Where to stay in California

Belmond El Encanto is a hilltop retreat in the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains, with panoramic views overlooking the city of Santa Barbara and the Pacific Ocean beyond.

On the corner of West Carrillo and Chapala, just one block from bustling State Street and a mile from the beach, The Kimpton Canary Hotel is a perfectly positioned oasis amidst the charming city surroundings of downtown Santa Barbara.

Located just half a mile from the Big Oak Flat entrance to Yosemite National Park, the newest kid on the Yosemite block, Rush Creek Lodge, offers a contemporary eco-resort surrounded by fragrant pines and mountain views.

Nestled in 75 forest-filled acres in the California High Sierra, Tenaya Lodge is an ideal base to explore Yosemite National Park and the Southern Sierra. Located just a couple of miles from the park's south entrance and about an hour's scenic drive from Yosemite Valley

This historic and imposing grande dame of Yosemite sits in the heart of Yosemite Valley, surrounded by sheer walls of granite, tall black oaks and fragrant pines.

Just moments from the base of iconic El Capitan and surrounded on all sides by scenery to take your breath away, Yosemite Valley Lodge is located in a truly spectacular setting.

A jewel in the Pacific Coast Highway’s rugged crown is Post Ranch Inn. Perched atop a Californian cliff edge, the 100-acre Post family estate was formerly a working cattle farm.

The iconic stretch of Big Sur coastline which separates the Pacific Ocean from the Santa Lucia Mountains in western California, has long been known for its artistic influencers, forward thinkers and diverse communities.

Nestled in 28 acres of glorious gardens and vineyards in Carmel Valley, Bernardus Lodge & Spa is a true hidden gem.

Since its grand opening in 1928, this legendary Four Seasons hotel, of ‘Pretty Woman’ fame, has attracted the rich and famous with its blend of romance, elegance and glamour and an unrivalled location in the heart of Beverly Hills.

Hollywood glamour blends seamlessly with luxurious modern style in this all-suite hotel located just off Sunset Boulevard.

From its elevated setting overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the heart of Santa Monica, Le Meridien Delfina redefines the modern beach hotel. Blending sophisticated urban chic with a relaxed beach attitude, this hotel is a great choice for a stylish yet affordable stay in LA.

This cool Californian boutique sanctuary sits just a few blocks from the heart of Santa Monica, yet promises instant escapism and chic beachside living.

Beachside elegance shines bright at the fresh and contemporary Viceroy Santa Monica, located just a short stroll from the breathtaking stretch of golden beachfront. Renowned for its cutting-edge style and intimate atmosphere, this coastal retreat promises poolside relaxation and sun-kissed glamour.

The sweeping 180-degree arc of North Lake Tahoe extends from Incline Village in Nevada all the way south along the California lakeside shoreline to sparkling Emerald Bay.

In the heart of Mammoth Lakes village, The Westin Monache Resort reigns supreme. It is a brilliant hub from which to explore the Sierra Nevada mountain range in all its glory, whatever time of year you visit.

Just across the Sonoma border in Napa Valley, Carneros Resort & Spa is a picturesque haven of tranquillity and sublime style with rolling vineyard views and impeccable service.

Brother and sister duo, Joe and Catherine Bartolomei, are the vision and passion behind the idyllic and highly claimed Farmhouse Inn, a family run, super stylish, boutique retreat in the heart of Sonoma.

The charming town of Healdsburg, less than two hours from San Francisco city, is a true hidden gem and the rising star of Sonoma County. The town itself is picture perfect with stylish bars, coffee shops and 12 Michelin star restaurants.

In its former life this hipster hangout was a Westward Ho Motel and much loved Denny’s diner. Today the Ace Hotel & Swim Club is a party paradise.

In the early 1920’s Mr Walter Morgan, a businessman from San Francisco, travelled to the Mojave Desert in search of a place the local Cahuilla Indians called the ‘Land of the Eternal Sun’.

A former residential retreat built and designed by William. F. Cody in the 50’s for Hollywood producer Jack Wrather to bring his family and friends (including Marilyn Monroe), in spring 2016 L’Horizon re opened its doors as the most exclusive boutique hotel in the valley.

It’s no wonder the Hollywood elite still escape to Palm Springs for some sunshine and a party at the weekend with hotels like the Parker in town.

The grande dame of San Diego, this iconic red-tiled beachfront hotel has been wowing its guests for almost 130 years. It Known affectionately as ‘The Del’.

In the heart of San Diego's historic Gaslamp Quarter, Pendry San Diego is a stylish boutique hotel within easy reach of the city's many fabulous bars, restaurants and shops, and just a short stroll from the picturesque harbour.

On the northern shore of San Francisco bay, hidden just beyond the red iron arches of the Golden Gate Bridge, you’ll find Cavallo Point. A former army fort and the only luxury accommodation within the carefully protected 11,000 acres of the Golden Gate National Recreational Area.

Exposed brick walls, cosy fireplaces, fresh sea air and contemporary independent living encapsulate the concept of the fabulous Fairmont Ghirardelli.

The grand dame of San Francisco’s hotel scene, the Fairmont reigns supreme high on Nob Hill, boasting 360 degree views of the city skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge harbour and the rolling Californian hills beyond.

Just moments away from bustling Market Street and Union Square in the heart of San Francisco’s downtown SoMa district, the Viceroy’s cool kid on the block, Hotel Zetta, is the perfect boutique bolt hole.