BA - The Club - Five unlikely epic drives

Highway 25 from Gilroy to Pinnacles National Park, California

Starting just outside the town of Gilroy is Highway 25, known as the Airline Highway. Stories say that, in the days before radio navigation, pilots flying between San Francisco and Los Angeles would use it as a visual aid to confirm they were on the correct route – hence its nickname. Bring a picnic, because you’ll want to stop at Pinnacles National Park to take in the amazing sights.

Car of choice: Mercedes-AMG E63 Estate

The Loop from Carmel Valley to River Road, Monterey, California

While visiting the Monterey Peninsula on California’s Central Coast, The Loop is a must-drive experience covering 100 miles of Steinbeck Country. As the tourists flock to the coastline, head east to experience Carmel Valley Road to River Road. It makes for a pleasant day, with stops at Talbott Winery and lunch at Quail Lodge.

Bike of choice: BMW GS1200 Adventure

State Route One from San Francisco to San Simeon, California

Taking this weaving road south through Big Sur and beyond is a wonderful test for any sports car. For an added twist, go past Hearst Castle (pictured) at San Simeon and cut over on to Highway 46 heading to the tiny town of Templeton. You can grab a great barbecued pork sandwich at McPhee’s Grill.

Car of choice: Porsche 911 Carrera S

Highway 150 from Santa Barbara to Ojai Valley, California

In the vicinity of Santa Barbara on Highway 101, take Highway 150 to Ojai. Built in the 1930s, Ojai Valley Inn is a 220-acre getaway and a great base ahead of a day’s driving. Don’t miss the area’s wineries: head to Santa Ynez via State Route 154 for a day of tasting (don’t forget to take a non-drinking friend for the ride back).

Car of choice: Alfa Romeo 4C

Mulholland Drive from San Diego Freeway to Hollywood, California

Named after LA engineer William Mulholland, this 21-mile route has been immortalised in movies, songs and a painting, so driving it is a quintessential southern California experience. Hardcore car enthusiasts should start from the remodelled Petersen Automotive Museum (reopening December 2015). Its galleries feature Hollywood vehicles, motorcycles and Hot Wheels.

Car of choice: 1965 Mustang GT convertible

Gordon McCall

Five unlikely epic drives

Highway 25 from Gilroy to Pinnacles National Park, California

The Loop from Carmel Valley to River Road, Monterey, California

State Route One from San Francisco to San Simeon, California

Highway 150 from Santa Barbara to Ojai Valley, California

Mulholland Drive from San Diego Freeway to Hollywood, California

Highway 25 from Gilroy to Pinnacles National Park, California

The Loop from Carmel Valley to River Road, Monterey, California

State Route One from San Francisco to San Simeon, California

Highway 150 from Santa Barbara to Ojai Valley, California

Mulholland Drive from San Diego Freeway to Hollywood, California

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