Cazadero, California
A Magical Place
Chances are even if you are from California, it’s possible that you’ve never heard of Cazadero. It is a small unincorporated town with a population of under 400 people located in the gorgeous Sonoma Redwood Forest sandwiched between Guerneville and the Pacific Ocean. Although we had been to Guerneville on the Russian River many times, about ten years ago we decided to try something different. In doing so, we discovered a magical place called Elim Grove Cottages, located behind the wonderful Raymond’s Bakery. The Redwoods, the wafting sweet smells from the bakery, the well-maintained cottages, and especially the owner/baker's hospitality make this place a destination we have returned to repeatedly. Our friends and family have also enjoyed Elim Grove Cottages and Raymond’s Bakery.
The cottages look rustic from the outside but inside you will find a modern bathroom and sleeping room with a comfy bed. There is also a small sitting room with a pull-out bed that can accommodate one more person. If you have a larger group, you can rent a house that has two nice bedrooms, a living room, and a kitchen. (If you are looking for higher-end, turn-down the bed, chocolate on your pillow nighttime service these accommodations won’t be for you.)
Each morning you will wake up to the brilliant fresh air of the Redwood Forest. You will be treated to Raymond Bakery’s amazing freshly baked goods, perhaps some fruit or a hard-boiled egg, and something to drink. That wonderful, delicious aroma that wafts from the bakery each morning will have you dreaming of Mark’s tasty treats long after you leave.
And just so you know, you don’t have to stay here to enjoy something wonderful at Raymond’s Bakery. Just stop by.
There isn’t a whole lot to do in Cazadero but lots of things are close by. (See DO) The best thing to do in Cazadero is simply to relax. The Cazadero Performing Arts Camp is close by and on occasion, you just might be lucky enough to hear the musicians practicing. Read a book, drink some wine, take a hike in the Redwoods perhaps along Austin Creek, or maybe take a nap. While there is internet, at times it can be spotty. Gee, that can be a good thing.
If you are lucky enough to be here on a Friday night you can dance to live music and enjoy a delicious oven-fired pizza right on the property. The locals show up as well as other visits and everyone is welcoming.
You don’t have to stay at Elim Cottages to partake in the Friday night pizza party and revelry. (See EAT for some ideas.) Mark, the proprietor will certainly give you some suggestions.
There are other places to stay in Cazadero that I am sure are very nice but Elim Cottages/Raymond’s Bakery is our go-to spot so I can only tell you about this wonderful place.
TIPS. Do your best to arrive in Cazadero before it gets dark. I wouldn’t want you to miss the turn-off for Cazadero. The road is very dark and you just might miss your accommodation. GPS may or may not work. Once you know where you are going you should be fine if you go out for dinner. Cell phone and internet reception are ok but can be spotty at times.
