CALIFORNIA H iring a car in the states is somewhat of a necessity, but it bestows on you the freedom to explore so much more than you would by simply staying in one major city. San Francisco is an excellent starting place for the perfect Cali road trip, so buckle up and let’s begin. San Francisco Flying into San Francisco or Oakland airport puts you fairly equidistant from the centre of the city. Either pick up a car at the airport or somewhere in the city is equally as convenient. If you want to take in the sights of the city for a few days (and we suggest you do), you can seek out the hidden gems tucked between the infamous tourist attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39. Napa After a few days in San Francisco, you’ll likely feel ready to head out of the city towards greener pastures, and what could be more tempting than Napa Valley, the home of Californian wine. Stay for a few nights in one of the beautiful guest houses in Napa, or the surrounding towns such as Calistoga. Park up as you won’t need the car for a few days (excellent news for those drinking) and take the local shuttle bus to any of the wine tastings offered in the multitude of wineries available to you. We highly recommend Chateau Montelena and Castello di Amorosa for the view, plus Robert Mondavi for the modernist architecture and delectable vintage. Yosemite National Park Once you’ve had your swill of the good stuff, we suggest heading south to Yosemite National Park. The drive will take approximately four hours, but once you get there, we promise it will be oh so rewarding. Cascading hills and open roads lined with the tallest fir, pine and sequoia trees you have ever seen will provide you with one of the most beautiful driving experiences of your life. For those who have the time, you could easily set up camp here for a week or more and enjoy some astounding (and at times challenging) hikes. For those who are more pressed for time, the park is vehicle friendly and you can drive to the top of Glacier Point for the most breathtaking views of the valley below. Be sure to wrap up warm, the air is a little brisk at this altitude. By night, the wonders of nature don’t cease, and after the most glorious of sunsets, you’ll find yourself under a blanket of stars (which are best enjoyed from an outdoor hot tub – a luxury, maybe, but totally worth it!). Finish the night with a S’more cooked on an open fire and you’ll be forgiven for thinking you just experienced something close to heavenly. Amazing Destinations 13
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