Day 1: San Francisco

Meet your group and tour guide at the hotel in San Francisco then head to Sausalito for some beautiful views of the bay area, complete with a short walk to a viewpoint and a drive across the famous Golden Gate Bridge. Receive your tour documentation and spend some time going over the route while enjoying dinner as a group; a drink and appetizer is on us. One night in San Francisco.

Day 2: San Francisco – Monterey

Today’s drive takes us along the beautiful California coast to Monterey. Stop at the Ano Nuevo State Reserve for a two hour walk along the Pacific coast to see the largest mainland breeding colony of elephant seals. During the winter months the elephant seals are breeding and babies and families can be viewed interacting on the beaches. Lunch stop will be at a place full of history, San Juan Bautista at an “old California style” restaurant. After lunch visit the Spanish mission San Juan Bautista with it’s impressive history and charm. The evening is spent at the Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey. One night in Monterey.

Day 3: Monterey – Morro Bay

Drive along the magnificent coastal Hwy 1 with spectacular views over rugged cliffs out onto the ocean. Known a Big Sur this region includes 90 miles of coastline and stops along the way allow for shorter walks and viewpoints. Towards evening arrive in Morro Bay with its quaint downtown of galleries and restaurants. Enjoy views of Morro Rock and stroll along the waterfront. One night in Morro Bay.

Day 4: Morro Bay – Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Park

Today’s drive takes us to Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks where we step into the heart of winter. Giant old groves of Sequoia trees, rugged foothills and deep canyons welcome us in this beautiful, diverse and little visited area. The next two nights are spent in the heart of Kings Canyon National Park.

Day 5: Sequoia Kings Canyon National Park

Snowshoe through this winter wonderland or partake in other wintertime activities hosted by the lodge. There are guided walks and individual options. With beautiful views and cozy rooms there’s time for relaxation and adventure! Second Night Kings Canyon NP.

Day 6: Sequoia NP – Yosemite National Park

Today’s drive takes us to the rightly famous Yosemite National Park. In the morning a trip leads to spectacular overlooks of Kings Canyon, with steep cliffs and huge expanses (drive dependent on weather/road conditions). The evening is spent in Yosemite National Park. Two nights near Yosemite National Park.

Day 7: Yosemite National Park

The whole day is spent exploring magnificent Yosemite National Park, with its picturesque deep valley surrounded by giant granite cliffs and spotted with waterfalls. Our day is complete with waterfall views, a chance for photos from the famous “tunnel view”, and a visit to the Ansell Adams Gallery. A short walk takes us to a lookout over Bridalveil Falls. There is time to explore the stops offered on the park’s shuttle bus and, depending on snow conditions, snowshoes can be rented. Sunset in Yosemite Valley comes early this time of year, and with a little luck lights up the sky.

Day 8: Yosemite National Park – San Francisco

Enjoy the sunrise in Yosemite before heading back to San Francisco. In the afternoon, we get to know the famous San Francisco highlights. We eat dinner as a group (not included) then head back to our hotel for our last tour night.

Day 9: San Francisco – tour ends

Continue your independent travel or fly home. We are happy to help you arrange accommodations and give you suggestions for activities in and around San Francisco.