Thursday, January 26, 2012

Destination - Big Sur, California

Stay
-  For our mini moon TDH and I stayed at the Ventana Inn - the rooms were a decent size, decked out in plush linens, toiletries, a gigantic bathroom with gorgeous tile, the patio was rustic and overlooked a huge open field, we saw deer each morning - the rooms are PRICEY, a little cheaper than Post Ranch, BUT you can use the hotel shuttle service for rides around town and the daily afternoon wine and cheese tasting could potentially make a complete meal
-  For the ultimate luxury book a room or house at the Post Ranch Inn - or just sneak in by saying you are having dinner at the restaurant for one of the best views in Big Sur
-  Camp or yurt at Treebones
-  Stay in one of the oldest hotels in the area at Deetjen's

Move
Bring your hiking boots.  Big Sur is full of magical trails, some well know, some so hidden TDH and I couldn't even find our way.  Here is a link for a good overall hiking guide

- Salmon Creek Falls - a nice change from the crowded McWay Falls
Julia Pfeiffer State Park - McWay Falls is the high point - the park is huge - bring a picnic lunch from Big Sur Bakery
- Esalen hot springs - this is a must! - there are no words to describe the view - it's pitch black and your hot tub which is powered by the natural hot springs hangs off the edge of a cliff - clothing is OPTIONAL - you have to make a reservation - the only time the public can go is between 1-3am, take a nap during the day - I understand this isn't for everyone but TDH was able to handle it and I believe you can too - trust me, it looks like you are on another planet. 

Eat/Drink
- Nepenthe - make a reservation or be prepared to wait for 30 minutes to an hour - you can order drinks and take them down to the look out deck - beautiful view any time of the day but sunset is stunning - bring bug spray! - margaritas are tasty - the food is ok, simple menu, simple tastes, but I don't think people visit Nepenthe for the food, the view is unbeatable
Big Sur Bakery - call ahead, the restaurant isn't open everyday but the bakery was tasty!  You can also drool over their cookbook like me



6 comments:

  1. My favorite vacation spot! That cheese plate looks amazing!

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    1. I would go back to the Ventana just for the cheese plate!

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  2. This is one of the most beautiful places in the world no doubt!

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    1. Big Sur, Lake Tahoe and Bar Harbor, Maine are the most beautiful places in the US I have visited. Have you been to Maine?

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  3. hey... this is where hubby and i were married (the ragged point inn!).. big sur is my FAVORITE spot... saw you at the blogger meet-up, about to check out that cool scarf you were rocking (:

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  4. I haven't heard of the Ragged Point Inn! I must check it out next time we are there. Hope to see you at the next Socal blogger meet-up!

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