Discover Occidental: Botanical Garden, Coast Redwoods, and Local Experiences

Occidental combines a distinctive local history with a botanical garden, ancient coast redwoods, and a regular market scene. Those planning a trip with a variety of ideas for each day will find both nature experiences and insights into local history and cuisine here. When choosing a holiday apartment in Occidental, it is worth deciding in advance which aspects are most important to you: Should the garden and forest paths be the main focus, are you more interested in historic sites, or would you like to combine a market day with regional food?

Local History and Californian Cuisine

The Occidental Historic District was designated by the Sonoma County Landmarks Commission in 1980. The town’s history is also reflected in the railway depot, which was originally known as Howards Station. At Occidental’s old train station, Howard Station Café serves American classics and Californian cuisine. This allows you to connect your stay with the town’s history through its culinary offerings as well, without focusing the trip exclusively on a single attraction.

Botanical Garden and Ancient Trees

Western Hills Garden is a three-acre botanical refuge in Occidental. Rare plant species grow there, many of which are nearly extinct in the wild. The garden is open to visitors on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., although opening is weather-dependent. Walk-in visits are welcome, but appointments are strongly recommended. Western Hills Garden also offers self-guided day visits, guided tours, workshops, and courses. Depending on your interests, you can therefore plan your stay at a relaxed pace and independently or with a more structured program.

Another natural highlight awaits you at the Grove of Old Trees. The area covers 33 acres and features ancient coast redwoods and simple paths. Some of these paths are suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. This is specific information for planning a day out with family members who have different levels of mobility; at the same time, you should consider the individual paths separately, as the same suitability is not stated for all of them. Grove of Old Trees is suitable for walking and picnicking.

Market, Regional Products, and Special Nature Experiences

The Occidental Community Farmers Market takes place on Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. in downtown Occidental. It is located on Main Street between First Street and Third Street. Local organic farmers, bakers, and chefs come together there. If you prefer a holiday apartment with self-catering facilities, visiting the market can be an interesting opportunity to get to know the town and its regional products; this does not imply anything about the specific amenities or shopping options at your accommodation.

Nearby, access to the Bohemia Ecological Preserve is possible only through guided hikes and volunteer activities. The preserve offers views of expansive coastal prairie as well as stands of old Douglas firs, hardwood riparian forests, chaparral, and oak woodlands. This area is therefore suitable for travelers who want to experience nature not only independently but also as part of a guided or volunteer activity.

Which Stay Suits You?

Occidental is well suited to trip plans that combine several peaceful and varied days. A holiday apartment or holiday home in Occidental can serve as your base if you want to organize your days around different interests. The key consideration is whether you want to take fixed visiting hours into account during your stay or prefer to plan flexibly. This allows you to adapt your daily schedule to your own rhythm and to the times of the experiences you would like to enjoy.

Other destinations you may want to consider include Monte Rio, Forestville, Sonoma, Vineburg, Healdsburg, Glen Ellen, Cazadero, and Graton.

Return to the main travel overview: Sonoma.