Day 1 – Welcome to California’s Big Sur Coast

Flight to San Jose, CA. Our transportation awaits us to take us to Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea, located on the stunning Monterey Peninsula, a historic city with a deep connection to the sea. We will explore the scenic Monterey Bay Coastal Trail along Ocean View Boulevard to take in outstanding views of the ocean overlooking the Pacific Grove Marine Gardens State Conservation Area. Other stops here are at the John Denver Memorial and Point Pinos Lighthouse. We will break for browsing time along Monterey’s famous Cannery Row, a waterfront street once home to the region’s sardine-packing industry, and Old Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can watch sea otters and seals play in the water. We will have dinner out after checking into our overnight accommodations for the next 3 nights! (D)

Day 2 – Exploring Pacific Hwy 1 and Monterey

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel every morning. Our short drive leads us to Big Sur along California’s Pacific Highway 1. We will stop first at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, and called the “crown jewel” of the California State Park system. We will leisurely explore the flat trails to watch for marine life and enjoy the breathtaking views. As we continue south, take in the sweeping vistas of the coastline and hidden coves. Traveling with a small group allows plenty of time for pull-off photo stops along the way. Enjoy a picnic lunch today with a view of the sea. We will also see iconic landmarks such as McWay Falls, where a waterfall cascades directly into the ocean, and Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges in the world. There will be time for browsing at the Big Sur General Store. After a day of “awe” moments and exceptional scenery, we will return to our hotel. (B, D)

Day 3 – Carmel by the Sea and Carmel Valley

Our beautiful morning drive through the scenic Santa Lucia Mountains leads us to the village of Carmel Valley - in the heart of the Big Sur wine region. We will enjoy a tasting at one of the valley’s famed wineries. Have lunch in town on your own before a stop at the quaint Carmel Valley Creamery, creators of artisan cheeses, ice cream, and gelato. This afternoon, we will visit the famous Carmel Mission Basilica Museum. Originally built in 1797, it is one of the most authentically restored missions and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Spanish Adobe buildings, gardens, and courtyard are stunning. Our group dinner is along the wharf this evening. (B, D)

Day 4 – Redwood Forest Steam Train

Today we go deep into the Big Sur redwood forest onboard the Redwoods Forest Steam Train. Led by the oldest and most authentically preserved narrow-gauge steam engines, our train travels over trestles, through towering old-growth redwood groves, and up a winding grade to the summit of Bear Mountain. Conductors narrate the history of Roaring Camp, the railroad, and the forest. After our two-hour journey, we will have time to visit the village of Roaring Camp before lunch, browsing the ancient trees at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. This evening, we will stay overnight near San Jose and have our farewell dinner out in town. (B, D)

Day 5 – Returning home

This morning, we will enjoy a stop to reflect on the amazing memories from this fabulous journey as our afternoon flight returns us to St. Louis. (B)