A couple of weeks ago, we traveled up north (been doing that a lot these days) for a wedding and a few days of exploring and R&R, our destination was Philo in Mendocino County. I was so surprised by the beautiful weather, quaint small towns, abundance of vineyards and the lush, wild land. The wedding was at the Apple Farm in Philo, a throwback to Americana, a time when you could stop by a stand to pick up your apples, cider, jam, and use the honor system, a slower pace of living and working, and being pleasantly separated from a modern life. Okay, maybe I Instagramed a couple of times.

Below is the cottage where we stayed. Simple and rustic A-frame cottage fitted with a fireplace, cozy and comfy bed, chairs, book and games, beautiful bathroom (cow outside in the pasture) with a claw foot tub and a private wooden deck with an outdoor shower. Nestled in rustic luxury, we fell asleep under the stars (one part of the A-frame was glass with a magnificent view of the milky way).

In the morning, we woke up with the sun and enjoyed a long walk around the property. The owners give you free range to roam. We arrived back to the main lodge and chef’s kitchen to a beautiful spread, including fresh made biscuits and homemade preserves.

Rick and I both agreed that the farm was reminiscent of our time in Tuscany. The air, crisp on your cheeks, with the distance smell of a fire, and the landscape with layers of hills, dusted with fertile trees. It felt like Italy.

I want to go back and visit. However, next time I will take one of their cooking classes.