I was working with a company in Silicon Valley and wanted to see what happened if you lived west of the 280 freeway, rather than commuting up or down it. And I discovered Lea's place on the La Honda Road. It was an amazing find. Just 35 minutes from Palo Alto on a commute like something from a car advert, you wind and wind through the redwoods to this place, a little lodge on a creek, next to the owner's house. And at the weekends, it's a 20 minute drive the opposite way to the coast, and beautiful San Gregorio beach, a quite spectacular place to walk and meditate, surrounded by driftwood and crashing waves. But take note – you need to enjoy driving on windy roads (which are dark at night). The location is surprisingly private given you sit beside the owner's house, with your own deck and the noise of the creek running by. It's a very special spot that I hope to return to. La Honda itself is full of kind and charming people who live a pace that should be an inspiration to the rest. I met some great people, chatting outside the store in the mornings. The space is stylish too - a very high ceiling and a good useful kitchen. I'd really recommend it.