America Western States fly drive holiday over 3 weeks
SUGGESTED ITINERARY
Day 1
Fly from London to Las Vegas
After collecting your luggage and clearing US immigration make your way to the Bellagio hotel, located on the world renowned Las Vegas Strip, where you will be spending the first two nights of your amazing America holiday.
Welcome to one of the most exciting cities in the World. Adults, and families, are finding this city in the desert to be a great place to visit and live year round. Plenty of sun and a very dry climate can be found mostly year round which means lots of time to enjoy the outdoors either active or simply lounging by the pool. Of course, a visit to Las Vegas has to include the world famous Strip - just minutes away. You'll be amazed by all the lights and action at the world famous casinos. They have excellent food, entertainment and shopping at all hours of the night.
You can't visit Las Vegas without seeing a show, Las Vegas truly is the Entertainment Capital of the World and the possibilities are endless. Whether your tastes are traditional - spectacular showgirl revues or talented lounge crooners - or more contemporary, you'll find something that will amaze and delight you.
Bellagio - Las Vegas
Take one step onto the fountain-fronted property at Bellagio Las Vegas, and you will instantly find yourself transported to an elegant European resort, replete with lavish rooms, award-winning restaurants and a luxurious spa, all the while surrounded by works from the world's most renowned artists.
From the natural light bathing the lobby through glass ceilings to the fresh flowers and trees of the Bellagio Conservatory and Gardens, whose displays change five times a year, everything about Bellagio tells you that you're not in Las Vegas anymore
While you may not want to leave your posh accommodations, with contemporary custom furniture, fine art, sunken bathtubs and such conveniences as high-speed Internet access, there's much to see and do, eat and buy here.
The accommodations at Bellagio have also been completely updated. Three unique designs transport guests to a warm and elegant world replete with modern conveniences. Among the amenities are a custom pillow-top mattress, original artwork by Damon Clarke, a 40-inch Samsung HD television, a media hub, a laptop-sized nightstand safe and a bedside iHome docking station.
The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art exhibits paintings, sculpture and works on paper by the world's most influential artists.
The international cast of Cirque du Soleil's "O" - synchronized swimmers, divers, acrobats and aerialists - performs in a theatre reminiscent of the Paris Opera House. Or you can revel in live music and views of Lake Bellagio at Fontana bar.
Dining devotees will not only be pleased with Bellagio's first-rate dining options -- they will be absolutely dazzled. From the AAA Five-Diamond Award-winning fare of both Le Cirque and Picasso to the Mediterranean-American delights of Todd English's Olives, the only dining problem you'll find at Bellagio is how to choose amongst the amazing restaurant selection. Casual eats are also available at Café Bellagio, Noodles and The Buffet. And guests can enjoy sweet treats at Café Gelato and the Palio Café.
Along Via Bellagio, you'll find such upscale boutiques as Giorgio Armani, Chanel, Prada and Tiffany & Co.
In the spacious, European-inspired casino, try your luck at blackjack, European roulette or pai gow, or in the popular poker room or the race and sports book.
Lounge by the pool in a Mediterranean Villa-style setting with relaxing pools, soothing spas and private cabanas surrounded by citrus and parterre gardens.
Don't take our word for it, however. Discover for yourself the rare experience Bellagio has to offer, and find your own extraordinary piece of Europe in the centre of the Las Vegas Strip.
Day 3
After enjoying your American breakfast it’s time to pack your bags and make your way to the car hire depot to collect your car for the first leg of your amazing fly drive holiday.
Time to leave the bright lights of Las Vegas behind and head out into the Canyon Lands, your destination is Zion National Park.
Zion National Park offers the photographer many opportunities to explore colour, texture, and light. From the valley floor to the highest plateau the scenes change at every turn. Foliage on trails will make an excellent frame for your scenes. Sunrise and sunset present significant changes to lighting on the faces of canyon walls. There is plenty of wildlife (Turkeys, Deer, Lizards, Insects, Squirrels and other birds) to view and the river through the park is spectacular. When it rains you’ll find an even more spectacular experience with waterfalls coming down over every rock face. A visit into David's gallery during your visit is a must.
We are suggesting the Zion Lodge as your accommodation for tonight
Zion Lodge
Welcome to Zion Lodge - The only "in-park" lodging at Zion National Park!
The name "Zion" means a place of peace and refuge. As a sanctuary with over 146,000 acres of cliffs, canyons, diverse plant and animal life, and uninterrupted beauty, Zion is well-named. Its massive sandstone walls, some as high as 3,800 feet, offer an opportunity for serenity and reflection for all who visit.
Designed by Gilbert Stanley Underwood in the 1920s, the Zion Lodge was destroyed by fire in 1966. That same year, the lodge was rebuilt in 100 days, quickly restoring the influx of visitors to Zion, but sacrificing the hotel's rustic design. In 1990, the exterior was restored to its original classic appearance.
The lodge features historic cabins with two double beds, full bath, gas log fireplace and private porch. All rooms feature air conditioning, phones, radio alarm clocks and hairdryers. The lodge is open year-round, featuring special winter rates and packages December through mid-March.
Red Rock Grill, Zion Lodge's recently renovated dining room, boasts spectacular views of the magnificent surroundings. Reservations are required. Casual, outdoor dining can be found at the seasonal Castle Dome Cafe, which offers relaxed seating and park fare favourites.
Day 4
Moving further into the Canyon Lands toady you are heading for Bryce Canyon a distance of 88 miles that should take you about 2 hours.
Bryce Canyon is known for its spectacular hoodoos, fiery colours, and endless vistas, but when the sun sets upon the canyon another impressive scene takes the stage. Bryce Canyon has some of the darkest, starriest night skies in the country! Boasting clear mountain air and a location far from city lights and other light pollution, the night sky is certain to enchant the Milky Way, our own galaxy stretching brilliantly across the sky or the ghostly hoodoos bathed in moonlight. The ranger staff provides several night programs, including telescope viewing, constellation tours, full moon hikes, and astronomy talks. See the sky that our ancestors once knew, and share one of the rarest views with your family and friends — the unspoiled view of the cosmos.
For your 2 nights in Bryce we would suggest the Bryce Canyon Lodge
Bryce Canyon Lodge
This attractive lodge is right inside the park ideally located close to the rim of beautiful Bryce Canyon. The lodge is on the National Historic Register and it has been restored to its original rustic 1920s elegance, right down to replicas of the original hickory furniture.
The cabins have 2 queen-size beds, gas log fireplace, private porch, full bath and telephone.
Surrounded by the majestic Ponderosa Pine Forest, the dining room is a wonderful place to relax and take in the inspiring beauty of Bryce and enjoy dining in the style of rustic elegance from the 1930's. The dining room is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, serving a variety of appetizers, salads and entrées as well as a tasteful selection of vegetarian dishes. They also offer an international wine list and a selection of local microbrew beers.
Thanks to the great location "in-the-park" guests have easy access to the many programs offered by Bryce Canyon National Park.
Park rangers and volunteers conduct interpretive activities including hikes, rim walks, geology talks, moonlight hikes, astronomy programs and slideshows from late spring through early fall. Topics vary and include plants, animals, geology, archaeology, human history, and much more. Schedules for summer interpretive programs will be posted in early May at the Bryce Canyon National Park website, the park visitor centre and Bryce Canyon Lodge. All Ranger-Led activities and programs are free.
Day 6
If you can tear yourself away from the stunning red landscapes of Bryce then it’s time to head for southern Utah, close to the border with Arizona, your destination the absolutely stunning Lake Powell, it’s a distance of 150 miles that will take you approximately 2¾ hours.
Lake Powell - From twisting slot canyons to hanging gardens, from lofty peaks to mesas, Lake Powell provides access to some of the most amazing scenery and geological formations on the Colorado Plateau. Named in honour of Civil War veteran and one-armed explorer John Wesley Powell, who led the first successful scientific expedition down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon, this lake provides unlimited hours of entertainment. Enjoy the turquoise waters aboard a high-speed motorboat touring the lake’s 3,219 kilometres (2,000 miles) of shoreline, or simply enjoy some quiet beach time in one of the many hidden away bays. For those who enjoy lake fishing, Lake Powell is an ideal location for catching small mouth, large mouth and striped bass.
For tonight's accommodation we are suggesting the Lake Powell Resort
Lake Powell Resort
Lake Powell Resort is located at Wahweap Marina in the heart of all your down-lake activities and adventures. Right on the lake, and just minutes from Page, AZ, Lake Powell Resort accommodates you with comfortable lodging, terrific dining and great shopping.
This is your gateway to virtually unlimited land and water adventures and fun family activities. Whether it's a spectacular boat cruise, a great meal, a double cappuccino, or the hottest new wake-boarding gear, you’ll find it at Lake Powell Resort. The Lake Powell Resort now offers wireless Internet access in the lobby and the Driftwood Lounge!
Dine in the Rainbow Room and take in magnificent views of the lake's sapphire-blue water, Wahweap Marina and the beautiful red rock buttes beyond as you enjoy the tasty creations of Lake Powell's Executive Chef Brandon Shubert. Start your day with the bountiful breakfast buffet.
In addition to its stunning lake-view setting, the Driftwood Lounge offers you a mouth-watering variety of pub meals, appetisers and snacks, plus a great variety of adult beverages. The relaxing atmosphere is perfect for socialising with friends, trading stories of the day's adventures on the water or watching a sporting event on TV.
Many of the delicious offerings from the Rainbow Room, Driftwood Lounge and Bene Pizza are also available right in the comfort of your Lake Powell Resort guest room. Just check out the room service menu in your in-room guest directory.
Day 7
As your amazing adventure continues you are heading for the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, your journey takes you through the Navajo Nation's Monument Valley Park where you will experience one of the most majestic - and most photographed - points on earth.
The Grand Canyon is a gift that transcends our day-to-day experience. Its beauty and size can humble us, and in its vast spaces many find solace from their hectic lives.
Gaze up at craggy orange crevasses and towering rock formations from inside the magnificent Grand Canyon, shooting into a cloudless sky for over a mile. The winding Colorado River twists into the distance and the hum of an occasional helicopter descending into a valley draws your eyes to a miniscule spec against the scale of this mighty natural wonder. It’s hard to believe this astounding canyon is 277 miles long. Don’t miss a different view from the new Grand Canyon Skywalk, an amazing glass-bottomed observation deck 70 feet over the canyon’s rim – it will make your head spin!
Today’s driving distance is approximately 145 miles and should take you about 2¾ hours.
For your two nights at the Canyon we are suggesting the El Tovar
El Tovar Hotel
El Tovar Hotel, the premier lodging facility at the Grand Canyon, opened its doors in 1905.
In the past, the Hotel has hosted such luminaries as Theodore Roosevelt, Albert Einstein, Western author Zane Grey, and many others.
Today, El Tovar retains its elegant charm. Located on the Canyon rim, it features a fine dining room (open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner), lounge and curio shop with newsstand. El Tovar offers its guests Concierge, turn-down and room service and is a Registered National Historic Landmark.
El Tovar Hotel has 78 rooms and suites, all with cable television, telephone, full bath and air conditioning. Standard rooms have one double, one queen, or two queen beds. Deluxe rooms have either two queens or one king bed. Suites have a bedroom with either two queens or one king bed, and a sitting room, and some of the suites have a porch or balcony.
All rooms are non-smoking. Some rooms and suites will accommodate a roll-away bed, which would be subject to availability and cannot be reserved.
Gourmet dining in an atmosphere of casual elegance is what's on the menu at the El Tovar Dining Room, located in the historic El Tovar Hotel.
it features a majestic dining room constructed of native stone and Oregon pine and traditional in decor and ambience. The El Tovar dining room and hotel is built perpendicular to the rim, so a few tables offer a canyon view. The Canyon room also offers great views of the rim.
El Tovar Dining Room accommodates seating for 211 and the bar seats 60. Window seats can be requested in either room, but are not reserved or guaranteed. There is also outdoor seating available on El Tovar veranda, which serves drinks and appetizers. The dining room menu blends regional and classical flavours while utilizing contemporary techniques. The El Tovar Dining Room is considered the premier dining establishment at the Grand Canyon.
Day 9
Time to head back to Las Vegas and the Mandalay Bay, tonight's suggested accommodation
Its 275 miles back to Las Vegas and the Mandalay Bay, a drive of about 4 hours
Mandalay Bay
The hotel at Mandalay Bay ushers in a new model of understated luxury, affording guests a haven of sophistication and service on par with the best boutique hotels in the world. It’s elegantly appointed suites and stylish lobby areas set a tone of confident discretion, while it’s carefully tailored roster of amenities provide an unparalleled atmosphere for attending to both business and pleasure.
Whether you ever actually sleep in your room, or ever choose to leave it, all of the rooms and suites have been designed to make you feel perfectly at ease every waking, sleeping and relaxing moment.
A perfect night's sleep-that's what the hotel sought to create, the theme for the rooms is casual elegance and comfort using warm textiles in pleasing tones to create the perfect environment for effortless relaxation or sweet dreams. The hotel at Mandalay Bay has forever changed the perception of Las Vegas with its warm earthy tones, rich wood architecture and of course its modern cosmopolitan feel.
Featuring the most recognisable names and incredible venues throughout the culinary world, Mandalay Bay offers the best restaurants in all of Las Vegas. From steak and seafood to eclectic menu creations, there is literally something for every taste.
Mandalay Bay offers a wide array of venues in which to see Las Vegas concerts. From a 12,000-seat arena, to a Broadway-style theatre, from beach-side concerts to an old fashioned blues club, the perfect place to see the shows of your dreams.
Shark Reef Aquarium - No resort is complete without exotic natural wonders. At Shark Reef you can see all kinds — sawfish, giant rays, endangered green sea turtles, piranha, jellyfish and the rare golden crocodile, to name a few. In all, there are over 2,000 animals in 1.6 million gallons of water.
Day 10
Once again its time to leave the bright lights of Las Vegas behind and head out into the Desert, your destination is Death Valley.
The land of extremes is a good way to describe Death Valley. The lowest point in the country is in the Death Valley National Park, at 282 feet below the sea level. Death Valley’s highest point is at 11, 049 feet, so there is a lot of different terrain in and around Death Valley. Despite the record high temperatures and below freezing winter and night time temperatures, Death Valley National Park can be the setting for a rugged outdoor leg of your California vacation.
It should take you about 2¼ to drive to Death Valley; it’s a distance of 120 miles.
For your accommodation tonight we have selected the Inn at Furnace Creek Ranch
The Inn at Furnace Creek
The jewel of Death Valley
An elegant hideaway for more than 87 years, The Inn at Furnace Creek is a AAA-rated four-diamond resort that still pampers every guest. It’s the perfect place to reclaim your senses as you relax near the spring-fed pool, stroll through palm gardens to the melody of the natural springs, shop for unique items in the gift shop, watch a glorious sunset from one of the quaint stone patios or enjoy a cool drink from Stargazers Deck.
The Inn at Furnace Creek Dining - The Inn Dining Room offers fine dining at breakfast, lunch, and dinner with stunning views of the desert salt pans and the majestic Panamint Mountains. The Dining Room proudly serves an eclectic menu incorporating classical, continental, south-western and pacific-rim influences. Guests are also invited to enjoy an Afternoon Tea or Sunday Brunch featuring everything from the finest smoked salmon to a delectable selection of pastries.
Dinner Attire - Please note that the dress code for dinner is “resort attire.” T-shirts or tank tops are not appropriate.
Room Service - Breakfast, lunch, or dinner can be served in the comfort of your guestroom.
Day 11
We would suggest an early today as you move from the barrenness of the desert to the awe-inspiring scenery of Yosemite, Yosemite is not just a great Valley but a shrine to human foresight, strength of granite, power of glaciers, the persistence of life, and the tranquillity of the High Sierra.
The Yosemite Valley is known for its breath-taking sheer walls and valley floor. The Valley's evolution began when alpine glaciers permeated through the canyon of the Merced River. Ice carved through the granite leaving such intriguing rock formations as El Capitan and Cathedral Rocks. The Valley is home to a variety of wildlife and the most majestic waterfalls of the world. The beauty of Yosemite is unsurpassed and is a favourite of nature lovers and photographers.
Today’s you will be driving for approximately 6 hours, a distance of 300 miles
For you four night stay in Yosemite we are suggesting a cabin at the Redwoods, cabins are well equipped and most have private terrace barbecues and patio furniture
The Redwoods in Yosemite
Enjoy all the comforts of home and the majesty of Yosemite National Park, season after season, at The Redwoods in Yosemite. Choose an intimate log cabin for your romantic getaway or bring the entire family to stay in one of the spacious vacation homes. The Redwoods in Yosemite is the perfect choice for a family vacation.
The cabins have three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a huge private deck with gas BBQ for outdoor dining. The cabin comfortably sleeps up to six guests and has a TV/VCR's and a fireplace, (they provide the wood). The fully equipped kitchen also has a dishwasher. The cabins are secluded and spacious, your home away from home.
After a delightful day of hiking along riverside trails, taking a dip in a swimming hole shaped by the currents of the Merced River, standing in awe of the giant sequoia trees, waterfalls and many mountain peaks, relax by a crackling fire, stargaze at the night sky, and remember why it is that generations of travellers have created cherished family memories at these Yosemite cabin rental homes nestled in the forest near the river and the falls. Your own family tradition is awaiting you at The Redwoods in Yosemite.
Day 15
A pleasant 130 mile 2½ hour journey ahead of you today as you make your way to the coast and the city of San Francisco
From Golden Gate Bridge to the historic Cable Cars, San Francisco is a hip and intoxicating destination, alive with attractions, museums, art galleries, nightclubs, restaurants, festivals, entertainment and riveting city tours. You will be captivated by San Francisco’s eclectic neighbourhoods, Victorian homes, cultural diversity and dramatic scenery. From Golden Gate Bridge to the historic Cable Cars, San Francisco is a hip and intoxicating destination, alive with attractions, museums, art galleries, nightclubs, restaurants, festivals, entertainment and riveting city tours. You will be captivated by San Francisco’s eclectic neighbourhoods, Victorian homes, cultural diversity and dramatic scenery.
Experience the essence of San Francisco at Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, the San Francisco Zoo, Alcatraz, Union Square, The Presidio, Yerba Buena Gardens, the Theatre District, The Asian Art Museum, Chinatown and the diversity of nearby eateries, cafés and shops that colour lively streets. Escape to San Francisco where your heart will embrace a culture as unique as San Francisco's enchanting coastal panorama.
For your three nights in San Francisco we have selected the Grand Hyatt hotel, the premier choice among Union Square hotels.
Grand Hyatt San Francisco
Treat yourself to the premier choice among Union Square hotels - Grand Hyatt San Francisco. Pampering amenities and welcoming staff await you at this gracious hotel, while all the city's delights beckon from just outside our doors. Enjoy unequalled access to world-class shopping, Chinatown, museums, the theatre and the many famous sights of this vibrant metropolis, all just minutes away. Within this elegant downtown San Francisco hotel, revel in sumptuous accommodations with stunning views and irresistible sumptuous dining; experience the ultimate luxury hotel in downtown San Francisco, California
Enjoy spacious, 312-sq.-ft. San Francisco rooms offering floor-to-ceiling views of the Bay, or Union Square and downtown, including one king or two double Grand Beds with ultra-plush pillows, soft sheeting, and thick down blankets - all piled atop irresistible pillow-top mattresses. Amenities in this luxurious downtown San Francisco hotel rooms include rich decor, high-speed Internet access, deluxe bath products and daily newspaper.
Day 18
Today’s you will be driving down the Pacific Coast as you make your way to Carmel, driving distance is about 130 miles an approximate driving time of 2¼ hours.
World-renowned for its European charm, beautiful white-sand beach, performing arts, and hundreds of shops, art galleries, and restaurants, Carmel-by-the-Sea was rated a top-ten destination in the United States by Conde Nast Traveller. Like a jewel found along California's Central Coast, Carmel-by-the-Sea has the sophistication of San Francisco and the glamour of Hollywood nestled into one of most beautiful landscapes in the world.
Seasoned celebrities come to Carmel to blend like chameleons into this community by the sea. It’s where movie stars can have a romantic getaway, talk-show hosts can join girlfriends at a spa, writers can hang out at a local pub, and dignitaries can make reservations for dinner. It’s a place with charm and sophistication that makes everyone feel like a celebrity
When you reach Carmel you will be spending the last four nights of your fabulous holiday at The Carmel Valley Ranch nestled in the pristine foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains.
Carmel Valley Ranch
Nestled in the pristine foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains - on the sunniest side of the Monterey Peninsula - Carmel Valley Ranch is an elite golf and tennis resort bursting with Northern California's natural beauty. A thoroughbred among California resorts, Carmel Valley Ranch spreads over 400 acres encircled by the mountains and the lushly landscaped grounds that surround the Pete Dye golf course.
Carmel Valley Ranch is unlike any other resort you’ve been to. Sure, it’s a perfect place to let your shoulders rest, sit by the pool and enjoy the good life. But more importantly, this is the place where you’ll sneak away to tap into that elixir of life—play, all kinds of play, for all kinds of people.
They have a collection of indoor and outdoor facilities that no other resort can match. Programs and experiences designed specifically to help you rekindle romances, rethink companies, reconnect with friends and family, and of course, revive spirits.
Good food isn't hard to come by in California, but no other resort combines the area's freshest and best ingredients, the acclaimed talents of Executive Chef Tim Wood, and the playful spirit that Carmel Valley Ranch is known for. Even Brussels sprouts taste good here.
This AAA Four-Diamond Carmel California hotel provides world-class service and amenities in an intimate setting. Retreat to the spacious, all- suite accommodations of this elegant Carmel hotel and enjoy a wood-burning fireplace and spectacular mountain views. Savour incomparable luxury and leisure in an exquisite setting:
- Located on 400 lush acres in Carmel, California
- An easy, 10-minute trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea
- Just 20 minutes from the scenic 17-Mile Drive
- Only 13 miles from Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY)
- Carmel Valley Ranch offers 139 spacious and elegantly appointed guest suites.
Why play?
It’s simple: the desire to get away is not just about decompressing (of course, decompressing can be fun, too). But getting away is also about having new experiences and trying new things. It’s about getting out of our comfort zones, or indulging in them completely. Play at Carmel Valley Ranch has the ability to reinvigorate. It’s fun, but it’s also sophisticated. It allows you to see things—work, family, life—in a new way. Playing here makes you feel human again.
Play is universal, but it’s certainly not one-size-fits-all. That’s why Carmel Valley Ranch is located on 500 of the most beautiful acres you’ll find. It’s enough room to let everyone rediscover, get to know and indulge their inner child—from world-class golf and great hiking trails to facilities just for kids and some of the best meeting spaces around.
- Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Course, an 18-hole championship golf course and driving range, designed by Pete Dye
- 9 court tennis complex including 7 resurfaced hard courts and 2 clay courts, plus a "sport court"
- The Lodge Restaurant offering delicious meals prepared from local ingredients
- The Adventure Kitchen, home to hands-on cooking demonstrations and ongoing "Ranch Chef" competitions
- 2 sun-drenched outdoor salt-water swimming pools
- Full service Spa Aiyana offering a full menu of treatments
- 2 fitness centres with state-of-the-art equipment
- Scenic hiking, biking, and running trails, winding through nearly 500 lush acres of resort grounds
- Sustainable four-acre pinot noir vineyard, year-round organic garden, and a world-class bee apiary where guests can don protective suits and engage with the hives
A 500-acre layout—along with the River Ranch, the new “resort within a resort”—allows for both “Children at Heart” and “Children at Play” to coexist like at no other resort. And they always welcome the most playful family members of all, the four-legged friends.
Day 22
Sadly all good things have to come to an end, time to reflect on your experiences of the past few weeks as enjoy your last American breakfast before packing your cases and heading to San Francisco airport returning your car to the Alamo drop off point before checking in for your flight back to Las Vegas.
The distance to the airport is 116 miles approximately a 2 hour journey
Time to board your flight back to the UK
For more information on America fly drive holidays all Joanne on 01243 779 737
Link to America Fly Drive Holidays
