The setting of songs, television and feature films everywhere
California is a land of sand, surf, sun, stars and snow (at least in the mountains.) It would be less trouble to list the things you can’t do in this absolutely stunning and all-encompassing state. Its sheer beauty has been a recurring theme in songs worldwide—for good reason; namely the sun-drenched state offers international cuisine, nearly perfect climate (all year-round) and exotic places, plants and experiences. And hey, we might as well mention that California is home to every child’s dream destinations: Disneyland, Universal Studios and SeaWorld.
Trip Ideas
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara offers a different world; one of abundant greenery and a relaxed pace where the best things in life—food, wine, and recreation—take precedence over the frantic fast pace of the city. It’s the perfect place for a getaway; a few days to shrug off the world and enjoy an American paradise.
- Cycle along the Gibraltar River and take a dip in one of many secluded swimming holes.
- Explore many of the valley’s plentiful and magnificent sprawling vineyards.
- Ride into the Danish city of Solvang, one of the most-visited places in Santa Barbara County.
Inspired? Craft a similar Bespoke guided trip starting from $1,000-$2,000 per person per night.
Sonoma & Mendocino
On this trip through Northern California, the vineyards, farms and fields of the Alexander Valley and the Russian River yield to the beaches, crashing surf and Pacific sunsets of Mendocino. In between the two lie windswept ridges, ancient redwood forests and lush river valleys beckoning for exploration.
- Cycle through famous local wine appellations, Dry Creek and Alexander Valley.
- Dine in one of the region’s best restaurants preparing organic local produce.
- Bike the Pope Valley loop ride, which showcases some of the best scenery of the region.
Inspired? Craft a similar Bespoke guided trip starting from $2,000-$3,000 per person per night.
Feature Hotels
Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort, Solvang
The Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort is a premier property on a 10,000-acre working cattle ranch. It has remained a hideaway for generations of families, couples and the famous since it opened its doors in 1946. The Alisal features two 18-hole golf courses, tennis, more than 80 km (50 mi.) of riding trails and fly fishing on its private, 100-acre Springfed Lake. Amenities include an outdoor pool with hot tub and fitness centre, but not all is modern: guest rooms are blissfully television- and telephone-free. View hotel website »
Hotel Les Mars, Healdsburg
Our intimate hotel is located right in the middle of town, within walking distance of a number of galleries, tasting rooms and shops. Created in 2005 by the Mars family, the elegant, traditional-style accommodations are part of the Relais & Châteaux group, and have received numerous accolades. Rooms feature antique furnishings, and there is a small swimming pool out back.
View hotel website »
Our Trip Designers are a special breed. Part guru, part collaborator, part mind-reader, they have the full breadth of B&R resources at their fingertips. Extraordinarily well-travelled, they’ve been there, lived there, done it, planned it and eaten it, too. With a combined geographic knowledge that’s nothing short of staggering, they can save you literally years of research. Above all, they’re incredibly good at what they do.
Accolades
“Travelling with B&R is what being alive all about. It’s action packed and incredibly invigorating with so many personal and group highlights that it’s hard to single out just one. There was a magical moment right at the beginning of the trip: looking back towards Naples on a sunlit morning over the water—fantastic.”
— Andrew Crowe
Notes from the Road
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