California and Nevada, a road trip to remember
From San Jose to Santa Cruz, we meet a blend of surf, sand, and fun. Mainland surfing was invented here by three Hawaiian princes where the sport has only grown in popularity and for good reason. This amazing place has so much to offer from marine sanctuaries, massive redwood trees to dance and arts festivals like Bay Area Dance Week with 6 routines being performed at the same time! This festival is every year in April as well as the Watsonville strawberry festival every August. The eclectic feel of the warm and friendly atmosphere that envelopes the area is electric and creates a wonderful holiday environment.
The amazing range of food is cater’s for everyone. From Mexican to bar and grills, it has it all. Start the day with freshly baked goods. With local and handmade options to choose from you know that you are getting the best. Have a look at the local pizza place where you get a free shirt to commemorate the occasion. For a sweet treat during there is a conveniently placed Cookie Company!
Choose the right accommodation location and you can be steps away from the beach. With the sand between your toes and the calming sea perfect for relaxation. Within the area lies Seabright State Beach, Seacliff State Beach and Sunset State Beach and Santa Cruz Harbour. This is along with countless others that stretch as far as the eye can see. With the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, you have an opportunity to view sea lions, otters, and many varieties of seabirds. Set sail on a chardonnay cruise for the day to get the best views of the coastline.
The capital of Nevada, you guessed it, Carson City! In the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Carson City offers natural hot springs and mural festivals. With natural hot springs that were recently renovated, relax in the pools, and enjoy the beautiful mountain view.
Welcome to the mining town of Virginia City! take a train up the mountain and let the area take you back in time, Welcome to 1859. From bloody marys at the local saloon, to a visit at the opera house, the highlight of this area is the Mark Twain festival. This is from April 21-23 every year, dress up and get involved in the festivities all around Carson City such as art, music, treasure hunts, costume contests and the Twain "Cocktail" Train from Carson City.
With a friendly atmosphere and gorgeous mountains, Lake Tahoe is the ultimate destination for anyone looking for the outdoors. With plenty of accommodation ranging from rentals and hotels near the area, you can find a lovely place to stay whether you are a solo traveller or travelling with your family. The clear water will take your breath away and you can let your worries go, paddle a clear bottom kayak and explore the water with a fantastic perspective or take a boat ride and sit back and enjoy the views. Emerald island Is amazing to view and has fantastic history behind it, including a Viking castle! enjoy the massive mountains that surround you which are fantastic any time of year. With 14 ski resorts you are also able to ski and snowshoe in the winter and bike and hike in the summer. This is the perfect all-around destination. After a day in the outdoors visit Walley’s Hot Springs. You will find a large, heated swimming pool and five separate mineral spas with temperatures ranging from 98 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
To the oldest bar in Nevada, we go! Founded in 1851 Genoa is just 20 minutes away from Carson City. From mountain ranges to wild horses, this is a four-season visual paradise. With rocks to mountains, experience hiking to biking and hit the trails! Take a fantastic hot air balloon ride and gain a new perspective with views stretching for miles. There are many events to attend while passing through the areas as well, including the Genoa Candy Dance. Learn about snowshoe Thompson and the interesting mail delivery service! And learn all about the history of the area with the Mormon Station State Park and Museum, relax and head to the local bar and hear about the area from a local’s perspective.
An hour away from Carson City, Lake Tahoe and Virginia City we arrive in Reno! Casino's, 24-hour entertainment and a marina, you are spoilt for choice. Are you an automobile fan? Welcome to the National Automobile Museum pretend to be a superhero for the day with the batmobile or go back to the future and be Marty McFly, Let your imagination go wild. See the example drill with a nod to Reno’s mining history at the Silver Legacy Casino. Looking for a bit of relaxation? check out the Atlantis Spa with a range of treatments you are sure to love. Are you a daredevil? Have a look at Whitney Peak climbing wall, be warned not for the faint of heart! With the wall on the side of the building, you can enter even of you are not staying at the hotel.
