Along California's legendary Highway 1

Like a lighthouse at the western tip of the American continent, the bewitching San Francisco will be the starting point for our road trip.

The most European city in the United States has a compact city centre that's great for walking and using public transport, including its famous tramway.

In fact, there's nothing better than letting yourself be carried along by an old tram as it winds its way up and down the steep streets.

To see just how steep the city's streets are, head for Lombard Street. This is just one of the many iconic images of San Francisco!

To immortalise your visit to the City by the Bay, head for the Paint Ladies.

This is another unmissable image that contributes to the legend of this unique city. Behind these superb, colourful Victorian houses stretches the city and the towers of downtown.

At the end of the day, enjoy a drink at The View Lounge. This is located at the top of the Marriott Marquis hotel. From here you can enjoy superb views over the whole city and its bay.

Leaving San Francisco, Route 1 runs along the Pacific Ocean towards Half Moon Bay. Make a stopover in this area renowned for its beaches and imposing waves. They are ideal for surfing.

Further south, Ano Nuevo State Park is a remarkable nature reserve.

It is home to more than 10,000 sea lions. Entry with permit required.

In the evening, you arrive in the maritime and port city of Monterey.

The must-see attraction during a stay in Monterey is its internationally renowned aquarium!

To discover the Monterey Bay Aquarium, a centre dedicated to underwater life, it's best to book ahead. It's very busy, so it's best to plan ahead.

During your visit, you'll understand why crowds flock here!

You'll be amazed by the richness of the seabed in this corner of the United States. The site consists of two buildings linked by a footbridge.

Among the most remarkable aquariums, don't miss the Kelp Forest with its brooms of giant algae. Likewise, the one with the extraordinarily beautiful jellyfish is a must-see.

Finally, The Open Sea is a giant aquarium where sharks, turtles and barracudas strut their stuff...

At the end of the day, head for Carmel.

This morning, enjoy the wonderful light of this stretch of California coastline.

Carmel beach is a beautiful ribbon of white sand. Note the dogs of the inhabitants of this affluent area - they look as prim as their owners!

In the afternoon, wander through the extraordinary mansions and villas of California's wealthiest district!

Welcome to 17 Mile Drive, where golfers practice their sport by the ocean in the company of sea otters and seals... This place is simply amazing!

The architecture of the opulent villas, with their windows opening onto the Pacific, rivals the beautifully tended gardens.

Please note that this section of the road between Carmel and Pacific Grove is not free: you will be checked at the entrance to the private road.

The scenery in the area between the south of Carmel and San Simeon becomes truly spectacular. Take note of the various viewpoints along the right-hand side of Route 1.

There are several must-see stops, the most famous of which is the viewpoint over the Bixby Bridge. A true icon of Route 1, the bridge spans the river and links two impressive cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Get your camera ready!

Climb up to the legendary Nepenthe restaurant, reconnect with nature and admire the magical view of the sublime Pacific Ocean.

Next, you'll arrive in Big Sur, a dream location for many travellers and adventurers.

Big Sur isn't really a village, it's a hamlet with houses scattered under giant trees (redwoods).

Big Sur is an atmosphere, the destination of many hippies in the 60s and 70s.

After a morning in Big Sur, head south.

Your destination is the Hearst Castle, the landmark of San Simeon, located between the two megacities of San Francisco and Los Angeles.

This spectacular site is an architectural extravaganza designed by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. The estate is also an art museum.

Admission is charged, so book in advance.

Around the town of San Luis Obispo, you can choose between discovering the vineyards of the hinterland or Pismo Beach Park.

Pismo Beach is reputed to be home to a large number of monarch butterflies during the overwintering period. During the winter, between December and February, several thousand butterflies gather here.

Before the hustle and bustle of gigantic Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and its 60,000 inhabitants remain on a human scale, offering visitors plenty to see and do.

In fact, this hedonistic city is good for the soul!

Take the time to discover the old Spanish missions in the shade of its gigantic palm trees!

As long as the sun and heat are present (most of the year), your break on the beach by the Pacific Ocean will be memorable!

Malibu is an internationally famous beach, the result of a famous TV series from the 90s.

When you see the beauty and extent of the beach and the waves, it's easy to understand why this splendid site was put forward!

Take time out for a pleasant break on the beach, with a wide range of water sports on offer!

You end this exceptional 800-kilometre journey in swirling Los Angeles.

California's largest city boasts a wide range of attractions.

You can choose between discovering the famous Santa Monica beach or the world cinema Mecca of Hollywood!

You can spend some time at the Universal Studio or Disneyland theme parks.

Los Angeles has something for everyone.

👉 When should you travel the legendary Highway 1?

The route can be explored all year round.

However, the climate changes rapidly on this splendid coast. Storms, fog and rain can arrive at any time of year!

Indeed, even at the height of summer, fog can appear suddenly, especially in the northern part of the route.

The best time to explore the route and its viewpoints is in the middle of the afternoon. The shoulder seasons are also good times to visit.