Inspiration for your own tailor-made trip
United States - The West Coast
100% customisable for you
Head to the airport, breeze through security and board your 11-hour flight from London to Phoenix, Arizona. Upon arrival in Arizona, collect your hire car and drive to Scottsdale (a high-end suburb of Phoenix).
Check into your contemporary hotel overlooking the desert and unwind after your long flight with a dip in the pool or a relaxing hotel spa treatment, before tucking into some Arizona-style dishes. Then grab some much-needed shut-eye before your road trip begins tomorrow.
Rise and shine, today marks the first day of your road trip. Set off from scenic Scottsdale and drive two-and-a-half hours to Sedona, winding past cactus fields and desert landscapes. Take a detour into Jerome, a historic mining town tucked away in the heart of 'Red Rock Country’. Once a source of inspiration for Western writers, today the city attracts a new-age community of artists.
As you arrive in Sedona, take a moment to admire the sun-scorched city’s red-rock cliffs and steep canyons. Check into your cosy accommodation, which will be your home for the next two nights, then head out to explore the bohemian cafes and art galleries that line Uptown Sedona.
On your second day, hop in a jeep and discover the city’s stunning natural landscape on a tour of the backcountry with a local guide who will share their insider knowledge and bring the area to life.
Hop back in your rental car and hit the road again, bound for the Grand Canyon. Watch as Arizona's cactus-dotted scenery gives way to lofty pine trees, with temperatures cooling as you approach the Grand Canyon. Stretching 277 miles long and 18 miles wide, this natural marvel is hard to miss.
Explore the Grand Canyon on foot along a glass walkway that allows you to safely advance to the precipice’s edge. Or, if you want to go all-out, take to the skies in a helicopter ride (which we can arrange as part of your itinerary) to admire this natural marvel in all its glory.
After a two-and-a-half-hour drive, you’ll arrive at your hotel, perched on the rim of the Canyon, with breathtaking views. Spend the afternoon stretching your legs on a hike or enjoying a horseback ride along one of the nearby trails.
After a hearty breakfast, wave goodbye to the Grand Canyon and set off on a three-and-a-half-hour drive towards Monument Valley. A place that has captured the world’s imagination since 1939, when John Ford directed the famous Western film Stagecoach among its soaring red rocks, the valley is a must-visit. Your accommodation here is designed with the sacred surroundings in mind, blending seamlessly into the valley’s rocks.
As one of the most photographed natural wonders in the American West, we recommend keeping your camera on hand as you enjoy a guided tour of Monument Valley’s remote areas with an English-speaking Navajo guide. Pass striking sandstone arches and marvel at towering buttes that rise from the desert floor while learning about this sacred land’s rich traditions, culture and history.
Your next stop along the West Coast is Page, home to the picturesque Lake Powell. This journey takes about two hours and passes through the Painted Desert, with its parade of red, orange, pink and grey rocks.
At 186 miles long, with 96 canyons and 1,960 miles of coastline, Lake Powell is the largest artificial lake in the United States and one of the highlights of the West.
After you’ve checked into your comfortable hotel near the lake, it’s time to explore your surroundings. Hop in a kayak and padel around the reservoir, or head off the beaten track on a tour of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, through the sandy hills of the Navajo lands.
Make your way from Northern Arizona toward Southern Utah, swapping calm lakes for craggy canyons. During the two-and-a-half-hour drive to Springdale, make a pit stop in Kanab and admire the imposing Vermilion Cliffs soaring out of the arid landscape.
On arrival at Springdale, relax in your western-style lodge, complete with warm tones and cosy furnishings. This is the ideal spot to soak up uninterrupted views of Zion National Park’s ochre-hued cliffs.
During your stay here, enjoy a guided hike through the national park or, for fewer crowds, opt for a day trip to Bryce Canyon and explore its striking scenery.
Today, leave the landscapes of Springdale behind and make for the bright lights of Las Vegas. Start your journey early for the three-hour drive, which includes scenic stops along the way. Enjoy a swim at Sand Hollow State Park and a stroll around the volcanic landscape of Snow Canyon State Park before continuing to Vegas.
On arrival in Sin City, neon lights will greet you, a stark contrast to the desert landscapes you’ve just encountered. Your home for the next two nights is at one of the Strip's luxurious hotels, equipped with a spa and pool. Tuck into a delicious dinner with a refreshing cocktail and head up to bed for some shut eye ready for a day of city exploration tomorrow.
As America's gaming capital and a symbol of eccentricity, Las Vegas lights up the Nevada desert day and night. Spend the morning as you please then head out for lunch before taking a stroll along the Strip with its casino-themed hotels and eccentric crowds. Head back to your hotel for a breather and prepare for a lively night ahead.
In the evening, the city is your oyster. Lose yourself in the frenzy of Downtown Vegas, admire the views from the 550ft Observation Wheel, experience a Cirque du Soleil performance or, for a quieter setting, indulge in delicious dishes at a Michelin-starred restaurant (your clued-up Concierge can suggest the top spots).
Wake up bright and early for a long day of driving ahead. Tuck into a tasty breakfast, stock up on snacks and hop back in your hire car bound for Mammoth Lakes in California. The journey to this small mountain resort takes around five hours, winding past vast landscapes – a far cry from the neon lights of Las Vegas.
Spend the night in a snug resort perched on the slopes of the Sierra Nevada and rest up before your journey into the UNESCO-listed Yosemite National Park tomorrow.
Your next stop is Yosemite National Park, around two-and-a-half hours away. This natural marvel is home to granite domes, majestic lakes, cascading waterfalls and giant redwood forests, not to mention hundreds of birds and mammals.
With so much to see, three nights will give you plenty of time to take it all in. Check into a rustic lodge at the edge of the Merced River, close to the park’s entrance, and enjoy postcard-perfect views overlooking the river.
During your stay, dine at the hotel restaurant and enjoy the pool and spa facilities for some well-deserved R&R. Feeling well rested? Lace up your walking boots and discover the full scope of the park’s natural wonders on a guided hike. Along the way, you’ll visit the groves of giant sequoia trees and see the Grizzly Giant – one of the park’s most famous trees.
This morning, hit the road bright and early for a four-hour drive to San Francisco. Say goodbye to pine forests and rocky domes and hello to the wild Pacific West Coast along Route 140. During the journey, keep an eye out for charming Western towns along the way.
As you approach San Francisco Bay, soak in views of the city’s iconic skyline peeking through the fog. Settle into a comfortable and authentic boutique hotel in Fisherman’s Wharf, just a stone’s throw from the must-see North Beach neighbourhood. Put your feet up and unpack; this will be your base for the next three nights
In San Francisco, you’ll find iconic sites at every turn, from the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island to Lombard Street and Russian Hill.
What better way to discover the city than with the help of a local guide? Begin your walking tour in Chinatown before heading to North Beach, which influenced the hippie movement. Next, explore the Jackson Square Historic District, home to the 1850s houses that survived the 1906 earthquake and fires, offering a glimpse into San Francisco’s past. Fans of Hitchcock’s Vertigo will likely recognise Ernie's Restaurant, where Scottie and Madeleine met for the first time. Wrap up your walk on a lofty rooftop for 360-degree views of Nob Hill, Chinatown, Telegraph Hill, the bay and its islands.
If cycling is more your style, opt for a self-guided bike tour of the Golden Gate Bridge and Sausalito.
You’re on the move again, and this time you’re heading to Monterey. During the two-hour drive, make a pit stop at Elkhorn Slough Marine Reserve (which supports one of California’s most extensive coastal salt marshes) and kayak near otters, sea lions and seals.
Once you arrive in Monterey, a former fishing port turned popular resort, check into your Mediterranean-villa-style hotel which will be your home for the next two nights.
While you’re here, visit the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and (depending on the time of year you’re visiting) head out on a whale watching trip. This sanctuary is one of the largest and most abundant national marine reserves in the United States, making it the perfect spot to witness these ocean giants in action.
Today, the adventure continues as you drive south to Santa Barbara, along panoramic Highway One. Follow the twists and turns of the ocean on this scenic four-hour journey, admiring the sweeping coastline which is often punctuated by lighthouses and lookout points.
With its white-washed stucco houses, red-tile roofs and palm-lined beaches, it’s no wonder Santa Barbara has been dubbed the American Riviera. Spend two nights at a hotel with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and an enviable location, just a short walk from the Marina and Stearns Wharf.
Gear up for an hour-and-a-half drive to Los Angeles this morning, where you’ll spend the next three nights. There’s no shortage of must-see spots here, from Malibu and Santa Monica’s beaches to Hollywood’s sparkling Walk of Fame.
After a bite to eat, the day is yours to play with. Head to Brentwood and take a tram to the immense Getty Centre museum, sunbathe on the beach, or hike up the Griffith Observatory for panoramic city views.
For an active adventure during your stay, embark on a bike tour of Santa Monica and Venice Beach, cycling along the famous boardwalks. Or for a peek behind the scenes, enjoy a guided tour of Warner Bros. Studio. We could even arrange entry tickets for you to spend a day at Universal Studios Hollywood, where you can explore film sets and enjoy thrilling rides.
Had your fill of LA? Round off your road trip in serene San Diego. Just two hours from the ‘City of Angels’, this laid-back destination offers beautiful beaches and a charming Old Town.
Check into your cosy hotel and stretch your legs on a walk around the iconic Balboa Park. Pop into one of the 17 museums dotted around the park or visit its renowned San Diego Zoo. For a change of pace, hop on a bike and explore the city’s peaceful cycle paths while soaking up the scenic views.
Unfortunately, your West Coast adventure has come to an end. After a final day spent exploring San Diego, board your ten-and-a-half-hour flight back to London this evening, which will arrive the next day.
Everything in this itinerary is entirely customisable, down to the smallest details. Here are some more suggestions of what could be included
Each of our trips is entirely tailor-made with originality, quality and cultural immersion in mind. Our team of destination specialists will craft itineraries based on your tastes, using their first-hand knowledge and the help of our in-country team of Concierges and guides. All trips are accompanied by a wide range of additional services, including a 24-hour helpline, the Original Travel app, fast-track airport services and much more.
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Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
