Serene, palm-fringed beaches, spectacular sunsets and majestic mountain scenery make California the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway or honeymoon.
Although most visitors tend to stay glued to the coast, California has far more to offer beyond the beach. The best way to see what California has to offer is with this 10-day romantic guide to the Golden State.
Days 1 – 2: California’s undiscovered wine region
Landing in San Francisco, hop in the car and head east to the Tri-Valley, one of California’s hidden viticultural and culinary gems.
Home to award-winning wineries and delightfully diverse restaurants, Tri-Valley offers gorgeous sunshine and idyllic countryside and is the perfect place for a little RnR after a long-haul flight.
Visit the Purple Orchid Resort & Spa for a rejuvenating couples massage where guests can learn massage techniques from professionals – truly the gift that keeps on giving. To explore one of the oldest wine regions in the U.S., rent an electric bike and cruise through sunny vineyards in between tastings.
Days 3 – 4: America’s Farm-to-Fork mecca
For foodie couples, a stop in Sacramento is a must. The hub of America’s most abundant agricultural region, Sacramento’s access to fresh ingredients has earned it the title ‘America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital.’
The best ingredients, along with lower rent costs, attract incredible chefs who are able to do more in their restaurants.
The food scene in Sacramento is a throwback to days gone by when chefs went to the farmer’s markets and forged relationships with growers, crafting menus based on what’s in season.
Tantalise taste buds on a Local Roots Food tour, which offers tours all over the city – from the historic downtown to the artsy midtown.
Days 5 – 8: Wildflowers and waterfalls
Inspiring poets, authors, romantics and artists for decades, Yosemite Mariposa County makes for a stunning natural retreat. Home to soaring granite icons such as Half Dome and El Capitan, as well as Old Western-style towns, Yosemite Mariposa County is the perfect place for serene seclusion.
Make your base AutoCamp Yosemite – a collection of luxury tents and deluxe Airstream trailers that combines the best of both luxury accommodation and authentic outdoor ruggedness.
From there, go and traverse the stunning natural park, exploring waterfalls like Yosemite Falls – the tallest waterfall in North America. More information can be found at yosemite.com.
Days 9 – 10: Unadulterated outdoorsy hedonism
Majestic in scale and awesome in natural beauty, the year-round adventureland of Mammoth Lakes is California’s best-kept secret. Tucked away in the Eastern Sierra, Mammoth Lakes is home to the closest ski resort to L.A., making it a long-time favourite mountain getaway for the Hollywood elite.
With ski season regularly going into July, take a romantic snowcat ride to the top of Mammoth Mountain for sweeping views of the Sierra peaks as you enjoy a charcuterie board and a glass of wine.
Toast to your love at Skadi – a Norse-inspired restaurant offering authentic alpine cuisine with a fresh, Californian twist. End the trip with a drive down to LAX before returning home refreshed and more in love than ever. More information can be found at visitmammoth.com.
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