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California's Classic Railroads
11 DAYS FROM £1331
Ride California's classic railroads through lush wine country, towering Redwoods and stunning mountains, with visits to San Francisco and the magnificent Yosemite National Park.
Included Highlights
San Francisco City sightseeing
Sausalito
Napa Valley Wine Train with included lunch
Santa Rosa
Korbel Winery Tour & tasting
Fort Bragg
Skunk Train
Sacramento City sightseeing
Sacramento RiverTrain with barbecue lunch
Yosemite National Park
17-Mile Drive
Carmel
Monterey City sightseeing
Roaring Camp Railroad Excursion to Bear Mountain
Your Price Includes
Flights: UK - San Francisco - UK
Accommodation on tour in twin room with private facilities
Meals on tour 2 lunches (L)
Professional tour director on tour and local representative's assistance at other times
Porterage at hotels during tour (for one suitcase per person)
Transfers between overseas airport and hotels
All local and airport taxes/service charges
Single share option no supplement to pay
Holiday Itinerary
DAY 1: UK - San Francisco.
Fly to San Francisco where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for two nights.
DAY 2: San Francisco. Included sightseeing.
Regarded by many as the USA's most beautiful city, San Francisco is a feast for the senses and is packed with famous landmarks and scenic attractions. This morning, during our city tour see the glorious Golden Gate Bridge, colourful China Town, pretty Fisherman's Wharf and elegant Nob Hill. Since the afternoon is at leisure why not ride the steep streets on a trundling tram or catch a cruise around the bay to wallow in the magnificent views over the sparkling coastline.
DAY 3: San Francisco - Sausalito - Santa Rosa. Napa Valley Wine Train.
This morning, your adventure continues in Sausalito, the jewel of San Francisco Bay. This picture-postcard artisan's village is known for its 'free spirits', winding streets and colourful houseboats moored in Richardson Bay. There's time to amble around its charming centre, drink in the breathtaking views over the bay and browse the town's offbeat boutiques and galleries. Later, climb aboard the sleek Napa Valley Wine Train for a scenic ride through the sublime Napa Valley countryside, including an elegant 3-course lunch. Sit back and soak up the splendid passing vistas - sun-drenched valleys, wildflower meadows and the rolling vineyards and grand mansions of many of the region's most notable wineries. After taking your leave of this lovely train, your next stop is Santa Rosa, the largest city in California's wine country. (L)
DAY 4: Santa Rosa - Korbel Winery - Fort Bragg.
The morning is yours to explore this charming city, which sits at the gateway to the Sonoma Valley. Meander around its historic, tree-lined Railroad Square to see the quaint Northwestern Pacific Railroad depot, and do the rounds of the buzzing coffee houses, antique shops and fine restaurants. Why not drop into the Charles M Schulz Museum, a shrine to the creator of the Charlie Brown comic strip? Schulz lived in Santa Rosa from 1958 until his death in 2000, and the museum houses the workshop where he brought his loveable Peanuts Gang characters and Snoopy to life. This afternoon, we make our way to Korbel Winery, where world-famous Korbel Champagne, the favourite of many US Presidents, is produced. Set in the historic Russian River Valley, our visit to this stately winery includes a fascinating tour of the barrel-filled antique vaults of its Champagne Cellar, together with a tasting session. Later we journey along the historic Highway 1 for your overnight stay in the coastal town of Fort Bragg.
DAY 5: Fort Bragg - Skunk Train excursion - Sacramento. Included sightseeing.
A treat awaits today, with an excursion on the historic Skunk Train, winding through California's mighty Redwood forests. Built in 1885 as a logging railroad, this historic line got its name from the smell of its steam engines, and winds through the spectacular Coastal Mountains before following the Noyo River Canyon. After clambering aboard the restored rail cars, you'll travel through towering Redwoods, gorgeous open meadows and across wooden 'trestle' bridges - all with plenty of time to capture the views on camera. Next it's on to Sacramento, the former gold rush town and now California's capital, where you'll enjoy a sightseeing tour of its fascinating Old Town, quaint downtown area and fine Governor's Mansion and State Capitol Building.
DAY 6: Sacramento - Sacramento RiverTrain - California State Railroad Museum - Sacramento.
Today enjoy a real western-style adventure on your excursion on the Sacramento RiverTrain. Painted in sparkling gold to celebrate the area's gold rush heritage, this wonderful train follows the majestic Sacramento River, California's longest waterway. As you travel, you'll be entertained by Wild West characters and stop for a barbecue lunch on the riverbank. Keep a lookout for the famed bandit den of Robber's Roost - it might just herald a spine-tingling Western gunfight! A highlight of the trip is when we pass over the 8,000 feet long Fremont Trestle, the longest wooden bridge in the west. Afterwards, visit the California State Railroad Museum in Old Sacramento to see its beautifully restored railcars and steam locomotives, all of which conjure up the bygone magic of Californian railroading. (L)
DAY 7: Sacramento - Yosemite National Park - Merced.
Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite National Park is one of the USA's first wilderness parks and an awe-inspiring, 1,200 square-mile montage of deep valleys, soaring peaks, ancient giant sequoias and crashing waterfalls. Today, you'll have time to savour its jaw-dropping beauty, perhaps taking an open-air tram ride, renting a pedal bike, joining a trail ride or picnicking amidst what is one of the planet's greatest natural wonderlands. Make sure to visit the Ansel Adams Studio, homage to the legendary Park images captured by its best-known photographer.
DAY 8: Merced - 17-Mile Drive - Monterey. Included sightseeing.
Today, we switch attention to California's picturesque coast, with a visit to the lovely town of Carmel, a popular haunt for celebrities, writers and artists. En route to Monterey, we take the legendary 17-Mile Drive, a scenic rollercoaster of a coastal road that passes stunning landmarks such as the famous Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill PGA golf courses, Cypress Point, and the Lone Cypress - a single tree perched on wave-lashed rocks at Pebble Beach. On arrival in Monterey, enjoy a sightseeing tour around the town's historic Fisherman's Wharf and Cannery Row, made famous by novelist John Steinbeck. Afterwards, there's time to explore its colourful shops, observe the sea lions and otters in the Bay and watch the magical underwater life on show at the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.
DAY 9: Monterey - Roaring Camp Railroad - San Francisco.
A trip on a 100-year-old steam locomotive on the Roaring Camp Railroad beckons today. This narrow gauge railroad runs to the summit of Bear Mountain, clickety-clacking over 'trestle' bridges and through soaring Redwoods. Explore Roaring Camp, an atmospheric recreation of a 19th century logging town, complete with olde-worlde opera house, sawmill, general store and a tiny covered bridge. This afternoon, you'll travel back to San Francisco.
DAY 10: San Francisco.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK.
DAY 11: Home landing in the UK.
Maximum elevation on this tour is 8,000 ft.
Check prices and availability for this holiday
Accommodation on Tour
San Francisco: Cathedral Hill; Santa Rosa: Best Western Garden Inn; Fort Bragg: Best Western Vista Manor; Sacramento: Hawthorne Suites; Merced: Courtyard by Marriott; Monterey: Days Inn.
Trains
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View Holiday PhotosNapa Valley Wine Train
The Napa Valley Wine Train is a throwback to a bygone era of rail travel, this splendid train carries you on a memorable three-hour trip to the quaint village of St Helena and back. Enjoy an elegant lunch, as you soak up the stunning country vistas.
Holiday Extensions
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View Holiday PhotosCalifornia's Classic Railroads + Hawaii - 7 Extra nights from £600
Extend your holiday with an additional week on the stunning beaches of the Hawaiian island of Oahu. Visit Pearl Harbour, Royal Iolani Palace, shop at the busy International Market or simply relax on the sands of Waikiki Beach. On day 10 of your tour transfer to the airport for your flight to Honolulu and your hotel, the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani for the next seven nights. On day 17 transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home.
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View Holiday PhotosCalifornia's Classic Railroads + Las Vegas - 3 Extra nights from £169
Add a final flourish to your Californian adventure with three extra nights in exhilarating Las Vegas, known as 'Sin City'. Try your luck at its flashy casinos on the world-famous 'Strip', or take a trip to discover the Hoover Dam, one of engineering wonders of the world.
On day 10 transfer to the airport for your flight to Las Vegas and your hotel, the Imperial Palace for the next three nights. -
View Holiday PhotosCalifornia's Classic Railroads + San Francisco - 11 DAYS FROM £1320
Make the most of your time in California by treating yourself to two extra nights in beautiful San Francisco. Explore the city's diverse neighbourhoods on its famous trams or visit the fascinating prison island Alcatraz.
On day 10 remain at your hotel, the Cathedral Hill for the next two nights. On day 12 transfer to airport for your overnight flight home.
Accommodation on Extensions
California's Classic Railroads + Hawaii - 7 Extra nights from £600
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View Holiday PhotosSheraton Princess Kaiulani
The Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Hotel offers a glimpse of Hawaii's royal past in the heart of Waikiki Beach. Once home to Hawaii's Princess Victoria Kawekiu Lunalilo Kalaninuiahilapalapa Ka'iulani, the hotel houses historic photographs of the princess and the royal monarchy throughout the property.
Location: Next door to the International Marketplace and King's Village. Across Kalakaua Avenue with its wonderful array of shops and restaurants, with easy access to 3 sister hotels and famous Waikiki Beach. A short walk left along the beachfront (ideal for sunset) will take you to Kapiolani Park then on to Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium.
Facilities: Swimming pool with free chairs and sunbeds; restaurant; bar with pool service; free pool and beach towels; shop; internet access; lounge; laundry; room service; concierge; lifts.
Prices includes: Room with private facilities; air-conditioning; coffee-maker; cable TV; clock radio; hairdryer; iron/ironing board; minifridge; safe (daily charge).
California's Classic Railroads + Las Vegas - 3 Extra nights from £169
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View Holiday PhotosImperial Palace
The Imperial Palace comprises contemporary towers featuring an ornate and traditional Asian style. The hotel offers a friendly atmosphere, great entertainment, dining, shopping and everything you need for a complete holiday.
Location: In the centre of the 'Strip' the hotel affords the best location to enjoy the non-stop entertainment and vibrant energy of the 'City that never sleeps'.
Facilities: Beauty salon; fitness centre; hot tub and health club; outdoor swimming pool; entertainment shows; 9 restaurants; bar; concierge services; casino; classic car collection.
Price includes: Room with private facilities; telephone; cable television; pay-per-view movies; hairdryer; ironing board; iron.
California's Classic Railroads + San Francisco - 11 DAYS FROM £1320
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View Holiday PhotosCathedral Hill
A warm welcome awaits you here, where you can enjoy the ambience, hospitality and service established in 1960.
Location: Set back from Van Ness Avenue and Geary, the hotel is three blocks from the California Street cable car line and six blocks from the concert venues at the Civic Centre. Regular buses run past the hotel for easy and cheap access into the Union Square, whilst a variety of restaurants are nearby.
Facilities: Outdoor heated pool; laundry service; 24-hour fitness room; Gift and Sundries Shop; hair salon; Jack Tar bar & grill; coffee shop; safety deposit boxes in reception.
Price includes: Room with private facilities; cable/satellite TV; air-conditioning; hairdryer; iron/ironing board; coffee-maker.
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NO HIDDEN EXTRAS:
All prices shown include ALL compulsory charges (Fuel Supplement, Air Passenger Duty & Flight Supplement where applicable)
Book with confidence: We are members of ABTA and all our holidays are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme. |
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