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California's Classic Railroads
11 DAYS FROM £1314

This holiday has departures available between: 18th Apr 2011 to 3rd Oct 2011

Ride California's classic railroads through lush wine country, towering Redwoods and stunning mountains, with visits to San Francisco and the magnificent Yosemite National Park.

All this included

San Francisco City sightseeing
Sausalito
Napa Valley Wine Train with included lunch
Santa Rosa
Korbel Winery Tour & tasting
Fort Bragg
Skunk Train
Sacramento City sightseeing
Sacramento RiverTrain with barbecue lunch
Yosemite National Park
17-Mile Drive
Carmel
Monterey City sightseeing
Roaring Camp Railroad Excursion to Bear Mountain

Your Price Includes

Flights: UK - San Francisco - UK
Accommodation on tour in twin room with private facilities
Meals on tour 2 lunches (L)
Professional tour director on tour and local representative's assistance at other times
Porterage at hotels during tour (for one suitcase per person)
Transfers between overseas airport and hotels
All local and airport taxes/service charges
Single share option no supplement to pay

Holiday Itinerary

DAY 1: UK - San Francisco.
Fly to San Francisco where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for two nights.

DAY 2: San Francisco.
Regarded by many as the USA's most beautiful city, San Francisco is packed with famous landmarks and scenic attractions. This morning, during our city tour see the glorious Golden Gate Bridge, colourful China Town, pretty Fisherman's Wharf and elegant Nob Hill. Since the afternoon is at leisure why not ride the steep streets on a trundling tram or catch a cruise around the bay to wallow in the magnificent views over the sparkling coastline.

DAY 3: San Francisco - Sausalito - Santa Rosa. Napa Valley Wine Train.
This morning, your adventure continues in Sausalito, the jewel of San Francisco Bay. This picture-postcard artisan's village is known for its 'free spirits', winding streets and colourful houseboats. There's time to amble around its charming centre, enjoy the breathtaking views over the bay and browse the offbeat boutiques and galleries. Later, climb aboard the sleek Napa Valley Wine Train for a scenic ride through the sublime Napa Valley countryside, including an elegant 3-course lunch. Sit back and soak up the splendid passing vistas - sun-drenched valleys, wildflower meadows and the rolling vineyards and grand mansions of many of the region's most notable wineries. After taking your leave of this lovely train, your next stop is Santa Rosa, the largest city in California's wine country. (L)

DAY 4: Santa Rosa - Korbel Winery - Fort Bragg.
Today we make our way to Korbel Winery, where world-famous Korbel Champagne, the favourite of many US Presidents, is produced. Set in the historic Russian River Valley, our visit to this stately winery includes a fascinating tour of the barrel-filled antique vaults of its Champagne Cellar, together with a tasting session. Later we journey along the historic Highway 1 for your overnight stay in the coastal town of Fort Bragg.

DAY 5: Fort Bragg - Skunk Train excursion - Sacramento.
A treat awaits today, with an excursion on the historic Skunk Train, winding through California's mighty Redwood forests. Built in 1885 as a logging railroad, this historic line got its name from the smell of its steam engines, and winds through the spectacular Coastal Mountains before following the Noyo River Canyon. After clambering aboard the restored rail cars, you'll travel through towering Redwoods, gorgeous open meadows and across wooden 'trestle' bridges. Next it's on to Sacramento, the former gold rush town and now California's capital, where you'll enjoy a sightseeing tour of its fascinating Old Town, quaint downtown area and fine Governor's Mansion and State Capitol Building.

DAY 6: Sacramento - Sacramento RiverTrain - California State Railroad Museum - Sacramento.
Today enjoy a real western-style adventure on your excursion on the Sacramento RiverTrain. Painted in sparkling gold to celebrate the area's gold rush heritage, this wonderful train follows the majestic Sacramento River, California's longest waterway. As you travel, you'll be entertained by Wild West characters and stop for a barbecue lunch on the riverbank. Keep a lookout for the famed bandit den of Robber's Roost - it might just herald a spine-tingling Western gunfight! A highlight of the trip is when we pass over the 8,000 feet long Fremont Trestle, the longest wooden bridge in the west. Afterwards, visit the California State Railroad Museum in Old Sacramento to see its beautifully restored railcars and steam locomotives. (L)

DAY 7: Sacramento - Yosemite National Park - Merced.
Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite National Park is one of the USA's first wilderness parks and an awe-inspiring 1,200 square-mile montage of deep valleys, soaring peaks, ancient giant sequoias and crashing waterfalls. Today, you'll have time to savour its jaw-dropping beauty, perhaps taking an open-air tram ride, renting a pedal bike, joining a trail ride or picnicking amidst what is one of the planet's greatest natural wonderlands. Make sure to visit the Ansel Adams Studio, homage to the legendary park images captured by its best-known photographer.

DAY 8: Merced - 17-Mile Drive - Monterey.
Today, we switch attention to California's picturesque coast, with a visit to the lovely town of Carmel, a popular haunt for celebrities, writers and artists. En route to Monterey, we take the legendary 17-Mile Drive, a scenic rollercoaster of a coastal road that passes stunning landmarks such as the famous Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill PGA golf courses, Cypress Point and the Lone Cypress - a single tree perched on wave-lashed rocks at Pebble Beach. On arrival in Monterey, enjoy a sightseeing tour around the town's historic Fisherman's Wharf and Cannery Row, made famous by novelist John Steinbeck. Afterwards, there's time to explore its colourful shops, observe the sea lions and otters in the Bay and watch the magical underwater life on show at the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.

DAY 9: Monterey - Roaring Camp Railroad - San Francisco.
A trip on a 100-year-old steam locomotive on the Roaring Camp Railroad beckons today. This narrow gauge railroad runs to the summit of Bear Mountain, clickety-clacking over 'trestle' bridges and through soaring Redwoods. Explore Roaring Camp, an atmospheric recreation of a 19th century logging town, complete with olde-worlde opera house, sawmill, general store and a tiny covered bridge. Afterwards, you can choose to take the train back down the mountain, or walk back through virgin Redwood forest with a guide, discovering native plants and some of the world's tallest trees. This afternoon, you'll travel back to San Francisco.

DAY 10: San Francisco.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK.

DAY 11: Home landing in the UK.

Maximum elevation on this tour is 8,000 ft.

Check prices and availability for this holiday

Your Train

  • Napa Valley Wine Train

    The Napa Valley Wine Train is a throwback of a bygone era of rail travel. This splendid train carries you on a memorable three-hour trip to the quaint village of St Helena and back. On board, enjoy an elegant lunch, as you soak up the stunning country vistas.

Accommodation on Tour

San Francisco: Carlton; Santa Rosa: Best Western Garden Inn; Fort Bragg: Best Western Vista Manor; Sacramento: Hawthorne Suites; Merced: Travelodge Merced; Monterey: Days Inn.

Holiday Extensions

  • California's Classic Railroads + Hawaii - 7 Extra nights from £610

    Extend your holiday with an additional week on the stunning beaches of the Hawaiian island of Oahu. Visit Pearl Harbour, Royal Iolani Palace, shop at the busy International Market or simply relax on the sands of Waikiki Beach. On day 10 of your tour transfer to the airport for your flight to Honolulu and your hotel, the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani for the next seven nights. On day 17 transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home.

  • California's Classic Railroads + Las Vegas - 3 Extra nights from £150

    Add a final flourish to your Californian adventure with three extra nights in exhilarating Las Vegas, known as 'Sin City'. Try your luck at its flashy casinos on the world-famous 'Strip', or take a trip to discover the Hoover Dam, one of engineering wonders of the world.
    On day 10 transfer to the airport for your flight to Las Vegas and your hotel, the Imperial Palace for the next three nights.

  • California's Classic Railroads + San Francisco - 2 Extra nights from £130

    Make the most of your time in California by treating yourself to two extra nights in beautiful San Francisco. Explore the city's diverse neighbourhoods on its famous trams or visit the fascinating prison island Alcatraz.
    On day 10 remain at your hotel, the Carlton for the next two nights. On day 12 transfer to airport for your overnight flight home.

Accommodation on Extensions

California's Classic Railroads + Hawaii - 7 Extra nights from £610

  • Sheraton Princess Kaiulani DiamondDiamondDiamond

    The Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Hotel offers a glimpse of Hawaii's royal past in the heart of Waikiki Beach. Once home to Hawaii's Princess Victoria Kawekiu Lunalilo Kalaninuiahilapalapa Ka'iulani, the hotel houses historic photographs of the princess and the royal monarchy throughout the property.

    Location: Next door to the International Marketplace and King's Village. Adjacent to Kalakaua Avenue with its wonderful array of shops and restaurants, with easy access to 3 sister hotels and famous Waikiki Beach. A short walk left along the beachfront (ideal for sunset) will take you to Kapiolani Park then on to Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium.
    Facilities: Swimming pool with free chairs and sunbeds; restaurant; bar with pool service; free pool and beach towels; shop; internet access; lounge; laundry; room service; concierge; lifts.
    Prices includes: Room with private facilities; air-conditioning; coffee-maker; cable TV; clock radio; hairdryer; iron/ironing board; minifridge; safe (daily charge).

California's Classic Railroads + Las Vegas - 3 Extra nights from £150

  • Imperial Palace DiamondDiamondDiamond

    The Imperial Palace comprises contemporary towers featuring an ornate and traditional Asian style. The hotel offers a friendly atmosphere, great entertainment, dining, shopping and everything you need for a complete holiday.

    Location: In the centre of the 'Strip' the hotel affords the best location to enjoy the non-stop entertainment and vibrant energy of the 'City that never sleeps'.
    Facilities: Outdoor swimming pool; 9 restaurants; bar; beauty salon; fitness centre; hot tub and health club; entertainment shows; concierge services; casino; classic car collection.
    Price includes: Room with private facilities; telephone; cable television; pay-per-view movies; hairdryer; iron/ironing board.

California's Classic Railroads + San Francisco - 2 Extra nights from £130

  • Carlton DiamondDiamondDiamond

    The charming 163-room Hotel Carlton is an historic and stately building originally constructed in 1927. The international vintage ambiance of the hotel features eclectic and exotic touches from around the world that celebrate the joy of travel.

    Location: Situated in downtown, 5 blocks from the Union Square and the Theatre district, and 2 blocks from the California Street cable car.
    Facilities: Restaurant; concierge services; lobby; laundry and valet services; internet access.
    Price includes: Room with private facilities; cable TV; coffee-maker; iron/ironing board; hairdryer; ceiling fan; radio alarm clock.

To help you plan and make the most of your holiday, below is a list optional excursions available to you.

California's Classic Railroads

Evening In Chinatown

Explore this vibrant historic section of San Francisco that houses the largest Chinese community outside of Asia. Included in this evening's agenda is a lavish four-course dinner in an authentic Chinese restaurant. This evening will include a short walking tour of Chinatown plus a ride on San Francisco famous Cable Cars.
$38.00 (USD)

Rocket Boat

Get blown away on this 30-minute high-speed tour of the City's historic waterfront. Sail past the sea lions, zoom to the Bay Bridge, fly down to AT&T Park, scream past Treasure Island, and breeze by Alcatraz on the way back to PIER 39. This exciting ride pauses occasionally to allow passengers to catch their breath and capture unique sightseeing and photo opportunities unavailable on other tours. RocketBoat, it's an extreme adventure powered by biodiesel fuel. A blast on the Bay that is not to be missed.
$26.00 (USD)

1-Hour Historic River Cruise

For the finest Old Sacramento sightseeing available, hop aboard one of Hornblower's exciting river cruises. Guests see the region¿s most scenic, storied sites and enjoy five-star service aboard comfortable vessels. Cocktails and small bites are available for purchase.
$20.00 (USD)

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Explore the wonders of our ocean planet in nearly 200 galleries and exhibits at one of the world's finest aquariums. Highlights include a million-gallon indoor ocean with giant bluefin tuna, sharks, sea turtles, stingrays and barracuda; plus the largest jellyfish exhibits anywhere.
$25.00 (USD)

San Francisco By Night

The evening begins with dinner at a popular Fisherman's Wharf restaurant and spectacular views of the bay. Afterwards visit historic Ghirardelli Square. Set on the city's dynamic waterfront, the square offers a great view of the sea and elegant 19th-century factor and mill buildings that are worth exploring. During your visit, relax with an Irish coffee and some world famous chocolates. Before heading back to your hotel we will drive out to Treasure Island to view the city lights from across the bay.
$60.00 (USD)
Please note that optional excursions and prices are subject to change.
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California's Classic Railroads
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