Cycle California?s Golden Wonder http://bikecycles.org/ Cycle California?s Golden Wonder San Francisco is a city of many personalities, embodying a character which cannot quite be described but rather must be experienced. Colourful houses adorn the streets and if you are walking you can gear yourself up for some steep hills – alternatively rely on cable cars to do the hard work for you. Book flights to San Francisco and you certainly won’t be disappointed. One of the icons of this city has to be the Golden Gate Bridge, often shrouded slightly mysteriously in fog. Overlooking the bay and the island of Alcatraz, one way or another you will want to take a picture of one of the most photographed bridges in the world. Hiring bikes is a great way to access the bridge and you can cycle right across to Marin Country on the other side. You will definitely need to take a light jacket or cardigan in summer and some warmer clothes during the winter months to do this as the bridge is often windy. Many cycle companies are available where you can rent bikes and you can even go with a tour if you prefer to enjoy the knowledge of a local expert. In addition, the bikes come in various shapes and sizes and you will always have the option to take helmets and be provided with a map. The roads are easy to navigate and for much of the way there is a cycle track meaning you don’t have to negotiate the busy city traffic. Along the routes you will have some great views towards highlights including Treasure Island and the Bay Bridge. After you have done all the hard work pedalling over the bridge and avoiding pedestrians, it’s all downhill to the beautiful Sausalito on the other side. You can really let go and feel the wind in your hair as you enjoy this incredible ride! It is worth leaving some time to spend in Sausalito itself, a picturesque community right on the waterfront. Cafes and little shops line the streets so you can reward your hard work with a drink and a bite to eat or pick up some unique souvenirs to take home as gifts. Award-winning restaurants serve up delicious seafood dishes as well as authentic Californian cuisine and you can enjoy outdoor dining for some spectacular views. This is a superb day out and if you are feeling tired you don’t need to worry about cycling back as most people climb aboard a ferry going back to San Francisco where you can drop off your bike at one of the many shops on the other side. For the experience of a lifetime, cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge to see a Californian wonder from a different perspective.
Jane Shelley is an Australian travel writer. She loves venturing to Asia, Europe, Britain and the United States.
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