San Francisco

A colorful city with Victorian charm, nestled on the edge of one of the world's most beautiful bays, San Francisco stands in stark contrast to other American cities. Its coastline, sculpted by impressive cliffs and mountains, gives it a distinctive character. The surrounding landscapes, diverse and captivating, offer a myriad of possibilities to those who know where to look. This is the other California, the Northern California, far from the Jet Set and amusement parks.

Louise Bourbonnais

Couples and solo travelers alike will appreciate the region. A trip to California is more about an active lifestyle than relaxation, although many places are ideal for unwinding. If you want to combine the pleasures of a cosmopolitan city with the opportunity to admire wild landscapes, then this is the place for you. Synonymous with abundance, it offers something for everyone, and every tourist will find their ideal vacation. The destination caters to all budgets. However, you'll need to familiarize yourself with its extensive road network.

Northern California

The Golden State is vast. The north offers a type of vacation far removed from the Hollywood glamour and theme parks of the south. While the north may seem less extravagant, it is more mythical, greener, and offers wide-open spaces that have remained untouched.

I must admit, I'm not usually drawn to cities, but San Francisco is an exception. In my opinion, it's the most beautiful city in the United States, and it alone is worth the trip. But beyond the magnificent city, there are wild beaches to discover, where imposing rocks dot the shores. People also go there to recharge in the mountains, venture out rafting on a wild river, be awestruck by giant sequoias, relax in a thalassotherapy center, or even meet a winemaker and enjoy a convivial tasting of fine wine. It has everything; you've arrived in American paradise.

The must-sees of San Francisco

Hop on a cable car, buy some kitschy souvenirs in Chinatown , and treat yourself to a trip to Fisherman's Wraft . Above all, opt for a boat tour in San Francisco Bay and walk across the impressive Golden Gate Bridge for a touch of vertigo. An iconic San Francisco landmark, the Golden Gate Bridge remains a must-see. You can easily dedicate a day to it, especially since the verdant Golden Gate Park , with its more than 50 kilometers of trails, is located nearby .

It's much more pleasant than visiting the old prison Alcatraz, a gloomy place offered by several organized tours.

I fell in love with Bodega Bay

Every time I go to San Francisco, I take advantage of the trip to visit Bodega Bay, a little-known spot just an hour's drive from the Golden Gate Bridge. It's a peaceful haven where serenity is palpable. There are fewer tourists here, especially in winter, and the temperature is still quite pleasant. A well-kept secret, the Bodega Bay Lodge and its spa on the Pacific coast are synonymous with comfort and good taste. There's also a superb golf course along the oceanfront. From there, take the famous Coastal Route 1 north. Steep and winding, it offers breathtaking ocean views. Magnificent, unspoiled beaches at the foot of the cliffs are hidden near the road. You can stop at numerous points along the coast to enjoy the views and take some photos.

Organizing your trip

Forget organized tours. The few packages available from Montreal cover vast areas and require a lot of bus travel. Go at your own pace instead; it's so easy. Autumn is my favorite season. You have the advantage of traveling as you please without reservations, since there are fewer tourists. A pleasant itinerary idea would be to spend three days exploring San Francisco, relax for three days on the Pacific coast, and then head to the mountains for a few days of fun at Lake Tahoe.

Opt for a non-stop flight from Montreal to San Francisco.

Unless you want to stay in the city, renting a car is essential.

You'll find hotels for all budgets in San Francisco.

Practical advice

A road map is essential, or better yet, a GPS. With its highways boasting 12 lanes and sometimes more, be aware that exits are available on both the right and left. As the roads are very busy, avoid rush hour when congestion is heavy, and take the time to analyze your route before setting off; you'll avoid frustration.

Be aware that some beaches are closed to swimming due to strong waves. Read the signs before venturing out; everything is clearly indicated. For some, this is a surfer's paradise.

Sample Californian wine. Free wine tasting tours are offered. Napa Valley , north of San Francisco, with its hundreds of vineyards, is very popular.