Elise Christian June 21, 2023

The world-renowned Highway 1 – also known as the Pacific Coast Highway – stretches more than 650 miles along the stunning coastal landscapes of California. It links two of the USA’s best cities, San Francisco and Los Angeles. But this is one trip where the journey is just as incredible as the destination, making it a popular bucket list experience.

This curvy, coast-hugging journey begins in Fort Bragg, in Mendocino County, and ends at Dana Point, in Orange County.

Those who embark on it will be treated to captivating views of dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, iconic bridges, and golden beaches with sparkling turquoise seas. Friendly locals and quaint Californian towns with colourful cottages also add a touch of charm – and vibrant wildflowers, towering redwoods, and grassy meadows provide a magical ambience.

So, how safe is it to drive on this scenic US road? And where should you stop along the way?

Join friend of Rest Less, Cathy Bartrop as she sets off on an awe-inspiring, week-long road trip down Highway 1. Joined by travel writer, Amanda Statham, the pair give us a glimpse of incredible vistas, enchanting wildlife, and delicious food – as well as sharing driving tips and ideas for things to do and places to stay.

About Cathy: Cathy Bartrop is an award-winning travel writer, video producer, and founder of travelguru.tv. Her goal is to bring destinations and products to life, to offer a realistic view of what travellers can expect, and enable them to make informed travel choices.

Interested in driving the world-famous Highway 1 route?

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You might also be interested in tuning into the On the Road to North America mini-series over on Rest Less Events. Over two talks, Chris Forse will be sharing his experience of driving (and hitchhiking) throughout the USA and Canada.

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Elise Christian

Elise Christian is lifestyle editor at Rest Less. She joined Rest Less in 2018 after achieving a first class Master’s Degree in Journalism from the University of Kent, and writes across a range of lifestyle topics such as mental health, home and garden, and fashion and beauty. Prior to this, she worked as a freelance writer for small businesses and also spent a year training to be a midwife. Elise spends her spare time going to the gym, reading trashy romance novels, and - more recently - learning to crochet. She also loves animals, and has a fascination with sharks and tornadoes.

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