Our research trip to the Carmel/Monterey area included a beautiful drive along the Big Sur State Route 1, Monterey Bay’s 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach on the Monterey Peninsula, a stop at The Lone Cypress Tree, two visits to San Carlos de Borremeo, a walk along the white sandy beach at Monterey State Park, a stroll through Cannery Row and dinner at Mission Ranch Restaurant. A drive along the countryside’s vineyards sparked the setting for Dawn’s Light in Monterey.
Story Feature from Seek a Safe Harbor
The backbone of ancient mountains stretched as far as she could see in either direction. Trees of fantastic shapes rose from cliffs above the sea, twisted and flat-topped by centuries of strong winds. According to one of Fray Serra’s letters, these cypress trees were saplings at the time of Christ’s birth.
A sailing vessel entered the harbor in full rig, sails billowing, with the sea breaking before its bow. How many times had she watched Father return from a voyage? Tears blurred her eyes. She wanted to run headlong across the sand to meet him.
