Best Getaways For Parents Near Sacramento

The Daily Meal Staff|Sept. 27, 2014 7:00 am EST

The children have been moving a mile a minute. You are doing your best to keep up but you're also thinking it would be nice if you two could just get away for a bit. Within a couple of hours from Sacramento, you can find a spot to wind down, even if it is just for a little bit, and enjoy your time away from the kids.

Cary House Hotel
300 Main St.
Placerville, CA 95667
(530) 622-4271
www.careyhouse.com

Historic Cary House has been providing comfort and care for guests from all over the world since 1857. Located in the heart of Placerville's Main Street, you can spend your time being very laid back with ease. Explore the historic buildings that line Main Street. Take a trip to the wine country of El Dorado County, or in autumn head up to Apple Hill. The Cary House staff consists of experts in what to do in this stunning little town, and in the equally stunning surrounding areas. Of course, just wandering aimlessly works too.

Camp Richardson
1900 Jameson Beach Road
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96158
(530) 541-1801
www.camprichardson.com

Drive up US Highway 50, through the scenic American River Canyon, and head into South Lake Tahoe. Going straight when you get to the "Y" puts you on Highway 89, and shortly after that, you're at historic Camp Richardson. Stay in the hotel or in one of the lakeside cabins. Bring your bikes, kayaks or both. In winter, pack your cross country skis or snowshoes. You can cycle, run or walk on the paved bike path that curves past Camp Rich. Your mountain bike will take you on some awesome dirt trails. Ski along the shore of the lake when conditions permit in winter. Bring a great book to read, and simply relax in your cabin or at the hotel right there on the shore of sublime Lake Tahoe. This is a great getaway by any standard.

National Hotel
2 Water St.
Jackson, CA 95642
(209) 223-0500
www.nationalhoteljackson.com

See a play, drop into the Black Chasm, ski, ride horses, cast your line into a river or lake or explore the extensive wine country of Amador County. Book your room at the historic and luxurious National Hotel, where they will "...transport you to a bygone era." Wander about the town of Jackson, or head east for a bit and enjoy the Sierra. It's easy to power down and just enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere here. The one thing you may have to be careful of is doing too much. Remember to take advantage of the wonderful comfort at the National, eat well and take your time.

Eden Vale Inn Bed and Breakfast
1780 Springvale Road
Placerville, CA 95667
(530) 621-0901
www.edenvaleinn.com

If you need to get out of town and you want peace and quiet, some time to explore and a bit of pampering, this is the place. You'll find yourself in luxury, surrounded by a great natural setting. Explore? How about Coloma, where the gold rush started in 1849 at Marshall's Mill? Perhaps a trek along the American River or a raft trip in the river would be what you need. Head up Highway 49 to Auburn, Grass Valley or Nevada City. Listen to the quiet, and enjoy the stars when night gently descends on this little patch of paradise, so close to Sacramento. When morning arrives, you simply won't believe the wonderful breakfast that awaits you.

Donner Lake Village
15695 Donner Pass Road
Truckee, CA 96161
(855) 979-0402
www.donnerlakevillage.com

Donner Lake is a great place to spend some time. Swim, canoe or kayak on the lake. Take a hike on nearby trails, or ride your bike in a wonderful mountain setting. Maybe a little rock climbing will calm your soul, and Donner Pass is a great place to get your belay on. Donner State Park is close by, and is an historic must-see spot. Your stay at the lake-side condos of Donner Lake Village means you can do it all at your leisure. Sleep in and take it easy after a great outdoors day. Do your own cooking or head to Truckee for several fine dining or cafe choices. You'd never guess that this little lake could offer so much.

Charles Ferris is a freelance writer who has lived in the Sierra, halfway between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe, for the last 37 years. In 2010 he retired from teaching after 36 years . He and his wife hike, kayak, cross country ski, snow shoe, ride mountain bikes and road bikes, year round. His work can be found at Examiner.com.