Val Zavala

* Co-anchor of “Life & Times Tonight,” which airs weekdays at 7 p.m. on KCET.

Trail Mix: I’m lucky to live close to the Hollywood reservoir. I check on the progress of the huge underground water tank they’re building and wonder if the adjacent hills will ever look natural again. Then I choose a trail. The view of the Valley at the end of Wonder View Drive is among the best, especially after a rain. I also love to head to the farmers market in Studio City.

Oldies but Goodies: If I’m in the mood for spelunking through antique shops, Magnolia Boulevard in Burbank is my destination. If clothes are calling, I head for three resale boutiques on Ventura Boulevard near the Coldwater curve.

Good Eats: Chez Nous in Toluca Lake or Urth Cafe on Melrose are great places for a casual lunch or dinner with a girlfriend. Urth Cafe is near the Bodhi Tree bookstore, which is always a great place to browse. A good conversation about work and men, followed by a rented movie is enough to keep me happy.

Cafe, Estilo Latino: Espresso Mi Cultura is one of my favorite places. It’s on Hollywood Boulevard, east of the 101. Ramon, the owner, has created a richly colored cafe-bookstore-musical venue for the artsy crowd, Latino style. The coffees and desserts are perfecto.

Angeleno History: I try to check off at least one L.A. landmark each weekend, such as the Gamble House in Pasadena. A spectacular 1908 Craftsman with tours that leave every 20 minutes between noon and 3 p.m. on weekends. A must-see.

Pssst: Sunday afternoons I really mellow out with a visit to one of the best-kept secrets in L.A.--the Serra Retreat off Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu. At the end of a 10-minute drive up a windy road, you’ll come to a Catholic convent-conference center. It is woven with lovely garden paths, and a dozen benches, alcoves, balconies and quiet spots to sit, read or meditate. Be sure to walk out on the promontory for a view of the sunset. As long as you’re quiet, you’re welcome.