California from North to South

Trip Description

Accomodation

Stay program

• day 1

  Welcome to San Francisco

  

  Your road trip in California starts here! Arrival in San Francisco and first walk in the Fisherman’s Wharf port. Photograph the hundreds of sea lions and enjoy a well-deserved dinner.

• day 2

  San Francisco: legendary neighborhoods

  

  Dedicate this day to discovering the iconic neighborhoods of San Francisco. Start with Union Square, then stroll through Japan Town and explore the bohemian Haight-Ashbury district with our French-speaking guide. End the afternoon at the park bordering the Painted Ladies, those colorful houses emblematic of the city, and spend a lively evening in the vibrant Mission District, famous for its nightlife and its many bars and restaurants.

• day 3

  San Francisco and its bay

  

  Start the day with a walk in the vast Golden Gate Park, where gardens, museums, and trails intertwine in a lush setting. Next, head to the bay for a boat trip to Alcatraz Island or opt for a bike ride across the legendary Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito, a charming fishing town. Return by boat at the end of the day to enjoy spectacular views of the bay, bathed in the golden light of the sunset.

• day 4

  The wine road to Napa Valley.

  

  Pick up your rental car and drive up to Twin Peaks Park for a panoramic view of San Francisco. Then, hit the road to Napa Valley, the first stop on this California road trip. On the way, you can stop in the charming town of Vallejo to explore its local shops and restaurants. In Napa, start with a tour of renowned vineyards such as Robert Mondavi Winery or Beringer Vineyards, where you can taste local wines. Also explore the towns of Napa and Sonoma, with their unique shops and gourmet restaurants. In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of the many fine restaurants in the area.

• day 5

  From Lassen Volcanic...

  

  Set off for Lassen Volcanic Park, entering from the south to explore Bumpass Hell, a fascinating basin of mud and volcanic fumaroles. On the way, stop at Sulphur Works to observe bubbling sulfurous springs, evidence of the region's unique geothermal activity. Discover the park's varied landscapes: from dense forests to impressive volcanic panoramas, this little-known corner of California offers treasures off the beaten path. Admire the majestic Lassen Peak and end the day with a magical sunset over the tranquil waters of Manzanita Lake.

• day 6

  ...at Burney Falls

  

  Start the day by continuing your exploration of Lassen Volcanic Park. For a complete adventure, hike to the summit of Lassen Peak and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding volcanic landscapes. For a more relaxing option, choose walks along the lakes or through the park's lush meadows. At the end of the day, to complete your discovery of the region, head to Burney Falls, a magnificent waterfall ranked among the most beautiful in California. Located about 45 minutes by car from Lassen Park, Burney Falls offers an idyllic and peaceful setting.

• day 7

  On the shores of Lake Tahoe

  

  Take the road towards Lake Tahoe, an idyllic mountain destination. On the way, stop in Truckee to discover its charming downtown with local shops and restaurants. At Lake Tahoe, explore the fine sandy beaches like Sand Harbor and King’s Beach, or opt for a boat ride on the lake’s crystal-clear waters. Enjoy the magnificent views from Emerald Bay State Park, with California on one side, Nevada on the other, and discover the hiking trails that wind around the lake. In summer, swimming, kayaking, and hiking are a must.

• day 8

  Mammoth Lakes: between lakes and mountains

  

  On the road to Mammoth Lake, make a stop at Bodie, a well-preserved ghost town from the Wild West, for an immersion into the mining history of the region. Continue then on the dirt road that leads to Mono Lake, famous for its unique geological formations called tufas. You won't be disappointed by this landscape that seems straight out of another planet. In Mammoth Lakes, explore the ski resort and its surroundings. Enjoy magnificent panoramas from the lakes and surrounding mountains. Discover the hiking trails or relax in a peaceful natural environment.

• day 9

  In the heart of Yosemite

  

  Take the road to Yosemite via the picturesque Tioga Pass (Route 120), with its many must-see stops to admire the views. Discover the wonders of Yosemite National Park, such as the majestic waterfalls, the giant sequoias, and the iconic rock formations like El Capitan and Half Dome. In summer, the park is extremely popular, so arriving early will allow you to avoid long lines and fully enjoy the spectacular scenery.

• day 10

  First stop on the California coast

  

  Take the time to enjoy Yosemite, then hit the road towards Monterey. Start by strolling along Cannery Row, the former industrial street transformed into a lively promenade with its shops and restaurants. Visit the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, a wonder for the whole family, where the incredible marine life will amaze both young and old. At the end of the day, explore old Monterey, then enjoy a seaside dinner while admiring a magnificent sunset. A perfect day, blending nature, history, and relaxation.

• day 11

  Discovery of Big Sur Park

  

  Start your day with the spectacular 17-Mile Drive, this legendary coastal road dotted with must-see stops such as Pebble Beach and the Lone Cypress, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Then head down Highway 1 towards Big Sur, making a stop at Bixby Bridge, one of the most iconic and photogenic bridges on the California coast. Continue with a hike through the majestic redwoods of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, then make a detour to McWay Falls, this unique waterfall cascading onto a secluded beach. Enjoy a picnic in this wild setting before hitting the road again towards San Luis Obispo to spend the night there.

• day 12

  The coast up to Los Angeles

  

  After leaving San Luis Obispo, take a break in Solvang, a picturesque town with Danish style, where you can stroll through charming streets and taste local specialties. Then, continue towards Santa Barbara, where you can wander along Stearns Wharf, explore the historic center with its Spanish-style buildings, and enjoy a lunch with an ocean view. Arrive in Los Angeles at the end of the day, after a beautiful day of discoveries between sea and mountains.

• day 13

  Behind the scenes of Hollywood

  

  Take advantage of this first day in Los Angeles to explore the city of cinema, without a doubt the most iconic in California. Discover the high-tech attractions at Universal Studios park, dive into the enchanted world of Harry Potter, or explore the sets of famous movies and series during the famous little train tour. For movie enthusiasts, a guided tour of the Warner Bros. studios will reveal the behind-the-scenes of your favorite shoots.

• day 14

  Discovery of Los Angeles

  

  Set off on an adventure in the heights of Hollywood to get close to the famous letters, explore the luxurious streets of Beverly Hills, and dive into the excitement of Downtown LA. Don't miss the iconic Hollywood Boulevard, then relax at Venice Beach and Santa Monica. A rich program for an unforgettable day!

• day 15

  Exploration of Joshua Tree

  

  Explore Joshua Tree National Park, one of the jewels of the California desert. Start with a visit to the park's north entrance to admire the iconic rock formations, such as Skull Rock. Continue towards the famous Joshua trees, which add a touch of exoticism to the arid landscape. Take the time to hike on trails like Hidden Valley, which offers spectacular views of the fascinating rock formations. End your day in Palm Springs. Enjoy this desert oasis to relax at the hotel, explore the downtown area with its unique shops and fine restaurants, and let yourself be captivated by the view of the surrounding mountains at sunset.

• day 16

  San Diego and its beaches

  

  Return to the coast to discover San Diego. Start with the historic Gaslamp Quarter, known for its restored 19th-century buildings, trendy restaurants, and shops. Enjoy the beaches of La Jolla, where you can swim, surf, or simply relax in the sun. Explore the San Diego waterfront, with its picturesque promenades and breathtaking views of the ocean. In the evening, discover the Little Italy district for a memorable dinner in an authentic Italian restaurant.

• day 17

  Flight to France

  Return to Los Angeles to drop off your rental car. Get ready for your return flight with unforgettable memories of your Californian adventure.