Royal baker Claire Ptak’s ultimate guide to Marin County California
The California native reveals her secrets to Marin County’s west coast
ucked away in Marin County lies Point Reyes, a small cape very different from much of California. Backdropped by towering cliffscapes, crisp-blue seas and quaint farmlands, it is home to some of the most talented artisans in the whole of the state. The thriving community and magnificent natural wonders make it a very special place.
EAT
My favourite restaurant in the tiny town of Inverness. The menu is so good. It is the perfect hang-out spot for a glass of wine, locally sourced seafood and, of course, oysters!
If you’re looking for a sweet treat, Bovine is a staple in the community. It’s a from-scratch bakery that’s been around for more than 25 years now. It’s always been there in my life — I was even born above it. When I was 15, I got my first job there. I learnt how to make croissants and did all the 4am shifts.
When we go to West Marin, we always go here. It’s another seafood restaurant (sorry vegans) and right on Tomales Bay. Sit there, order heaps of fish tacos and drink loads of rosé while watching sailboats on the water.
DRINKS AND DANCING
This saloon bar is always fun. I go here for tequila shots after cooking dinner with friends on the beach. Don’t miss the picture of King Charles hanging up — he came out here about 15 years ago with Camilla for a tour of Point Reyes’ organic farms and they had a pint in the bar. The same bar me and my friends have gone to since we were 21! It’s such a weird coincidence because I’ve made his son’s wedding cake and he’s actually been to my small town.
SHOPPING
This wild fermentation company is amazing. I like to stock up on their sauerkraut, sauces and organic preserves. They’re opening a shop in Point Reyes Station soon.
Monk Estate
You can buy pottery made from local artists, Victorian jewellery and antique pieces. The owner is a collector with an incredible eye.
WHERE TO STAY
Seek out this company for a fantastic range of houses to book for a weekend — or the whole summer
ART AND CULTURE
My friend Mariah has a gallery called JB Blunk Estate. Her dad was JB Blunk, a prolific artist who built the house. She shows his work and that of other local artists.
My parents really encouraged us to read growing up — we didn’t have a TV! This is a small indie bookshop that also holds a lot of events. It’s a hub for the community.
Steeped in Point Reyes’ natural, artisan setting, Claire, top right, works on her book at the JB Blunk Estate
/ Violet Cakes by Claire PtakRELAXING
The national parks are stunning. The peninsula juts out above San Francisco Bay and it’s a great destination for whale watching. Go out there to see the migration of humpback and grey whales and dolphins.
Hiking and foraging at Chimney Rock
My perfect day here would consist of foraging for wild blackberries and huckleberries — there’s great porcini and chanterelle mushrooms, too. I do this every time I go home, my daughter Francis loves it. We will then bake a big blackberry pie for my mom.
SECRET SPOT
Tomales Point
It’s so peaceful. There are herds of tule elk and a beautiful old northern California barn. Go really far to the tip and you’ll feel like you’re floating above the ocean.
‘Love is a Pink Cake’, by Claire Ptak, is out now (£27; Vintage)