The only place in the country where three of the 100 Great Towns of America adjoin is on the Monterey Peninsula. No surprise, given the combination of a spectacular coastline; a climate as ideal for human habitation as it is for lush landscapes; and natural constraints that slowed urban land development long enough for political sentiments to take over the role of protecting this unique natural setting from rampant growth. With incomparable beauty, there is plenty for visitors to enjoy year-round. A hike/bike path connects Monterey and Pacific Grove with flowery seascapes to within a block of famed historic Cannery Row; and the Seventeen Mile Drive is one of America’s most picturesque scenic roads. Everyone should take time to stroll among storybook cottages in downtown Carmel, and marvel at how roads always yield rights of way to noble trees. Kayaking, hiking, fishing, boating and other sports are delightful in world-class land-and-sea settings from the Peninsula through Big Sur bounding the region on the south. The Monterey Aquarium is one of the finest in the nation. Lush landscapes and romantic settings have spawned sybaritic spas and romantic retreats in all three towns. Wineries and affiliated tasting rooms abound, as does gourmet food in all styles and price levels. Weather is hospitable most of the year. This guidebook will help you discover the marvels of this remarkable area. David Vokac has been dubbed the Guru of Great Towns . Since 1985 he has crisscrossed America searching for ideal towns combining scenic grandeur, exhilarating outdoor recreation options, and strong regional culture. He believes that in small town America, the true diversity of this nation is captured best. In idyllic getaways, visitors opt for outdoor activities like swimming, boating, hiking, or fishing, and enjoyment of manmade attractions like museums, parks, monuments, and specialty shops. David was inspired to focus his books on Great Towns by his youth in Cody, Wyoming where he rode horses, ran rivers, and fished in Yellowstone Lake while enjoying a first-rate education in a top-notch school system in the town founded by Buffalo Bill. His subsequent education including a Master of Arts in geography and area development led to professional work in community and park development which honed his interests and skills at finding desirable locales. Following two complete editions of the landmark guidebook about the 100 Great Towns of America , David continues to return to these favored venues and seek more of them to keep travelers updated on getaways and boondock features in this great country of ours, the United States of America. Joan Vokac, after serving 35 years as a land use planner for the unincorporated villages of San Diego County, now joins husband David in seeking the most exciting getaway towns in the nation. She delights in discovering new towns combining physical grandeur with distinctive local culture. Whether spending a day gliding down a waterslide or hiking a trail, she enjoys returning to a gourmet meal and friendly lodging in one of America's Great Towns. In addition to being an avid researcher and co-author of the most recent Great Towns guidebooks, she is webmaster of greattowns.com and has become an occasional trainer due to her expertise gained from converting the Great Towns information into contemporary media.