Day 3 - May 11, 2010

The morning sun was in all its glory as it rose over the bay in Monterey.  If you have never experienced it, please put it on your list of things to do before you depart this earth.  Although the hotel we stayed in is completely modern, including the exterior (paint and architecture), Cannery Row still has a quaint charm of a seaside town.  The seagulls were already awake, and those who work behind the scenes at all the businesses and such were scurrying to get back “behind the scenes.” 

Breakfast at the “C” Restaurant was terrific.  The menu was interesting, and had plenty of choices.  A great cup of coffee and a table at the window (floor to ceiling – overlooking the bay), made for a very pleasant start.  Bill and I sat with two Mikes (Clark and Conrad).  As a side note, I believe that there are about 10 Mikes on this trip.  There are at least 2 Bills, and 3 Dennis (s?).  Thank goodness there is only one Wendell!!! (just kidding Wendell…)

The group came downstairs in dribs and drabs, some for breakfast, some just for the view and company.  In no time we were loaded and on the road, headed for one of my favorite set of roads – and a destination for lunch that makes me hungry already.

Up Highway 1 we drove, through the farmlands of California.  It never ceases to amaze me how much of the landscape is dedicated to agriculture up here.  Thank goodness it isn’t just tract homes.  The air was brisk, as the ocean was still having her influence on the day.  Traffic was light, and though we are a large group, we made it through traffic without a problem.  We exited in the south part of Santa Cruz and headed up Highway 9 (for you map followers).

Awe inspiring – breath taking – heart stopping… I wish I could find the exact words to describe this road.  From a riding perspective, the road surface was in great shape.  Few potholes were noted, and the twists and turns were in just the right amount to make the ride both beautiful and challenging.  Being this close to the trees, Redwoods – Pines and more- made you feel part of everything.  I have often said that I believe touring on a motorcycle is the most intimate way to travel.  Not just because you are close to your co-rider, but you are close to the road and all that surrounds it!  The trees enveloped us and lined our way north.  We passed through several very interesting towns, many of which are on my list of places to stay sometime in the future.  From Highway 9 we eventually turned onto Highway 35, Skyline Boulevard.  Thank goodness I don’t routinely faint while I’m riding.  Skyline Boulevard starts much like Highway 9.  Trees, ferns, flowers – it is all there.  Then as you climb, you are treated to views of the Pacific Ocean and majestic hillsides.  There are homes up here, or should I say estates.  Awesome.

Alice’s Restaurant was our lunch destination.  Andy, the owner, was gracious and ready for our group.  I had been in touch with him on a few occasions and had warned him that we were coming.  No problem.  This place is a Mecca for motorcyclists.  They were prompt and efficient.  The major bonus is that the food is GREAT.  Imagine sitting amongst some of the tallest trees and most beautiful scenery you have ever seen.  That is Alice’s.

Westward down Pescadaro Canyon to Highway 1.  North onto San Francisco.  Crossing the Golden Gate Bridge is never tiresome.  Today, and I hate to say it, was perfect.  Of all the times to not have my blushing bride with me I am sorry that this is it.  We were treated to a perfectly clear, not too breezy, calm and cool day.  The views and vistas over Alcatraz and the city itself were postcard quality.  The bridge was there in all her glory.  One thing that always happens (and I mean every time we come here), is the curiosity of the tourists toward the motorcycles.  Not being a Harley rider myself, I too appreciate the beauty of the chrome beast.  They are the quintessential representation of road freedom, with a shape and sound that is most certainly unique – but identifiable by people all over the globe.  Tourists want their picture taken by the bikes, and you should see the smiles when the guys say that it is OK to sit on them.  I actually think that this is half the fun.   I would love to do an internet search, and find their vacation pictures posted to their family websites.  That would be great.

The ride to the hotel itself was simple.  We traveled up the 101 to Santa Rosa and got to the Hilton Sonoma Wine Country about 6 pm.  This hotel is amazing, with plenty of amenities.  I had phoned ahead and talked to Tessa (my new bestest buddy).  I asked if they could set up a bike wash station – and there it was… hose, buckets and plenty of towels to wipe off the grime!!!  Tessa is awesome.  Wendell Eaton made the arrangements for our group here at the Hilton, and I must say that he knocked one out of the park.

We spent the evening at the restaurant, and then moved to the outdoor patio for an unobstructed view of the entire valley.  I think I counted about a million stars.  Wonderful.