Get your motor running…

t can hardly be a coincidence that the name California comes from a 16th-century Spanish novel describing a mythical paradise. No US state has greater resonance, influence or diverse beauty. Its culture and industry remain transformative. Its movie industry continues to shape our imagination while its digital corporations are driving the next global industrial revolution. Its incredible landscape is distinguishable by 1,100 miles of rugged Pacific coastline and golden beaches, the high mountains of the Sierra Nevada, deserts and dense forests of redwood trees. This environment supports wolves, cougars, bears, elk, whales and bald eagles. These factors, plus being home to some of America’s most notable cities – such as San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco – make it a magnet for travellers the world over.

The Golden State calls for more than one trip to take in its great outdoors, snake up the Pacific highway and visit the big cities