Lake County's Wonderful 'Ville Story & Photos by Barbara L. Steinberg
Small towns are comfortable -- like your favorite old slippers or softly-tattered pair of blue jeans. That's the feeling you get in Kelseyville. Coming home to someplace familiar. If small, funky, worn around the edges, old dog walking down the street, no stop light towns are something you love take a tour of this old-time 'ville.
I wonder what it was like, you know, back in the day? Bustling with life. Some storefronts are empty, but newcomers like Lulu's Ice Cream -- three years new -- are willing to take the plunge and invest in Kelseyville. And after many yeas away, it's nice to see that the SawShop Gallery Bistro and Studebaker's are going strong on Main Street! Wine tasting is another attraction on this tiny stretch of road, all Lake County vintages.
Main Street was quiet the evening I arrived. But I don't mind. It's been a long week; a respite is precious. Dinner at Saw Shop Gallery Bistro is cozy and friendly. It's been at least four years, but I remember my waiter from our previous encounter. A glass of wine and half of a 1/2-pound Saw Shop angus burger (the other half perfect for tomorrow's lunch) followed by a couple of Lulu's organic scoops and I am down for the count. It really doesn't get much better than this.
Kelseyville has a handful of places to count sheep at night. On the edge of town, 
the old Kelseyville Motel suits me just fine. Probably the height of fashion in its day, this old motor court is just what I needed. The owners are friendly, the rooms are tidy, free Wi-Fi, and a good value for any budget traveler. Clearly I am not the only one who believes this. The parking lot is nearly full by the time I return from my evening repast. My neighbor has just arrived from Redding. We are both heading for the Heron Festival & Wildflower Brunch at Clear Lake State Park, an annual event for birders and nature lovers of all kinds. The two-day annual event includes pontoon boat tours, guest speakers, bird and nature walks, children's activities, and exhibit booths.
While I am happy to cross this tiny "ville" of my list, it won't be my last tour...of this I am sure.
Barbara L. Steinberg is a member
of the Outdoor Writers Association of California.
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