Welcome to Los Angeles – a city known for bright lights, year-round sunshine and of course, Hollywood. After meeting the group, you’ll make your way to Santa Barbara – but not before a visit to Malibu en route. Rugged beaches are Malibu’s main attractions (keep an eye out for surfers in the waves as you pass-through). Once in Santa Barbara, you’ll settle in for dinner with the group.
After breakfast, it’s time to explore Santa Barbara. Your highlight of the day will be a visit to the Old Mission, one of Santa Barbara’s major landmarks, which was established in 1786. Here you’ll find a grand church, a museum, a gift shop, a cemetery and twelve acres of surrounding gardens. After immersing yourself in the Mission’s history, you’ll be free to explore the Old Town at your leisure this afternoon.
After a wine tasting and lunch in the heart of the Santa Rita Hills, you’ll move on to Cambria – swinging by San Luis Obispo County along the way. Much more than just a pit stop on the legendary Highway 1, this area has plenty of beautiful beaches and old world charm – and there’s even the chance to spot humpback whales here from May to October.
Today you’ll visit Hearst Castle, which was designed by California’s first female architect: Julia Morgan. Finished in 1947, the castle was built as the home of William Randolph Hearst (known for developing the famous Hearst Communications). Don’t forget your camera – this private residence is truly impressive! This afternoon, a classic Californian coastal drive is on the agenda as you make your way to Big Sur State Park. Beautiful and unspoiled, this famous park is high on many travellers’ must-see lists – and you’ll see why at McWay Falls and Ragged Point. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the skunks, deer and raccoons that call the area home!
Wake up to Monterey, a city that’s best known for historic Cannery Row and its old sardine-canning factories (immortalised in a John Steinbeck novel of the same name). You’ll pay a visit to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve today. With its dramatic rocky coastline, it’s the perfect place to enjoy wilderness walks both short and long. If you’re lucky, you may see some of the resident sea lions frolicking in the sea below.
The last leg of your journey takes us upwards to San Francisco. After a morning stop at Santa Cruz, you’ll drop by the Harley Farms goat dairy in Pescadero for a farm visit and cheese tasting session. Half Moon Bay will be your final stop. This small city is known for its vast beaches, great surf and views of the Rancho Corral de Tierra area. Once in San Francisco, you’ll say farewell to the group.
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Advertised prices are person twin share, tour only and correct at time of publication and are subject to availability and change at any time without notification due to fluctuations in charges, taxes and currency. Offer is valid on new bookings only. ^Bonus is included in the advertised price. Book and pay in full 60 days prior to the trip’s departure. In the event a date is unavailable at the time of booking, an alternative departure date will be offered. Other conditions apply. Please contact your personal travel manager for full terms and conditions.
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