Filoli in Fall

Recently my aunt, husband, and I visited Filoli in Woodside on a clear, sunny afternoon to experience the estate in fall. We drove through San Francisco and headed south (rather than driving from the east via the San Mateo bridge), so got a closer look at the Crystal Springs Reservoir. We ate a quick picnic under the oaks to keep our strength up, and then started our self-guided tour.

Grand entrance begonias and wisteria with seed pods

My aunt and I have been working our way through the seasons at Filoli over the past several years (See Filoli in Winter, Spring, and Summer).

Sunken garden

Garden House

Shady terrace

Filoli still had plenty of flowers for the late-summer to early-fall transition. The borders by the sunken garden were filled with oranges and blues, the rose garden still had roses, and the begonia beds were beautiful.

Orange and blue flower beds

Swath of begonias

Rose garden

On the day we visited, preparations were underway for an evening wedding. We had the pleasure of catching views of the bride and her attendants, and the groomsmen strolling about (apparently slip on shoes and no socks is a thing). We could hear snatches of classical and dance music coming from different directions, as both musical groups warmed up.

Music room

View of the garden

Reception room

The house looked ready for crisp fall days. Rooms were set up for family activities such as cards and board games in the study; a cozy dinner in the dining room; and an impromptu sing-along in the music room. The kitchen suite, with its multiple pantries and ample storage, looked ready to prepare hearty food for the family, or delicate hors d'oeuvres for the grand ballroom. Several commanding floral arrangements caught our attention.

Cozy dining for eight

Grand ballroom

Floral arrangement for early fall

Interesting use of a flower tassel

Outside the fall light filtered through the leaves, illuminated the flowers, and bathed everything in a glow. The air was warm, with an occasional cool breeze, and we could see the early signs of leaves and grasses turning to fall colors.

Exploring beyond the gate

We stopped at the gift shop on the way out to purchase some apple butter, and admire the rows of succulents in shades of blues, greens and pinks.

Appealing succulent starters

Afterward we headed for the East Bay for dinner and ice cream creations at Fentons Creamery and Restaurant, and great conversation. We've achieved our goal of visiting Filoli in all seasons, and look forward to revisiting in any season. Plus, we've discovered a fifth season at Filoli (Holidays at Filoli) and the newly opened Estate Trail.

Crystal Springs Reservoir