The magic of Capay Valley

There’s a region in Northern California which, up until recently, didn’t seem to have a name to identify it the way we would with other parts of our state.

Most locals call it according to what they would visit for — Stonyford for the motor bikers, Ladoga for the camping, Berryessa for its boating, Capay Valley for its farming, Cache Creek for the gambling … errrr…. swimming holes?

For others, it’s a blank space on the map with not much going on at the moment. Even today, having been christened with the title “Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument,” it’s unlikely curious travelers will refer to the 300,000-acre region that stretches from Winters up to the Mendocino National Forest as such.

A small handful of highways that connect these hills do little to change the vibe, but with a bit of curiosity and proper planning, there a true gems to be uncovered here — starting with Highway 16 and its route through the Capay Valley.

Having visited Capay Valley on numerous occasions, what initially catches attention is the homage paid to its native ancestors, the Patwin tribe of Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation. The town of Esparto serves as the southern gateway to the valley and here is where you’ll find a quick history lesson as you pass through, marked with murals and signage of the land they steward.

This continues for the entire stretch of Highway 16: Signs noting the tribes farming influences, their olive oil tasting and winemaking and, of course, the Cache Creek Casino Resort.

There are five anchor businesses to this cozy valley floor, six if you count the casino itself, but the ones to truly focus your time on are luckily neatly spaced and can be supported all in one go.

Just outside Esparto headed north is the tiny town of Capay, notably landmarked with The Road Trip Bar & Grill. While certainly a typical bar and grill is known for a good time, The Road Trip is a community hub — and it’s clear the owners and staff invest heavily in creating a fun gathering spot.

Drop in at any moment and there is a promise of live entertainment, whether it be music, games, celebrations or an enthusiastic server. The outdoor patio is also meticulously landscaped and includes several murals and installations honoring veterans, local history and California pride.

Traveling further north after enjoying a stop at Road Trip, the next destination is Taber Ranch Vineyards, another community center that extends beyond just a tasting room.

This family-friendly winery has a sprawling shaded picnic area and lineup of events as well — including a unique experience of playing pickleball on freshly installed pickleball courts, quite literally framed with old growth grapevines. What better weekend tournament setting than being surrounded with lush vineyard?

Moving along, one of the additional perks of the Capay Valley is several small farms and farm stands, and a highway lined on either side with orchards.

If you want a real eye popping show, come during peak almond blossom season — Capay Valley is known for its Almond Festival that takes place the last weekend of February and is also known for its Cache Creek Lavender Festival in June, where several lavender farms are in peak bloom and host many activities for visitors. When you adventure this way, plan on supporting these small businesses.

Séka Hills Olive Mill and Tasting Room in Brooks is another must stop destination. Grown entirely from its Capay Valley land and carefully cultivated by the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation for over a thousand years, this is an opportunity that cannot be missed.

While the architecture itself is thoughtfully designed, the customer service is top notch and the tastings themselves exquisite; what is most remarkable is the history of this tribe and their unwavering dedication to stewarding the land they have inhibited for centuries. A full-circle, grounding experience unlike anything else in this state.

Next on the map is Guinda and the Rustic Bar-B-Q. Now, it’s true, this is a lot of food stops. However, a crucial part of any day trip experience is to support small businesses and so a purchase of an iced tea, a small side or even a pastry for the road can have a huge impact on the local economy.

The Rustic Bar-B-Q also comes with a massive steer-on-the-roof landmark, a colorfully painted water tower, farm equipment decor and the classic 100-year-old bar and barstools charm. Time it right and not only do you get fun photo ops, but also catch more live music on their patio.

Our final destination, and show-stopper, lands at Full Belly Farm and their farm dinner events. The right words to describe this fall short, but should you have the opportunity to spend an evening under the Capay Valley stars on a 400-acre certified organic farm, take full advantage.

Spots must be reserved in advance and, depending on which event you choose, you can find yourself here with a table full of friends or sprawl out on a blanket picnic style.

Every meal served is entirely home-grown and prepared from their land — a true farm-to-fork experience that starts with a farm tour where you can personally verify the origins of your fruits, vegetables and proteins.

The farm also hosts workshops and field trips, so if a full meal service is off the table, consider participating in one of their other offerings. To seal the sustainable deal, the Full Belly operation employs a year-round staff that stewards over 100 rotating crops and also livestock, bringing food security to surrounding communities.

Supporting the farm, and supporting this entire Capay Valley, is our collective civic duty.

To plan your day trip through Capay Valley, check out visityolo.com/capay-valley/

To see upcoming events at any of the stops mentioned, visit:

• www.roadtripbg.com

• www.TaberRanch.com

• www.yolocountryside.com/ calendar • www.fullbellyfarm.com • www.sekahills.com

California native Dannah Nielsen explores the lesser known areas of our state and shares her travels in hopes to inspire you to find new and adventurous ways to also enjoy California. For more inspiration, follow @Ca.love.fornia on Instagram or contact her via email at dannah. nielsen@hotmail.com.