Sebastopol and the Gravenstein Highway Sebastopol is a quaint rural town populated with politically active and environmentally sensitive citizens. It is situated about 50 miles north of San Francisco and nine miles west of Santa Rosa. Originally a vital apple-producing area, many of the orchards have been transformed into vineyards.
The town lies on the edge of the Santa Rosa Lagoon, which is fed by the Santa Rosa Creek and other tributaries. Many species of wildlife and vegetation inhabit this scenic wetland area.
The fertile region is home to many horticultural nurseries, including California Carnivores , 2833 Old Gravenstein Highway, (707 824-0433), which grows bug-eating plants, and Vintage Gardens, which raises antique and rare roses, 4130 Gravenstein Highway North, (707) 829-2035. Bamboo Sourcery, located a few miles out of town off Highway 12, at 666 Wagnon Road, gives private tours of acres of bamboo species up to 35 feet tall by appointment (707) 823-5866.
Fresh produce is abundant and available at Andy’s Produce at 1691 Highway 116 North, about 7 miles north of town, at Bill’s Farm Basket, 5 miles west at 10315 Bodega Highway, and at Laguna Farm at 1764 Cooper Road. Local historical landmarks include the Sebastopol Depot of the Petaluma and Santa Rosa Railway at 261 S. Main Street, and the George A. Strout House at 254 Florence Ave. Stop at the Sebastopol Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center for help with locating lodgings and restaurants. Their website also provides up-to-date information about special events, such as the Apple Blossom Festival, and practically anything else you need to know about about the town. If you have younger children traveling with you be sure to take them to the Super Playground, which features a large Medieval-type structure with lookouts and bridges. Ragle Park offers nature trails which provide some excellent birdwatching. There is a playground for children, and leashed dogs are allowed. You have a good choice of lodging options. The creative, eco-friendly and health-minded character of this town is evidenced by natural food markets, new age shops, local art and crafts galleries, and casual and formal restaurants. Highway 101, the starting point for any of the day trips, is just eight miles from Sebastopol.
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