Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Ages 16 and up, can try the Middle Earth Expedition ($130), which lasts four hours and
involves serious spelunking. The Trail of Lakes walking tour, available only towards both
ends of wet season, is magical. Conditions are unpredictable, so call to plan.
GOLD COUNTRY'S BEST CAVES
California Cavern
in Murphys offers a wide variety of tours, lengthy adventure trips and
was marveled at by John Muir.
Moaning Cavern
in Angels Camp has the deepest cave rapelling in California and an
above-ground zip line.
Black Chasm
in Volcano has a quiet self-guided Zen Garden walk above ground and rare
helictite crystals below.
Sleeping
Most accommodations in Murphys are top-end B&Bs. For the same price, there is a cluster
ers St; cottages $115-160)
just off Main St, or check nearby Angels Camp or Arnold for
cheaper alternatives.
Victoria Inn
B&B
( 209-728-8933;
www.victoriainn-murphys.com
; 402 Main St; r $129-225, cottage $190-450; )
This newly built B&B has elegant rooms with claw-foot slipper tubs, sleigh beds and bal-
conies. The common spaces, like the long verandah for enjoying tapas and wine from the
restaurant and bar
, have a chic country-mod appeal. Opi's Cabin ($158) - with its iron bed
and exposed beams - is the most interesting of the basic rooms.
Murphys Historic Hotel & Lodge
B&B, LODGE
( 800-532-7684, 209-728-3444;
www.murphyshotel.com
;
457 Main St; d $129-149)
Since either 1855 or 1856 (you have your pick of plaques out front), this hotel has
anchored Main St. A must-stop on the Twain-slept-here tour, the original structure is a
little rough around the edges. The adjoining buildings have bland, modern rooms that cost
more. Make your way down to the dining room for fried chicken ($17).
