Located right across the bridge from downtown San Francisco, Marin County is one of the easiest escapes from the city to reach. From the centre of San Francisco’s busiest tourist area, it is only a short 20 minute drive across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and you are in Marin County. With one of the top 10 busiest airports in the states, San Francisco services flights from across the USA and the globe, including London, Beijing, Auckland and, well… pretty much everywhere!

Marin County is home to some beautiful coastal and countryside retreats, escaping the bustle of San Francisco a mere few minutes away! Mill Valley is a great spot to head for not far from the bridge, with delightful rooms at Acqua Hotel or Mill Valley Inn providing luxurious surroundings to relax in. The former is also a perfect layover if you are stopping by the area as part of a wider Californian roadtrip.

Marin County is blessed with a wonderful food scene, based around some of the fantastic produce that can be found in the area. The quaint towns dotted around Marin, such as Sausalito and San Aselmo, are hot spots for the top restaurants, many of which are recommended by the Michelin Guide. Head to Poggio for some hearty Italian fare, Playa for some modern Mexican or Madcap for a blowout Michelin-starred gastronomic adventure!

Being on the doorstep of some of California’s most famous wine regions, you can probably guess that (like most of the state), the area is pretty wine soaked. However, if you’re looking for something slightly more left field, head to California’s only meadery in the shape of Heidrun, who make Champagne-method sparkling mead – in a more refined style than what you would have expected from a somewhat medieval tipple.

If you’re looking for that picture postcard view of the Golden Gate bridge, seek out the Marin Headlands, where there are several great viewpoints with incredible views back towards San Francisco with the bridge in the foreground. Alternatively, take in the view from the water and join a cruise on the majestic Schooner Freda B, an 80ft tall-ship that offers daytime or romantic sunset cruises. If you’re looking for a foodie experience, Food & Farm Tours is a great way to enjoy some of the best produce in the county, including the oyster farms that are so famous throughout California.