We head up to Sausalito and Marin County about five times a year in all different seasons. Generally we go up on a weekend so we have time to shop in Sausalito or drive a bit further north and go hiking in Muir Woods or up Mt. Tamalpias or go out to Stinson Beach. Of these, Muir Woods is by far my favorite. We hiked through the trees in a light fog until we crossed a ridge and headed through grassland down toward the ocean, then turned around and came back. The light fog cooled the air down so that despite the strenuous path we chose for the hike we never overheated.

And when we do head up north, we always plan to stop for dinner at the most wonderful French restaurant I've been in. It's called Christophe's, and it's located in a converted home, so it's quite small. Reservations are almost always a necessity. They have a fixed price menu and an early bird special for those dining in the early evening. Menu items include appetizers like carpaccio, salmon tartar, brie en croute, entrees such as ostrich, duck, lamb chops, veal, and wonderful fish dishes. The fixed price dinner includes an appetizer, salad, entree, and dessert. And the wine selections are wonderful and moderately priced.

The scenery and the wonderful food make every trip to Marin wonderful.



Recommended: Yes