Northern California
Lesser known gems for fun, food and gold
California’ s vibrant capital city, Sacramento, is your go-to place for delving into Gold Rush history and seeing how award-winning chefs with a focus on hyper-local ingredients have made the city the nation’ s leader in farm-to-fork cuisine. For a glimpse into 19th century life, head to the 28 acre Old Sacramento Waterfront which features dozens of recreated and beautifully restored Gold Rush era buildings, horse-drawn carriages and living history characters. Also recommended, is the California State Railroad Museum, which tells the story of the transcontinental railroad. A cutting-edge urban hub in the heart of the Silicon Valley, San Jose delivers surprising diversity through innovative museums, a rich history, plus an outstanding dining and craft brew scene. In the city’ s downtown, the Tech Interactive is a family-friendly science and technology centre with hands-on activities, experimental labs and more. When it’ s time to refuel, head for Santana Row which has over 50 shops, restaurants, as well as regular live music. Outside the city, take the chance to immerse yourself in nature at Castle Rock State Park or, bike alongside native wildflowers at Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve. Encircled by majestic peaks, the massive Lake Tahoe straddles the California-Nevada border and is worthy of any bucket-list. Outdoor enthusiasts will have no problem filling their time whatever the season, including kayaking, rafting, hiking, ziplining, cycling, skiing, skating and so much more. Enjoy also immaculate beaches along with a wealth of artistic and cultural activities plus shopping, museums and casinos.
Sacramento
San Francisco
Pacific Ocean
San Jose • Castle Rock • State Park
• Sacramento
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
• Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve
Lake Tahoe •
Getting there: The drive from San Francisco to San Jose takes about an hour, Sacramento is 1¾ hour’ s drive and Lake Tahoe 3¼ hours drive.
Best time to go: Along the coast temperatures are mild with cool summers( June-August), while inland where it’ s more sheltered, the climate is more Mediterranean. Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination with water activities prominent in summer months, while alpine resorts take centre stage in the winter( December-February).
California- Northern California from £ 148 per person per night from £ 93 * per person per night from £ 113 * per person per night
Hotel Valencia Santana Row
4H San Jose
Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley’ s charming Santana Row entertainment district, this chic hotel offers a sophisticated experience. From the Mediterraneaninspired facade and warm interiors you’ ll feel transported to the luxury boutique hotels of Old World Spain.
Make the most of the rejuvenating California sunshine at the outdoor swimming pool and hot tub or perhaps fit in a workout at the fitness centre.
The Oveja Negra Restaurant tempts with a modern twist on classic tapas, the swanky Vbar is your go to for cocktails, plus there is the seasonal Cielo rooftop bar where during the warmer months you can relax whilst taking in views of the Santa Cruz mountains.
Each of the 216 inviting rooms and suites provide an array of amenities such as hairdryer, mini bar, coffee maker and steamer. Views vary, but include the Santana Row neighbourhood or the landscaped courtyard. Upgraded rooms also have a balcony.
Kimpton Sawyer Hotel
4H Sacramento
This lovely hotel brings an entirely new level of sophistication and exclusivity to downtown Sacramento with a fabulous location on Downtown Commons.
Socialise or unwind at the chic pool deck which overlooks Golden 1 Centre, make use of the bicycles to explore along the city’ s bike paths, spend time in the gym or indulge with a soothing in-room massage from the hotel’ s partner spa.
Premium cocktails, seasonal menus and a sophisticated ambience await you at Revival or perhaps pop into Echo and Rig steakhouse.
Elegant rooms provide a serene retreat and provide a hairdryer, Nespresso machine and yoga mat. Upgrade options include Premier rooms and one bedroom suites.
* Price payable to Premier £ 82 with an additional £ 11 mandatory fees payable locally in US $.
Premier Plus FREE morning coffee & tea service. Nightly hosted wine hour: 5-6pm.
The Landing Resort & Spa
5H Lake Tahoe
NEW
Located on the shores of South Lake Tahoe, this luxury lakeside escape has easy access to every kind of outdoor adventure you can think of, as well as Heavenly Village for top-tier shopping, dining and art galleries.
When not trying your hand at the seasonal activities on or around the lake, relax on the private beach or beside the outdoor pool. Perhaps hire a bike, workout in the fitness centre, treat yourself to some well-deserved‘ me-time’ at the spa or simply sit and soak up the beautiful lake views.
The hotel’ s restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere along with a menu highlighting locallysourced ingredients and seasonal flavours. There’ s also Jimmy’ s Bar for all manner of drinks and, in the summer months, guests can unwind on the Rooftop Terrace.
Accommodations exude alpine luxury thanks to rich wood details, chic touches and opulent extras including a stone fireplace. Other amenities include a coffee machine, hairdryer and patio or balcony.
* Price payable to Premier £ 85 with an additional £ 28 mandatory fees payable locally in US $.
visit your local travel agent or call 08444 937 666 • www. premierholidays. co. uk California 83