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The beach may be calling your name this winter, but what about discovering a side of California you may not know exists?
While Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego tend to steal the spotlight, you’d be surprised how many charming small towns there are tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities.
The best part is that you don’t have to travel far to reach them, as many of them are a short drive from major airports, and another is considered a gateway to visit the towering, snow-capped Sequoia trees.
If you’re looking for a serene place to unwind, check out these 4 California hideaways that exude a vintage vibe with cozy cabins perfect for a quiet getaway:
Idyllwild: Charging in Thhe San Jacinto Mountains
Between San Diego and the beautiful desert oasis of Palm Springs lies a trendy mountain town that locals from both cities hold dear as their ‘staycation’ retreat.
If there is such a thing in an unincorporated community of 3,500 residents, what is considered “downtown” is home to vintage Craftsman buildings of a select number of cafes, galleries and boutiques.
This quirky city welcomes everyone with a thriving arts scene and even more dazzling natural beauty, hence another booming industry: vacation rentals.
Wooden cabins are available all year round local agencies and Airbnb. Winter is a great time to score deals, as the average West Coast traveler is looking for winter sun on the beach.
Although it snows from time to time in Idyllwild, you can expect a cool temperature of 55 – 60 degrees, perfect for scenic walks during the day topped off with s’mores at night.
Big Bear: ski, relax or explore
Nestled along picturesque lakes is the charming town of Big Bear, one of my favorite weekend getaways in SoCal.
The main strip is full of local shops, great restaurants and great places to stay, ranging from rustic lodges to well-known resorts, such as Holiday Inn Resort: The Lodge at Big Bear Lake.
Big Bear is a popular ski destination, but you can also relax in a wooded, cozy cabin or old-fashioned lodge.
It’s a small town, but modernized enough with plenty of supermarkets to stock the fridge and even Starbucks to get your morning caffeine fix.
There are plenty of hiking trails that offer beautiful views deep into the woods, but remember, it’s called Big Bear for a reason!
For the ultimate in tranquility, visit the north side of the small town of Big Bear Lake Deerskinchock full of quiet, rustic lodges and cabins and scenic roads among towering pines.
Julian: Come hungry and leave happy in San Diego’s timeless escape
Those looking for a relaxing retreat in a city without traffic lights need look no further than Julian.
This former mining town has been transformed into a trendy ‘staycation’ spot for many, but the many bed and breakfasts and cabins are also suitable for longer stays.
Julian’s claim to fame, however, is not their gold rush heyday; it’s actually a battleground for cake shops that claim to be the best.
From classic diners and rows of cake shops to urban wineries, like my personal favorite, Blue Door Wineryyour taste buds will thank you for venturing into San Diego’s Cuyamaca Mountains.
If you are a nature lover, there are beautiful trails that wind through the lush greenery and occasional frozen paths, or you can book a tour at Julian’s California Wolf Centera stepping stone for wolves to adapt to the wild again.
Or say hello to SoCal’s friendliest pup, Oliver, at the Blue Door Winery. He’s actually the mayor of the city.
Kernville: Vintage atmosphere abounds in the gateway to Sequoia National Park
The sound of silence is not only a mega-popular hit by Simon 7 Garfunkel; it’s real.
Kernville is often considered the gateway to the highly sought after Sequoia National Park, but in the winter it is a dead quiet retreat where all you hear is the rushing Kern River and a rusty hinge at the entrance to your cozy cabin.
This small town exudes a vintage vibe and is lined with historic saloons, country lodges and local favorites Kern River Brewing Co. is located just an hour outside of Bakersfield with an airport serving Dallas, Phoenix, San Francisco and Denver.
My favorite place to stay is Kern Riverfront Lodgea comfortable, spacious abode that has been elegantly aged and conveniently located for walking around the city.
Check road conditions
California may be synonymous with year-round sunshine, but conquering mountain roads isn’t always an easy task.
For winter travel, even in the Golden State, it’s important to check road conditions before heading there.
Click on the following links to view each destination’s regularly updated road conditions:
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
