August
14,
2018
CASTLE ROCK STATE PARK TURNS 50!
All Photos by Molly Ressler
Perched atop one of the highest ridges in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Castle Rock State Park offers expansive views of the San Lorenzo Valley. Miles of forested peaks stretch out below, fading from chartreuse and emerald green to sage, the furthest peaks a hazy blue that meet the fog-shrouded Pacific. Although not as famous as its neighbor, Big Basin State Park, Castle Rock has its own grove of redwoods, a 75-foot waterfall, miles of hiking along open ridges and through shady forests, and a playground of sandstone rock formations attracting both world-class climbers and amateur scramblers.
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August
08,
2018
WORK IT: SOMMELIER ALYSSA TWELKER
Photos by Garrick Ramirez
Meet Alyssa Twelker, one of a growing number of young individuals energizing the Santa Cruz wine scene. An early food and drink enthusiast, the Sunnyvale native went to work as private chef straight out of high school and celebrated her 21st birthday with a sommelier certification. Weeks later, she was in Santa Cruz working at Soif where she eventually became wine director. After tasting—and surfing—her way through Europe, she’s back in town behind the bar at the gorgeous new tasting room for Birichino. We recently sat down with Alyssa to chat wine and get answers to burning questions such as “Do we really need to sniff the cork?” and “What Star Wars character would make the best somm?”
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August
06,
2018
Dog-Friendly Wineries in Santa Cruz County
Oh, the carefree life of a winery dog. It ranks high on our list of reincarnation fantasies. Yet in Santa Cruz County, which is home to over 70 family-owned wineries, you needn’t wait until the next go-round to enjoy a breezy life of leisure. Treat yourself—and your pooch—to a taste of the good life at the following dog-friendly tasting rooms.
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August
01,
2018
Visit Elkhorn Slough
Photo courtesy of @hannahbauh Have you been to
Elkhorn Slough? This peaceful reserve is full of beauty and wildlife, plus you can choose how to explore, via waterways or on-foot on the 5 miles of trails. Check out these inspiring photos taken at this natural wonder and plan your own visit to Elkhorn Slough!
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July
31,
2018
24th Annual Watsonville Strawberry Festival
Some might consider strawberries to be one of the crown jewels of Watsonville and we'd have to agree! These ruby red treats are grown throughout the year, and it's no wonder we take a full weekend to celebrate our love for all things strawberry!
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