Holiday season is upon us, which means it’s the perfect time for a winter escape. And if you were looking for a little bit of inspiration, look no further: Travel + Leisure has officially named Idyllwild the number one spot in their list of “Top 15 Mountain Towns in California.” If you’ve ever visited this local gem, then you can probably guess all the reasons why. If not, read below. Spoiler alert: their mayor is a dog. No, really.
Idyllwild, a nature lover’s dream
Nestled high up at 5,400 feet in the San Jacinto Mountains, this cozy town offers a breath of fresh air for anyone looking to escape the city. You can spend hours beneath the towering cedar, pine, and fir trees at the Idyllwild Nature Center. Alternatively, take a hike along the Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, the local culinary scene also hits the spot. Stop for a slice of pie at Idyllwild Pizza Company or grab a classic diner breakfast at the Red Kettle.
A great destination for art lovers
The town charms visitors with a distinct artistic soul. A stroll down the walkable main drag, North Circle Drive, reveals many beautiful art galleries. Stop by the shops filled with local pottery, glasswork, and jewelry. It’s also known for hosting festivals and shooting films at its scenic surroundings. Picture it as the kind of place where you can lose track of time just browsing – and sometimes, we all need to just lose track of time for a bit.
If you’re thinking “sold!” already, wait until you hear about their local government!
Mayor Max III, the ‘goodest boy’
Idyllwild is famous for having a Golden Retriever for a mayor. The town is unincorporated, meaning it has no human local government. In 2012, a local animal rescue launched a mayoral election as a fundraiser. The result was a dynasty of very good boys. The current officeholder is Mayor Max III, who spends his days making public appearances, attending local events, and generally ensuring the “pawsitivity” of locals and visitors alike.
Whether you’re there for the hiking, the art, or just to shake paws with the mayor, it’s easy to see why Idyllwild recently ranked #1 in “Top 15 Mountain Towns in California.”