(At night, one can see the far-off headlights of cars traversing the steep grade down to Jenner.) To the east are rolling hills, dotted with cattle, and green grass much of the year. Hiking trails to the top of the hills provide magnificent views far up and down the coast-those lucky cows. A ten-minute hike northward along the bluff overlooking the ocean affords views of the rugged, majestic coastline. Or, after a short hike northward along the beach, all traces of human existence disappear: houses, roads, cars, even telephone poles can’t be seen. Ocean-spray from the crashing of the waves against rock formations of all colors, sea-life, and birds are all that are visible. (Keep an eye out for a small cave in the bluff.) A couple of miles or so further north along the beach, at very low tide, one can skirt a bluff that juts into the ocean to arrive at Sea Shell State Park. Few sea shells are found, but the rock formations are unworldly, and the tide pools are worth the hike.
During the evening, spectacular sunsets can often be seen from the deck. It is unusual to find a hot tub with such a splendid view of the ocean-in the moonlight, the water shimmers and sparkles. The nights are usually clear, giving up the unimpeded views of stars and the Milky Way. The only sounds you hear is the ocean-no passing cars can be heard since you are so close to the ocean far from highway one.
Garden
The third picture was taken from the garden in the front of the house. Through the window, the dining/breakfast room and the ocean beyond are seen. Humming birds, cliff swallows, and finches are frequent visitors to the garden. Hermit thrushes are often heard, and birds of prey can be seen as well as shore birds, warblers, and vireos-to name a few. As the second and third pictures show, the dining/breakfast room offers views of both the garden and the ocean. The master bedroom opens through French doors to the garden.
Living-space, accommodations :The views of the ocean from the comfort of the living room can be seen in the forth picture. To the right is the entertainment system, including satellite TV, VCR, DVD, CD and stereo-most of these features are also available in the master bedroom. Sliding doors close the library off from the living room.
Beach: Although Cliff Cottage is about seventy feet above Wright’s Beach-high enough that tsunamis are of little worry-the large Monterey Cypress that covers the cliff gives the impression that the ocean is very close. (The cliff is more of a steep slope, not a sheer cliff.) The beach is readily accessible after a short walk past two houses to the north end of Cliff Avenue. There are plenty of wonders to explore along the waterfront and beach-one of the most pleasant times to explore the beachfront is in the morning, when the winds are often still.
Whale Watching: Often from Mar through the end of April one can see California greys from the deck.
Golf:
The Links at Bodega Harbour is a 4 Star Golf Digest “Places to Play” award winner and offers fabulous views of the Pacific Ocean. Less expensive courses are at Northwood Golf Club on the Russian River and Sebastopol golf courses all within 10 to 30 minutes from Cliff Cottage.
Other Activities:
beach combing, hiking, bird watching
