CENTRAL COAST
CENTRAL COAST
Best time to go : It ’ s possible to explore this iconic route year-round , although you can expect it to be busy during the summer months .
San Francisco
Monterey Pebble Beach
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Salinas
Piedras Blancas San Simeon
San Luis Obispo Pismo Beach
Hearst Castle
Santa Barbara
CALIFORNIA
Solvang
Hearst Castle
Breathtaking coastal views and outdoor adventures
With cool ocean breezes , jagged sea cliffs , beautiful beaches and vibrant towns , California ’ s central coast is a region of epic grandeur . From history and culture to world-class vineyards , shopping and dining , there ’ s a whole host of experiences to dive into .
In Monterey find a spot on an ocean view deck to watch the entertaining antics of the otters floating in the dense beds of sea kelp . Browse the quirky shops of Cannery Row , perhaps rent a bike and follow the coast around the peninsula , and drive along 17 Mile Drive to scenic Pebble Beach and its world-famous golf course . Travel inland to Monterey Wine Country , home to dozens of vineyards and tasting rooms in the Salinas Valley .
On Monterey Peninsula ’ s south side is the artsy enclave of Carmel-bythe-Sea , whose main streets are lined with galleries , cosy gastropubs and welcoming inns . The Carmel Mission is one of the state ’ s most beautiful missions and the white sands of Carmel Beach are a lovely place for a stroll .
Further south at Piedras Blancas , see thousands of elephant seals on the narrow rocky beach just steps from the highway . And , in nearby San Simeon , don ’ t miss lavish Hearst Castle , the opulent estate-turned-museum of media mogul , William Randolph Hearst .
Appealing San Luis Obispo lies on the edge of the Edna Valley wine region , a gorgeous place for hiking and mountain biking . Delightful Pismo Beach is crammed with surf shops , seafood joints , an historic pier and a broad expanse of beach . It ’ s well worth heading slightly inland in order to visit charming Solvang . Founded by Danish immigrants in 1911 , see the gingerbread architecture , twirling windmills , tempting bakeries and kitschy souvenir shops .
Chic Santa Barbara is flanked by the towering Santa Ynez Mountains and brims with Spanish-style architecture that is adorned with red-tiled rooftops and trailing bougainvillea . Must-do ’ s here include a visit to Stearns Wharf to sit and feast on a portion of fish and chips ; browse the shops of State Street or splash around the waterfront in a kayak .
from £ 125 per person per night from £ 105 per person per night
PORTOLA HOTEL & SPA
4H Monterey
Located near downtown Monterey and Old Fisherman ’ s Wharf , this bayfront hotel is a wonderful place to escape whether you travel as a couple or have the family in tow . During those warm sunny California days , where better to cool off than the solar heated pool , which is surrounded by a lush landscape and cool coastal breeze . The choice of dining venues includes Peter B ’ s Brewpub , where you can look forward to seasonal pub food washed down with a craft beer . In addition , coastal-inspired guest rooms and suites offer a variety of views and feature contemporary furnishings .
Features : 379 rooms • restaurant • brewery
• swimming pool • 24 hour fitness centre
• spa • children ’ s activities • bicycle rentals
• parking
90 CALIFORNIA
Accommodation : In standard rooms with TV , tea / coffee maker , hairdryer , iron & ironing board , fridge and safe .
Upgrade options : Courtyard rooms which have a patio area • partial harbour view rooms • spacious studios • one bedroom suites with living area .
CARMEL MISSION INN
3H Carmel-by-the-Sea
This charming hotel is situated on one of the most desirable stretches of Highway 1 in the unique community of Carmel-by-the-Sea , within easy reach of Monterey and Pebble Beach . Outdoor enthusiasts will love Carmel ’ s breathtaking beaches , great restaurants , world-class golf courses and endless variety of leisure activities . The Inn itself offers a good selection of leisure facilities including a pool and sundeck , as well as the popular Shearwater Tavern and bright , modern guest rooms .
Features : 165 rooms • restaurant • bar
• swimming pool • gym • jacuzzi • bicycle rentals • free WiFi • free parking
Accommodation : In standard rooms with TV , hairdryer , tea / coffee maker , mini fridge , iron & ironing board , and safe . Some rooms also have a balcony .
Upgrade options : High floor deluxe rooms
• junior mountain suites with separate living room and sweeping mountain views
• family suites .
prices & offers change constantly - call for today ’ s best available deals !