Adventures in the Area
Most people find the spiritual retreat atmosphere at Ratna Ling and the programs very welcoming and uplifting and often find it hard to leave. However, for those who like to enhance their spiritual practice by taking a nature hike while here, there is an abundance of peaceful hiking trails and parks in the surrounding areas. There are also many activities to stop and enjoy on the way to or from the center.
STATE PARKS
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is an 850 acre preserve of coast Redwoods, up to 1400 years old and towering as high as 300 feet. Located in the town of Guerneville, it is a spectacular place to stop for a hike on your way to or from Ratna Ling.
Fort Ross State Park is a former Russian fort that has many of its historical buildings preserved as they were in the 1800s. In addition, they have a museum and several festivals throughout the year. It is about a 25 minute drive south of Ratna Ling.
Kruse Rhododendron State Natural Reserve is located about 20 minutes away by car or about a one hour hike.
Salt Point State Park is reached by driving just a few minutes from Ratna Ling. Its 6000 acres have 20 miles of hiking trails, 6 miles of which are along the Pacific coast. It includes trails through redwoods, meadows and a pygmy forest.
Sonoma Coast State Park spans 17 miles of scenic coastal beaches and bluffs, starting at the spectacular Bodega Head and ending at the Vista Trail, 4 miles north of the town of Jenner. There are several beaches with free parking where you can search for shells and watch whales migrate.
WINERIES
Fort Ross Winery is located 20 minutes away by car and offers exceptional Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, along with a spectacular view from their tasting room.
Annapolis Winery is located in the hills above Sea Ranch, about 45 minutes by car. Their award-winning wines include Pinot Noirs, Cabernets, Zinfandels and Zinfandel Port.
Sonoma Coast Vineyards tasting room is located in the town of Bodega Bay. They pour their Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Syrah varietals 7 days a week.
THE ARTS
Gualala Arts Center is located a beautiful 45 minute drive up the coast. They host regular art exhibits as well as chamber concerts and other performances throughout the year. Located in the town of Gualala, you will find several art galleries, restaurants and interesting local shops.
The Sea Ranch is internationally known for its distinctive architecture, sensitivity of its land planning, and community-based stewardship of the natural environment. It is a community of private homes along a 10-mile stretch of the Sonoma coast, just south of the town of Gualala. They have a lodge which houses a restaurant, bar and gift shop. There is also a uniquely styled chapel.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Water Treks offers kayak rentals and eco tours from their base in the town of Jenner, where the Russian River meets the Pacific ocean.
Horse N Around Trail Rides, offers guided trails rides on horseback, through the hillsides above Bodega Bay.
The Links at Bodega Harbor is an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Combining spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, rolling fairways, undulating greens and native coastal rough, this golf course is sure to take your breath away.
Madrone Audubon Society organizes many field trips in Sonoma County and the north bay area.
There are a myriad of wonderful adventures to experience on your way to or from Ratna Ling.