Beyond the great cities of LA and San Francisco, there's a wonderful world to be discovered, with a staggering variety of landscapes.
In a nutshell
Fabulous coastlines, dramatic mountain ranges, pristine lakes and eerie deserts await your exploration. Amid all this are Gold Rush towns, resort getaways and great attractions to visit.
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Sacramento
California's capital is a hidden gem, tucked away in the Central Valley. Soak up the 19th-century Gold Rush atmosphere of Old Sacramento, with its saloons, stores and restaurants, and visit the beautifully restored State Capitol Building, seat of the state government.
Lake Tahoe
Crossing the California and Nevada border, this pristine alpine lake is one of the wonders of the West! In summer, the lake is perfect for swimming and the surrounding mountains are ideal for the keen hikers amongst you. In winter, Lake Tahoe turns into one of the best areas on the west coast to ski - over 15 alpine ski areas surround the lake - you'll be spoilt for choice.
Yosemite
The supreme highlight of any trip to California is Yosemite. No amount of photos can do justice to one of the world's most beautiful national parks. Yosemite encompasses 1,170sq miles, with many breathtaking view points including Glacier Point, located on the top of a 3,200ft almost sheer cliff. Make sure you pack some sturdy boots, as the best way to explore is by foot.
Mammoth
In winter it's a ski resort, and in summer its stunning lakes and peaks make for a fantastic getaway. Biking and hiking are popular on the many miles of trails.
Palm Springs
An oasis in the southern Californian desert, this town was built for pleasure. Out of town, visit the San Jacinto Mountains and the Joshua Tree National Park.
Pacific Coast
The Pacific coastline is one of the great glories of the USA. Soaring cliffs and beautiful beaches make for fabulous driving experiences. Visiting whales join the native seal colonies for your viewing pleasure and a succession of pretty towns dot the route, all the way.