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California's Classic Railroads
11 DAYS FROM £1399
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 worth £180
San Francisco City sightseeing
Sausalito
Napa Valley Wine Train with lunch
Santa Rosa
Korbel Winery Tour & tasting
Fort Bragg
Skunk Train
Sacramento City sightseeing
Jamestown
Sierra Railroad Dinner Train with sunset dinner
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 a twin room with private facilities
Meals on tour 1 lunch (L) and 1 dinner (D)
Services of a tour director on tour and local representative 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.
Regarded by many as the USA's most beautiful city, San Francisco 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. There's time to amble around its charming centre, enjoy the breathtaking views over the bay and browse the 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.
Today 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.
A treat awaits today, with an excursion on the historic Skunk Train to Willits, 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 stepping aboard the restored rail cars, you'll travel through towering Redwoods, gorgeous open meadows and across wooden 'trestle' bridges. Next it's on to Sacramento, the former gold rush town and now California's capital.
DAY 6: Sacramento - California State Railroad Museum - Jamestown - Sonora.
Today begins with a sightseeing tour that includes Old Sacramento, the downtown area, the Governor's Mansion and State Capitol. Next, we visit the California State Railroad Museum to see its beautifully restored railcars and steam locomotives. Afterwards we travel to Jamestown and Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. Its historic locomotives and cars have starred in many films and TV shows. This evening enjoy a delicious, sunset meal while travelling on the Sierra Railroad Dinner Train. (D)
DAY 7: Sonora - 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.
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. Afterwards, you can choose to take the train back down the mountain, or walk back through virgin Redwood forest with a guide, discovering native plants and some of the world's tallest trees. 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
Your Trains
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View Train PhotosNapa Valley Wine Train
The Napa Valley Wine Train is a throwback of 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. On board, enjoy an elegant lunch, as you soak up the stunning country vistas.
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Sierra Railroad Dinner Train
The Sierra Railroad Dinner Train offers a magnificant journey along the historic Sierra Railroad combining a delicious 3 course meal with the splendours of the Sierra sunset. The on board chef carefully prepares all the meals which are reputed to be some of the best in the central valley.
Accommodation on Tour
San Francisco: Best Western Americania; Santa Rosa: Best Western Garden Inn; Fort Bragg: Quality Inn & Suites; Sacramento: Hawthorne Suites; Sonora: Inns of California; Merced: Travelodge Merced; Monterey: Days Inn.
Holiday Extensions
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View Holiday PhotosCalifornia's Classic Railroads + Hawaii - 7 Extra nights from £680
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 £124
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 Tropicana for the next three nights. -
View Holiday PhotosCalifornia's Classic Railroads + San Francisco - 2 Extra nights from £140
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 Best Western Americania 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 £680
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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. Adjacent to 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; mini-fridge; safety deposit box (daily charge).
California's Classic Railroads + Las Vegas - 3 Extra nights from £124
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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: Outdoor swimming pool; 9 restaurants; bar; beauty salon; fitness centre; hot tub and health club; entertainment shows; concierge services; casino; classic car collection.
Price includes: Room with private facilities; telephone; cable television; pay-per-view movies; hairdryer; iron/ironing board.
California's Classic Railroads + San Francisco - 2 Extra nights from £140
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View Holiday PhotosCarlton
The charming 163-room Hotel Carlton is an historic and stately building originally constructed in 1927. The international vintage ambiance of the hotel features eclectic and exotic touches from around the world that celebrate the joy of travel.
Location: Situated in downtown, 5 blocks from the Union Square and the Theatre district, and 2 blocks from the California Street cable car.
Facilities: Restaurant; concierge services; lobby; laundry and valet services; internet access.
Price includes: Room with private facilities; cable TV; coffee-maker; iron/ironing board; hairdryer; ceiling fan; radio alarm clock.
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NO HIDDEN EXTRAS: All prices shown include ALL compulsory charges (Fuel Supplement, Air Passenger Duty & Flight Supplement where applicable)
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