Geo: 34.893, -117.026The Hearst castle was an excellent example of what you can do with lots of $$. Originally the land area owned by the Hearst family was in excess of 300 sq miles. William Randolph Hearst had travelled to Europe at the age of 10 with his mother. This was likely where he got many of his ideas. The castle is built of concrete to withstand earthquakes. The construction was augmented by artifacts brought from all over Europe and Asia and integrated into the structure. Money was no object and the project took 20 - 30 years. There was also a zoo and many exotic animals from around the world. Most of the animals have since been removed but some still wander the hillsides including zebra. After the 3 hour visit to the castle we ... read more

Geo: 36.974, -122.031Trip took us from Eureka south to Willits and then east to Clearlake in a lake district. More redwoods as well as a trip up into snow country. Then south through the Napa Valley where we visited a couple of vineyards - the Caberbet Reserve was excellent. We avoided San Francisco by heading southeast through Vallejo, San Jose and then west to Sanata Cruz on the coast. Four lane highways look like side streets around here. Steep climb through the mountains from San Jose to Santa Cruz. Had dinner at a very nice Mexican restaurant. The rains are back but weather is supposed to be better tomorrow when we head south through Monterey.... read more

Geo: 44.0499, -123.089Did about 700K today through rain, hail and then more rain. Add in the wind and heavy traffic through Seattle and Tacoma. Tomorrow California and hopefully warmer weather and a more peaceful drive. Car runs well. Got my unofficial beer rep badge at a neat restaurant where we had a great Thai salad with beef marinated in ginger - lemon. Very tasty. Lots of ewes along the way in Oregon with spring lambs. Land is quite flat. Will have a look at Eugene tomorrow before heading south.... read more