June/July 2019 83
rustic retreat. Mediterranean microclimates
and soil rich in volcanic ash produce impressive
Cabernets and Sauvignon Blancs. At
night, the sky is the main entertainment,
with infinite stargazing opportunities, and
to get an even closer look, head to Taylor
Observatory on the third Saturday of each
month, on the lake’s west side in Kelseyville.
STAY
CLEAR LAKE COTTAGES & MARINA At the
gates of wine country, this meticulously
landscaped, pet-friendly, waterfront lodge
has direct lake access, picnic areas, cottages
with full kitchens and modern dock
facilities. Boats, kayaks and other watercraft
are available for guests to rent. clearlake
cottagesandmarina.com/en-us
TALLMAN HOTEL A fully restored, 1890sera
auberge, Tallman began hosting guests
again in 2006 with 17 rooms, full-service
bar and restaurant with concierge-level services.
Guests enjoy the sun-splashed sitting
parlor and an elegant, period-furnished
dining room with hand-painted walls. The
Lower Garden rooms are equipped with
traditional Japanese Ofuro soaking tubs
on private patios. tallmanhotel.com
DINE
KOUR THAI Diners enjoy a spectacular
view of the lake, seafood and fresh vegetables,
all reasonably priced at this Thai
restaurant. Specialties include Pad Thai,
sizzling chicken, Thai mango sticky rice
and fresh veggie spring rolls. lakecounty.
com/restaurant/kour-thai-restaurant
THE SPOT Clear Lake’s classic, 1950s-style
bar features live music, a vibrant atmosphere
and a menu with 20 different kinds
of burgers and down-home entrees like fried
chicken and fish ’n’ chips. clearlakespot.com
Whatever lake you head to from the
South Bay this summer, once you arrive
you’ll be primed to jump in for a cool dip,
lay back on the shore for a sunbath, pull
up a chair for a refreshing libation and tasty
meal, or simply stretch out on a comfortable
bed and relax. They all accommodate
total relaxation as well as enticing outdoor
adventure. Dive in, we say, and immerse
yourself in natural beauty. n
Clear Lake
TENAYA LODGE
AT YOSEMITE,
BASS LAKE