Glen Ellen: outdoor adventures

Jack London lived in Glen Ellen from 1909 to his death in 1916, spending his non-writing time building his home, Wolf House (which burned in 1913 before its completion), and developing his Beauty Ranch. Outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs who yearn to spend time escaping urban life can, like London, find plenty to do in Glen Ellen, including a day’s worth of activities in Jack London State Historic Park alone.

Get there: 52 miles from San Francisco on Highway 101 to Lakeville Road and State Route 116 East.

Doze: The Gaige House has luxury rooms and suites among lush gardens on the banks of Calabazas Creek. 13540 Arnold Drive; (800) 935-0237; www.gaige.com. Rates start at $275.

Dine: After a day in the outdoors, stop at the Fig Cafe for a thincrust pizza or cassoulet — or swing by on the weekend for brunch.

13690 Arnold Drive; (707) 938-2130; www. thefigcafe.com.

Do: See what made Jack London fall in love with the area at Jack London State Historic Park. The 1,400 acres include more than 10 miles of trails, a museum, Wolf House and Beauty Ranch.

Good to know: Spending time in the outdoors requires casual comfort, and even restaurants here allow you to maintain casual comfort. Leave the fancy clothes at home.