Hilly San Francisco lies at the northern end of the namesake peninsula, on the West Coast of the United States, and includes several gorgeous islands. Home to some of the most iconic buildings and best restaurants in the world, a variety of incredible art galleries and museums, and several enthralling natural areas close by, the city sits high on many travellers’ bucket lists. Must-sees include the city’s fun cable cars, jaw-dropping Golden Gate Bridge, with its spectacular views of the city on one side and nature on the other; historic (and creepy) Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary; and the unique wonderland of Chinatown. From the popular Fisherman’s Wharf, take a boat tour, explore the weird exhibits at Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, or simply soak in the photogenic views over the harbour.
As the largest of America’s fifty states, California has something to offer every traveller, no matter their tastes or preferences. Travellers keen to explore natural wonders will be thrilled to discover magnificent redwood forests, world-class beaches, the Yosemite National Park, the striking Mojave Desert, and the iconic Big Sur coast. Those seeking man-made pleasures can indulge in award-winning wines in Napa and Sonoma, visit Disneyland, take a selfie in front of the iconic Hollywood sign, and marvel at San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. With all of this and more on offer, it is little wonder that the ‘Golden State’ has long held an unbreakable grip on the world’s imagination.
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As the largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe amazes all who visit it. Characterised by glorious crystal-clear, cobalt-blue waters and surrounded by dramatic snowcapped peaks, this magnificent natural attraction provides an enticing location for outdoor pursuits and photography. It is split into distinct areas by the California-Nevada state line. While on the California side you will find low-key sightseeing, as well as excellent hiking, camping, and boating opportunities, the other side of the border offers big-name entertainment and the chance to strike it lucky at the glitzy Nevada Casinos - allowing for a holiday made of all kinds of fun. The lake itself is the area’s main attraction, but the diverse communities that surround it, the state parks, top-tier ski resorts, national forests, and protected tracts of pristine wilderness only add to the allure of this premier tourist region which draws in nearly three million visitors a year.
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Stretching across nearly 5000 square kilometres of northeastern California, Lassen National Forest is an alpine wilderness of indigo mountain peaks, glittering glacial lakes and fragrant pine and fir forests. Roughly 370 square kilometres of the park is blanketed with 'old growth' forests - virgin woodlands that have survived relatively undisturbed for thousands of years and constitute a rich well of biodiversity. The varied landscape makes it the perfect spot for fishing, camping, hiking, bicycling, boating, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. Among the wildlife that lives there are cougars, coyotes, bobcats, foxes, and black bears, as well as dozens of bird species. The Hat Creek Rim viewpoint, the Heart Lake Recreation Trail and Ishi Wilderness, with its fascinating geological outcrops, are all highlights of the national park. Motorboating and jet skiing are popular activities at Lake Almanor's beach.
The Oregon Coast - a nearly 560km stretch of the United States Pacific Coastline - is one of the country's premier tourist regions, offering incredible natural attractions. This favourite among road trippers and backpackers is divided into three distinct tourist areas. The North Oregon Coast offers the scenic city of Astoria overlooking the Columbia River. There's also stunning Cannon Beach and nearby Ecola State Park, and lastly, the premier kayaking and hiking destination of Tillamook. The Central Oregon Coast is known for its dramatic sea cliffs and rocky bays and includes activity-rich areas such as the Sea Lion Caves and the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area (near Yachats). The South Oregon Coast boasts a beautiful year-round climate, many sandy beaches, and the wonderful Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.
A striking coastal paradise on California's stunning North Coast, Mendocino County is a region where visitors can be immersed in the enchanting beauty of the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, where vibrant blooms and scenic trails create a botanical wonderland. Explore Glass Beach, a mesmerizing shoreline adorned with smooth sea glass treasures. Embark on a nostalgic journey aboard the Skunk Train, winding through towering redwood forests and picturesque canyons. Experience serenity at the City of 10,000 Buddhas, a peaceful Buddhist monastery and cultural centre. Discover the untamed beauty of Point Arena-Stornetta Lands and marvel at the unique rock formations of Bowling Ball Beach. Drive through the iconic Chandelier Drive-Thru Tree and stand in awe of ancient giants. Unwind amidst nature's splendour at Hendy Woods State Park, or savour the award-winning wines at Navarro Vineyards. Finally, encounter rare and endangered hoof stock at B Bryan Preserve, an ecological sanctuary.
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On California’s rugged northern coast lies Bodega Bay, a picturesque fishing village on the Sonoma Coast, which was made famous by Alfred Hitchcock’s 1963 cult classic thriller, ‘The Birds’. It is still possible to visit two iconic sites featured in the movie, the Potter Schoolhouse and St Teresa Church - which also features in a famous black and white image by renowned photographer Ansel Adams. This scenic region has a host of natural attractions with hiking and biking trails that offer magnificent Pacific Ocean views, including Bodega Head - where two rocky promontories meet the sea, forming a sheltered bay where whales can frequently be sighted in season. Doran Beach is a world-class windsurfing site known for its challenging breaks, best negotiated by experienced surfers.
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