About the Book

Great Escapes: Northern California is geared to time-starved vacationers who may have only 48 hours, 24 hours, perhaps even just eight hours for a quick getaway in Northern California.

It's not designed as a comprehensive guide. Instead, it's an assortment of possibilities for those traveling to Northern California or who live here. Some chapters are devoted to well-known places such as Yosemite and the Napa Valley, others are off-the-beaten-path: Downieville, the North Sonoma Coast and Lakes Basin, for example. Chapters on San Francisco avoid tourist areas and focus on a couple of vibrant neighborhoods where locals eat, drink and play.

Chapters cover an area's sights, give some history and offer suggestions for travelers who want to get out of their cars and explore on foot or by bicycle, horseback, canoe or kayak. Most have ideas for short walks or easy bike rides.

Each chapter's "Where to Eat" includes casual places for a quick bite and, with a nod to the growing number of foodies in America, restaurants that are renowned for fine dining.

Hotels and inns were chosen for each chapter's "Where to Sleep" based on charm, uniqueness, historical significance or good value. Their rates generally fall between $150 and $275 per room per night. Those outside of that range -- hostels in San Mateo County's historic lighthouses are one example -- are clearly marked as budget accommodations or, Yosemite's Ahwahnee, for one, indicated as a splurge and included because they are one-of-a-kind experiences.

Tourist offices are noted under "Local Contact," with addresses given if they operate walk-in visitors centers. Web sites for parks, attractions, restaurants and lodging also are listed for more information.

Use the book alone or as a jumping off point to plan your getaway, and then hit the road. Happy travels.