Lots of wind farms in the area heading for Sacramento



Sunday 12
Rob has now joined our journey, I sort of thought we would look at Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks in a couple of days and be home, but Rob had taken the week off and made sure I saw everything in a fairly leisurely way. So we have a whole week more of road trip.

It has been pointed out that I am rushing this, but there was so much, I thought would get it up and fill out details later, I have even used my free quota on flickr!.

This area was fascinating once I saw it on the map, you don't realise you are on an island in the Sacramento River, there are a series of islands and some confusing geography.

So on the Sunday we had a late start after a late night, had stayed at the historic Ryde hotel in Walnut Grove,

This California Delta landmark is located three miles south of Walnut Grove, on scenic State Highway 160. You will find the hotel in its peaceful setting on the orchard-lined banks of the Sacramento River. This central location in the heart of California's picturesque Delta region makes the Ryde convenient to access from Sacramento, the Central Valley, the San Francisco Greater Bay Area, and the Napa-Sonoma Wine Country.

	Perched like a jewel on the Sacramento River, the inviting peach-tone facade of the Ryde literally stops traffic.

	A dramatic front walkway is covered by a long black and white striped awning. On either side are twin patios fashioned with white umbrellas and iron furniture, for al fresco dining. The view sweeps up and down the river and it is apparent, even from the road, that this charming Delta "hideaway" is truly something special.

from http://rydehotel.com/

Went into Sacramento for brunch at Rob's uncle's house, didn't see much of Sacramento. Drove to Volcano where Rob's family have a shared cabin, in the most peaceful place, surrounded by trees. On the way stopped at Sutter Creek to see the organ festival, amazing organs up and down the main street.

Peaceful Volcano

Headed off for Yosemite. Through some very flat agricultural country. Then suddenly into amazing mountains. We stopped for the night at Groveland.

On Highway 120, just 26 miles from the Yosemite Park entrance, the historic community of Groveland is the most convenient gateway to this treasured national landmark for tourists coming from the San Francisco Bay area, Sacramento, Stockton or Modesto. Groveland is also home to a great "downtown" with a park, shops, restaurants and the famous/infamous Iron Door Saloon � said to be California's oldest continuously-operating saloon. (from http://www.yosemitegold.com/yosemite/groveland.html)


Had dinner in the lovely Hotel Charlotte


We then had a drink and played a game of cards in the saloon, busy Sunday night crowd.