The Victorian Village

In these stressful times, where lives are rushed and demands are many, it can be difficult to imagine that there still exists a different way of living.  Ferndale, California not only harkens back to an era that was more relaxed, an era where work and community were one, but shows that this can continue today.  For Ferndale is not just a pretty face, with its renowned historic Victorian architecture, it is a working village centered around dairy farming, farmed the way it used to be by families who have lived here for generations, who care about their farms and their community.

The architecture of Ferndale is pure Victorian, not just on Main Street, where you can see the most elaborate examples of Victorian gingerbread, but the entire  area is Victorian, including the working farmhouses. And, Ferndale residents take great pride in their homes and farms, set in this lovely valley with the Eel River running through.  You couldn't find a more beautiful setting, the river winding its way through the valley, the King Range rising to the south, and the long sweep of the Centerville Beach defining the western limits of the valley.

Soaking up the beauty of the area isn't the only thing to do in Ferndale. The village offers a wide variety of activities, some centered around the County Fairgrounds, where you can attend the County Fair in August, or watch demonstration by blacksmiths at the Blacksmiths Convention.  The Lost Coast Kennel Club hosts two dogs shows, one conformation and obedience, and another agility trial.  The town boasts a repertory theater, and at Christmas there is the famous tree lighting ceremony, with the lighting of the tallest living Christmas tree.  The renowned Ferndale Community Choir gives performances at Christmas and Easter that shouldn't be missed.   For a complete listing of local activities, go to:  www.humboldt1.com/chamber/events.htm

In addition to the events in town and at the Fairgrounds, you can hike on the Centerville Beach, a short drive from downtown.  There you can take your dog, and hike all day, if you wish.  The redwoods are not far away, and a short drive will bring you to the Avenue of the Giants, where you can see the biggest trees on earth.  Hiking trails abound in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, and you can swim at Swimmers Delight on the Van Duzen River on Highway 36.

Go north to Eureka, where you will find a wide variety of restaurants.  You can visit the Clarke Museum there and see one of the most magnificent displays of Yurok baskets anywhere.  Some of the most beautiful beaches in the world can be found north of Ferndale - Moonstone Beach, Agate Beach, Big Lagoon and Clam Beach.  Dogs are welcome at most beaches.

Whether you love the outdoors, or want the amenities and cultural events of the town, you will find it all in Ferndale.  To make your vacation complete, stay at the Morningstar Vacation Rental in Ferndale, www.vacationferndale.com.  This lovely farmhouse, with its beautiful gardens, will welcome you and your family.  You can even bring your dog.