Clear Lake, California
Hubby is turning the big 4-0 this December, and in honor of this momentous occasion, he wanted to plan a “man trip.” This trip would include essential masculine activities including fishing and more fishing, target practice, getting into the great outdoors, driving around rugged terrain in an SUV, and pretending to be J.R.R. Tolkein and/or C.S. Lewis while smoking a pipe and drinking a glass of wine on an ambient porch. Don’t worry, though, dear reader… he doesn’t plan to make a habit out of tobacco usage, as he wants to live well past 40.
Now, hubby would simply have to determine which Worldmark would fit the bill for this age-of-distinction extravaganza. The location would have to be rustic and natural with an abundance of water. It would have to be close enough to drive to with a rented, monstrosity of a car known as a Tahoe. No question about it, the 3 amigos (hubby, his brother, and a friend) were going to depart for a Clear Lake man-adventure.
As per the instructions of some other Worldmark owners, I warned hubby not to drive the windy, heinous Highway 175. I suggested the 20, but he took the 58, 37 and other such highways instead. Unfortunately, one of those roads was a little hairy as well, but they did get to see some beautiful countryside in Napa and stop at a vineyard along the way.
“How is the lake?” I asked on the evening on their arrival. (I had to make sure they got there safely… I’m a doting wife and a mother, aren’t I?)
“It’s HUGE!” he replied.
Apparently, Clear Lake is the largest natural lake which resides completely in California. (I guess we can’t count the lovely Lake Tahoe, because it is partly in Nevada, right?”) It is also thought to be one of the oldest lakes in North America. Once the home to thousands of Native Americans, primarily the Pomo and Yuki-Wappo, today it is home to many boats and casinos, but it still maintains a rustic appeal and is full of wildlife. Clear Lake is also home to some less welcome critters… the Clear Lake gnat, otherwise known as the “phantom gnat.” One Worldmark owner at the pool described them as “friendly.” Well, at least they don’t bite!
From what I understand, the Worldmark lodge is oozing with architectural appeal, reminiscent of the Mission Period. I don’t think hubby was too concerned about Spanish architecture, but he did bring back some photos of the one bedroom they hunkered down in. There was indeed some wildlife in the suite as well, but it didn’t seem to bother my fearless men. They just brushed away said wildlife with their big, manly-man hands.
The 3 amigos “bachelorized” the kitchen pretty quickly with sausage, BBQ, and other things known to clog the arteries. But from what I understand, there was some salad and fruit in their midst. (Shocking!) Hopefully, there would be fish to add to the mix as well, but that’s the subject of another post.
Last, but not least, here is the porch alcove with the pretty arch and the view from their sliding glass door. This, no doubt, was the site for many philosophical ponderings. If only we could somehow have recorded the sage mutterings for posterity.
To wrap things up (and since there is no more photography) here is a little interview from the macho traveler himself.
What was your overall impression of the Clear Lake resort?
It’s a rustic resort… not completely luxurious, but much better than camping. It was clean, not pristine. Historic, but updated. The staff was super cool. And there were a lot of flies… everywhere. You sure can’t beat the location, though. It was about 200 feet from the water, and it had its own dock and launch ramp.
Do you think this resort would appeal to all travelers?
At the time of year we went (September), I think it would be a great vacation for men and boys who want to fish or explore the lake. Anyone who loves the “back-woods” country feel would really enjoy it.
What did you think of the grounds?
Everything was clean and well-maintained. The grass was very green and the buildings were in good shape. The pool was really nice (rectangular and large) and a good temperature. There was a jacuzzi, too. The dock and launch were up for repairs in October.
Anything fun to do at the resort itself?
There was a playground for the kids and you would be able to watch them from your porch. I saw a horseshoe pit, basketball court and tennis court (I think). There was a pool table in the main building.
Would you go back?
Yes.
And there you have it. Straight from my stout-hearted man.
