America America | Seite 87

San Francisco

Pacific Ocean

San Jose Castle Rock State Park

Soquel Santa Cruz

Sacramento

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve

Capitola Aptos

Sacramento

Lesser known gems for fun , food and gold galore

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 . Ultra-mellow Santa Cruz is the quintessential California beach town with its history cemented in surfing . Colourful houses rise up the hillside overlooking Capitola Beach which is a lovely spot to relax and splash around in the water . Take a stroll along the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk where you can also ride a vintage wooden roller coaster , visit a surfing museum inside a lighthouse or , head out to sea in the hope of spotting some whales . And , whilst in “ Surf City ” why not book yourself a surf lesson and get up on the waves ! Within an easy drive are the picturesque towns of Capitola , Soquel and Aptos , plus there are numerous state parks to experience the oldgrowth coastal redwoods .

Getting there : The drive from San Francisco to San Jose takes about an hour , while to Santa Cruz it is about a 1½ hour ’ s drive and Sacramento is 1¾ hour ’ s drive .

Best time to go : Along the coast year-round temperatures are mild with cool summers , while inland where it ’ s more sheltered , the climate is more Mediterranean . from £ 159 per person per night from £ 85 per person per night from £ 95 per person per night

HOTEL VALENCIA SANTANA ROW

4H San Jose

Standard room

HAMPTON INN SANTA CRUZ

3H Santa Cruz

KIMPTON SAWYER HOTEL

4H Sacramento

Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley ’ s charming Santana Row entertainment district , this elegant hotel offers a sophisticated experience . From the Mediterranean-inspired facade and warm interiors you ’ ll feel transported to the luxury boutique hotels of Old World Spain . The hotel restaurant has an adjoining courtyard terrace , which is ideal for dining alfresco during warmer months . Guest rooms are inviting retreats with views of Santana Row or the landscaped courtyard .

Features : 215 rooms & suites • restaurant • 2 bars ( one seasonal )• swimming pool • fitness centre • free WiFi

• valet parking

Accommodation : In classic rooms with TV , mini bar , coffee maker and hairdryer .

Upgrade options : Deluxe balcony rooms • spacious junior suites , most with a balcony • executive suites with separate seating area and balcony .

This ultra-mellow beach town lies along Highway One and the Hampton Inn provides a comfortable base for your explorations . You ’ ll be within easy reach of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk , where you can take a boat tour from the wharf for whale watching or head into the Santa Cruz Mountains to see the ancient trees . There ’ s a free breakfast to see you on your way each day , and ample restaurants nearby .

Features : 46 rooms • breakfast room • small indoor swimming pool • free WiFi • free parking

Accommodation : In standard rooms with TV , coffee maker , microwave , mini fridge , hairdryer and iron & ironing board .

Upgrade options : Larger standard rooms with sofa bed

• mini suite with sofa bed .

This lovely hotel brings an entirely new level of sophistication and exclusivity to downtown Sacramento with a fabulous location on Downtown Commons . Socialise over cocktails and cuisine at Revival at the Sawyer on the chic pool deck which overlooks Golden 1 Centre ; savour more formal dining at Echo and Rig ; or perhaps enjoy a game of bowling , billiards , ping pong or darts at Punch Bowl Social .

Features : 250 rooms & suites • 3 restaurants & bars

• swimming pool • fitness centre • poolside yoga • bicycle rentals • in room spa services • valet parking

Accommodation : In standard rooms with TV , mini bar , yoga mat , Nespresso machine and hairdryer .

Upgrade options : Larger premier rooms .

visit your travel agent or call 08444 937 666 • www . premierholidays . co . uk

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