Classic California

California conjures visions of Hollywood stars and surfers, but that's just the surface; from soulful San Francisco, Yosemite's giant redwoods, endless sandy beaches, charming coastal towns and LA family fun, the Golden State is one of great contrasts.

1. Days 1-4: San Francisco

   Starting in the incredible iconic city of San Francisco, spend three nights exploring the streets of Nobb Hill, wandering Haight-Ashbury and chowing down on the freshest seafood around at Fisherman’s Wharf. Hop on board an iconic cable car, cycle over the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito, visit Alcatraz Island, dine out in Chinatown or head out to the bay on a speedboat for a unique view of the city skyline. There’s plenty to do here, all certain to delight travellers of any age.

   Accommodation: The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco (3 nights)

2. Days 4-7: Yosemite National Park

   The next day, pick up your SUV and drive through goldrush country to Yosemite National Park to stay in a log-cabin among the Redwood trees, from where you can have a cook-out in the evening, admire nature from a hot tub and spot deer and black bears if you're lucky. Spend your time in this beautiful National Park hiking to Glacier Point for sublime views or cycling through flower-strewn meadows spotting wildlife as you go. There are also opportunities for privately guided hikes as well as trolley tours, that take you around the park giving you the best glances of each of the most famous sights.

   Accommodation: The Redwoods in Yosemite (3 nights)

3. Days 7-9: Monterey and Carmel

   Next stop is picturesque Carmel Valley Ranch. Families will love the abundance of activities on offer here, and couples will enjoy the beautiful spa. During your stay, you can go horse riding, have a bucket-and-spade day in Carmel-by-the-Sea, bike the 17-mile drive around Pebble Beach or kayak around the kelp forests in Monterey. We have included a whale watching trip for you in Monterey so you can head out to try and spot whales and dolphins commonly seen along the coast.

   Accommodation: Carmel Valley Ranch (2 nights)

4. Days 9-11: Santa Barbara

   Next, follow the iconic Pacific Highway down Big Sur - snake through sea cliffs, beach towns and redwood forests as you head south to the Spanish mission town of Santa Barbara. Tucked between the Santa Ynez mountains, wine region and the ocean, its Mediterranean vibe has given Santa Barbara the title of the 'American Riviera'. Foodies will love the vast amount of incredible restaurants; from fine-dining to open-air late night food markets as well as the urban wine trail.

   Accommodation: Hotel Californian (2 nights)

5. Days 11-14: Santa Monica

   End in Los Angeles at renowned beachfront hotel Shutters on the Beach. Spend your final few days in California soaking up the sunshine on the beach, shopping until you drop at Santa Monica Place, strolling the boardwalk and farmers markets, or head into LA for the day. You might enjoy hiking to the Hollywood sign at during the day or at sunset to see LA sparkling at night.  We have included a Universal Studios VIP Experience, a wonderful day out for adults or children alike.

   Accommodation: Shutters on the Beach (3 nights)

San Francisco, Yosemite, Carmel, Santa Barbara, Santa Monica