Living in London it's not often you get to drive on the open road. Well, on a recent trip to Northern California, starting in San Francisco I got to do just that. After spending a few days in San Francisco with the girlfriend we rented a car and took 80 East towards Lake Tahoe which is one of the most gorgeous drives I've ever done. And when your destination is Lake Tahoe you really can't get a better package. Spending some time in Lake Tahoe, and a few nights camping was great. But we were soon on our way again down to Yosemite NP. Another breathtaking location in Nor Cal which is full of wildlife and picturesque views. Yosemite Valley is an obvious highlight. We were happy to get back to San Fran, it was a long 10 days. San Francisco remains one of my favourite cities - absolutely beautiful, even if the weather can be a bit odd sometimes!

www.avis.co.uk

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A county park that bisects the peninsula south of the main city, San Bruno mountain is accessible by car and has loads of walking and biking trails. The Saddle Trail goes through woods and leads to fantastic views of the city.

It's particularly convenient for the airport, which is why if you've got a couple of hours to kill before or after a flight it's a great antidote to the stress of air travel. Parking is $5.

Guadalupe Canyon Parkway;
For directions see www.co.sanmateo.ca.us/smc/department/home/0,,5556687_12313315_12345092,00.html#Directions

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So, you arrive in California by plane but you really want to get out of the city and visit some of the state’s amazing national parks, go trekking in the mountains and camp under the stars.

My top tip would be to hire your camping gear from this fantastic little shop in Berkley - you can get there on the BART or easily by car. They have everything you need at decent prices - tents, sleep mats, bear boxes(!), stoves, sleeping bags. So there’s no need to lug all of that gear over to the USA.

www.marmotmountain.com/rental-rates-gear-ca.htm

3049 Adeline Street, Berkley

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