In my last blog, I talked about my trip to San Francisco and the wineries we visited. We also embarked on a number of active excursions as well, including lots of hiking.

One trip we took was to Bolinas Ridge in Nicasio, Calif. — about an hour or so outside of the city. The drive itself was stunning, and we wound our way up the mountains, through redwood forests and wondered how much the cliffside homes must cost.

When we got to the hiking spot, we realized we were underdressed for such a windy day in just athletic gear and light jackets, but we trekked on. Along the way we hiked up rolling green hills as far as the eye could see, a sight I could only compare to the rolling hills of Ireland. At the highest point the views were absolutely stunning.

We passed by a heard of cattle, a little too close for comfort. Our friend’s golden retriever, Beau — who, at 6 months, is a little rambunctious — ran right up to them to play. They didn’t seem to like him too much and made a motion to charge. Luckily they didn’t, but I definitely quickened my pace and hoped not to cross paths again.

We looped around about a five-mile path, through the forest and back to our meeting point. We got a little lost along the way, but the hike was beautiful and worth the journey.

— Allie Menzione, assistant editor