X-mas Vacation in California not cheesey or family...?

I'm looking for a rad vacation idea for me and my friends for the week of/after x-mas. We're all 30 something (two couples and a single). I would love some wilderness, wildlife, but still have a hotel or cabin or something. Not too rustic, but not too fancy. No more than $99 a night. Nearby hiking, wine's always good, things to see and do. I personally don't care for southern CA, but if it had the goods I'd be down. Any ideas? My original thought was gold country, but I don't know now. Definitely not family or romantic. For reference we all live in the San Jose area. Thanks! =0)