire Bay area. Hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of board feet were shipped from Occidental on the railroad (NPCRR) on its way to construction sites further east and south.
Today, Occidental and its lovely country roads that radiate outward, are a favorite for cyclists, car clubs and motorcyclists.Every Friday it is the home of the Bohemian Farmers' Market and is located close to several award-winning wineries that are open to the public.
Stay tuned for our final segment and the Bohemian Highway, one of the most scenic drives in the whole state of California.
Kathleen Bonham
this mural is painted on the side of a bulding in the center of town as map and directory for visitors.
Sebastopol, Santa Rosa, Healdsburg
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