Occidental: Sonoma

The dining and artistic hub of western Sonoma County, Occidental is best known as being the site of the Bohemian Grove, the playground of the rich and powerful where presidents, statesmen and ther pals have revelled in secrecy for generations. Occidental has also long been known as a hub of traditional country-style Italian dining, thanks to the presence of four family-run Italian restaurants and hotels that have remained much unchanged since they were opened in the area's logging heyday. Occidental and nearby Freestone have two top-notch spas, the Japanese-style enzyme baths at Osmosis and the more traditional Occidental Inn and Spa. Despite its small size, Occidental offers a surprising number of galleries and boutiques that showcase the work of the area's many resident artists and craftspeople. © NileGuide