Southern California's Central Valley

The drive across California's gentle, golden hills into the Central Valley is an enjoyable, peaceful experience. State Route 48 takes us eastward out of Paso Robles through Cholame, scene of the tragic automobile accident that claimed the life of acting idol James Dean so many years ago. Along the way, we are surrounded by rolling hills and vast ranchlands. Occasionally, a vineyard or a farm will appear, but for the most part these are the wide open spaces common to Western folklore. The towns are small and far between. Billboards and other signs of civilization are seldom encountered. This guide explores the region fully, with an emphasis on outdoor activities, from golf and birdwatching to wine tours, watersports and hiking. Touring chapters take you to all the well-known sights, and then lead you off to unusual attractions that will amuse and delight you. Accommodation sections cover all, from camping to B&Bs to historical houses. Restaurants and cafes are chosen for their charm and impressive cuisine. Often, doing something that you've done a dozen times before, but doing it in a different place, at a different time, or with a different person can make all the difference. Under the right circumstances, even the routine can become an adventure. Everything in life is an adventure. At least, it is the first time you experience it. Every sight, every sound, every scent, every taste, every sensation is an adventure that once. Why? Because it is a discovery. And every new discovery is an adventure. So, the authors dedicate this book to discovery: to experiencing new places, new people, new activities, new sensations, but above all, to discovering new dimensions within ourselves.