OFF THE BEATEN TRACK CALIFORNIA

An Adventurous California Trip

California

Duration: 14 nights

Enjoy a California honeymoon that’s full of adventure while still allowing plenty of time to take in its big hitters, from LA and San Francisco to beautiful national parks - as well as some perfect Californian beaches. Drive along the iconic Highway One in between walking, horse riding and rafting in Yosemite and Sequoia national parks, sea kayaking in Morro Bay and surfing in Laguna Beach.

Perfect forCouples and honeymooners looking for a vacation in California that’s full of adventure, without missing out on the iconic sights of the USA’s Golden State.

In the knowIf you’re less of a beach lover and would prefer to see more of the USA’s spectacular national parks, substitute the coast for the national parks of Utah, for memorable hiking and mountain biking, and out-of-this-world desert adventures.

Best for

Landscapes & Scenery
Road Trip
Wildlife & Nature
Adventure

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Itinerary details

2 nightsSAN FRANCISCO

Start your California vacation in beautiful San Francisco (flowers in your hair optional). This bohemian city is packed with gems, from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the designer shops and attractive eateries of Ghirardelli Square in Fisherman’s Wharf on the waterfront (don’t forget to sample the delicious Ghirardelli chocolate), not to mention the beautiful parks and woods on the doorstep, where scenic hiking and biking are a must. The hip Hotel Zetta is in the heart of the action, just a few blocks away from the buzzing Union Square, and after a day’s exploring, relax with a cocktail in the elegant bar.

3 nightsYOSEMITE

Pick up your car in San Francisco and make your way to your first USA national park, Yosemite, a incredible kaleidoscope of granite boulders, thundering waterfalls, glassy lakes and lush green forests that have attracted adventurers, artists and photographers for centuries. This is simply a magical spot for hiking, mountain biking and horse riding. You can also raft the rapids of the Merced River, stopping to have lunch and take in the views, go rock climbing with a guide, or go canoeing on the beautiful Bass Lake.

2 nightsSEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK

From one incredible national park to another, your next stop is Sequoia National Park, so-named because of its ancient forests of giant sequoia trees. These impressive icons are some of the largest and oldest trees in the world, and can soar to over 8,000 feet high. And there’s more, as well as the sequoias: from deep canyons and caves to rushing rivers and jagged mountain peaks, the diversity of the park begs to be explored. Put on your hiking boots and lose yourself along the irresistible winding trails and climbing routes. Rest your weary feet at the cosy Wuksachi Lodge, in the Giant Forest area in the heart of the park, which utilises its natural surroundings and brings the outside in with its attractive features of granite and oak and cedar woods. You can walk from the lodge to the granite dome of Moro Rock, two miles away, where you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views.

2 nightsMORRO BAY

Morro Bay, on California’s Central Coast, showcases stunning scenery and a wealth of ways to enjoy it. Discover the coastline by going kayaking from the marina with an expert local guide, and spot blue herons, seals and otters. The bay is protected by a four-mile-long sandspit, making kayaking here ideal for beginners and experts alike - this is one of the best kayaking spots in California. Alternatively, set out on a guided nature hike or hop on two wheels to take in the coastal bike route along the Pacific Coast Highway, and enjoy the sea breeze from the ocean. If the Napa Valley has given you a taste for fine wines, sample some more at the vineyards dotted around the area. Stay at the Anderson Inn, which sits by the beach, and overlooks the harbour, guaranteeing lovely views as well as easy access to everything Morro Bay has to offer.

2 nightsLOS ANGELES

Drive on down Highway One to the bright lights of Los Angeles, to soak up this world-famous city’s glitz and glamour. Check into The London in West Hollywood, a chic bolthole that epitomises LA’s unique style, before heading out to shop on Rodeo Drive and look out for your favourite stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. If you’re still craving an adventure hit, go for a hike in Runyon Canyon, a 130-acre park which can be reached just a couple of blocks away from Hollywood Boulevard – where you might spot a star or two keeping fit! You’ll also be rewarded with panoramic views over the city, the famous Hollywood sign and, on clear days, the Pacific Ocean.

3 nightsLAGUNA BEACH

Laguna Beach is a sun-kissed gem on the Californian coast, its attractive laid-back vibe making it popular with everyone, from surfers and sun worshippers to artists and writers. Head out on the water with a surfboard to experience the waves for yourself, or make the most of the 20,000 acres of trails in Laguna and the coastal canyons of the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, around rocky ridges, waterfalls and lakes. Imbibe the beach spirit at the historic Casa Laguna, perched high on a cliff, with its attractive Moorish-style interiors and beautiful views over the ocean and Catalina Island. After all that action and adventure, indulge in a massage in the spa or enjoy some yoga on the beach, before settling in at a waterfront café, overlooking the sea.