Hike Bike And Paint: A Leisurely LAExperience

Tap into the chilled-out nominal capital of California on this mindful meander that takes in peaceful parks, coastline and hills with local Los Angeles insiders.

Los Angeles is creative, glamorous – and drenched in soul-soothing sunshine. But the real perk of staying here is the incredible natural scenery on the doorstep. “The old adage that you can snowboard in the mountains, surf in the sea and hike in the desert all in one day is true,” says LA native Jeremy Simpson, manager of Mexican mezcaleria and restaurant Bar Caló. He suggests digging deeper into the local area by getting out to the California coast, parks and canyons. “Check out El Matador or Leo Carrillo beaches near Malibu for that classic Cali coast experience – and grab oysters at Broad Street Oyster Co,” he suggests.

First-timers can also embrace the slow-travel trend by meeting locals and supporting small businesses in neighborhoods such as Silver Lake, Echo Park and Santa Monica. Here, we lead you on a leisurely tour of LA, via a horizontal hotel with a chilled-out pool, and experiences that encourage you to hike, bike and explore your creative side, all bookable on Culture Trip.

Many LA hikes reward you with spectacular views

Meet locals in beach neighborhoods such as Venice

Where to stay: the hotel

1. Mr C Beverly Hills

Hotel

It’s known for being ritzy and brimming with designer boutiques, but Beverly Hills is also one of the most walkable neighborhoods in the city. Strolling along the famously filmed Rodeo Drive, you’ll stumble upon cafes and brunch spots where affluent locals lunch al fresco. In other words, it’s people-watching heaven. The Mr C hotel reflects the swanky surrounds with glossy wood paneling, chandeliers and jewel-box interiors. And the glamorous, cabana-trimmed pool terrace and authentic Italian restaurant encourage you to slow down, stay longer and simply enjoy. It’s super-central for making excursions to natural beauty spots and down-to-earth neighborhoods, too. Get chatting with the friendly staff to bag local tips on where to eat, drink, take in art and rub shoulders with always-at-ease Angelenos.

What to do: the experiences

2. Venice Beach, A Walking Tour

Tours

The Venice Beach Boardwalk and buskers are referenced in countless pop-culture moments, but the wider neighborhood is delightful. “I really enjoy spending time in Venice, where I lived for several years,” says Simpson. “The streets of Rose Avenue and Abbot Kinney Boulevard are walkable, with incredible food and people-watching as you go.” On this hour-long, low-impact, light stroll, you can tap up your born-and-raised guide for tips and advice on how the locals live.

3. Hollywood E-Bike Private Tour With Griffith Park Walk

Tours

Hiking and biking are a great way to slow down and explore the city at a natural pace – and this Hollywood and Griffith Park tour ticks off two of the most sought-after areas in LA. Your guides will take you on a relaxed ebike experience along Hollywood Boulevard, then for a heart-pumping hike in Griffith Park, home to the seen-on-screen observatory, and unparalleled views of the Hollywood sign.

4. Paint and See Iconic LA

Activities

Like any major city, LA feels constantly on the move, with locals zipping between power lunches, networking events and venue launches. So, it’s a pleasure to pause, stand still and revel in the unique landscape of this nature-rich city. On this tour, you’ll be taken to the lovely Hollywood Lake for views of the hills and the famous white sign, and given easels and art supplies to paint and contemplate the iconic view.

Find out more and start planning your trip now by visiting discoverlosangeles.com