California Coast, Mountains & Deserts

After collecting your hire car from downtown San Francisco, hit the road to Napa. Indulge in the beauty and flavour of Napa Valley with a day filled with wine and gourmet delights. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch paired with local wines, then finish the day with a scenic sunset over the vineyards—Napa Valley is a place where delicious food, fine wine, and breathtaking views come together perfectly.

Next, it's time to trade the city lights and vineyard delights for some starlit skies in Yosemite National Park. Feel like you’ve stepped into another world with towering granite cliffs, serene lakes, and the iconic cascading waters of Yosemite Falls. Take a hike (or just enjoy the view!) at Yosemite Valley, get cosy with nature at Tunnel View, and don’t miss the unforgettable sunrise over Half Dome.

Today you’ll experience the extreme beauty of Death Valley National Park, where vast salt flats and colourful rock formations await. Start early with a visit to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, then head to Artist’s Palette to marvel at the vibrant desert landscape. You’ll enjoy a unique overnight stay at the Ranch in Death Valley tonight where you can watch the golden sunset over dramatic mountains - an unforgettable experience.

After all that nature and drive through San Bernadino County, it’s time to unwind in style. Palm Springs is your desert oasis. Think cool mid-century modern vibes, poolside relaxation, and stunning desert views. Stroll down Palm Canyon Drive, check out the famous Joshua Tree National Park nearby, or just chill out in your chic hotel.

Ready for a wow-worthy drive? Today you cruise the Palms to Pines Highway. Stop for lunch at The Paradise Valley Café before heading onto Temecula, where charming vineyards and small-town vibes await. Explore Old Town Temecula for a spot of boutique shopping.

Next stop: sun, surf, and so much fun! And it’s only a short drive hugging the stunning Pacific coastline. San Diego’s laid-back vibe is the perfect mix of beaches and big-city energy. Hang out at La Jolla Cove, take a stroll through Balboa Park, or take a walk on the wild side at San Diego Zoo. And, of course, don’t leave without catching some waves or just kicking back at one of the city’s world-famous beaches.

Finally, it’s time to wrap up your California adventure in the City of Angels. From the Hollywood Walk of Fame to stunning beaches like Venice and Santa Monica, LA is all about living the dream. Snap a selfie at the Hollywood Sign, get cultured at the Getty Museum, or find some zen in Malibu. And no trip to LA is complete without indulging in some delicious food, whether you're at an iconic taco truck or a trendy brunch spot.

So, there you have it: 15 days of California perfection. Today you’ll return your rental car before departing LAX for the UK. From San Francisco's iconic landmarks to the sparkling beaches of Los Angeles, this road trip has everything you need to make memories that’ll last a lifetime.