All Ventana Big Sur
CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’ From Big Sur to Sonoma to Napa Valley; a tour of everything from nature to wine.
Written by Christy Waller of CW Luxury Travel / Photos Courtesy of Alila Ventana Big Sur, Farmhouse Inn and Bardessono Hotel & Spa BIG SUR Big Sur is located at the intersection of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Lucia Mountains, and is equal parts of American legend and natural wonder. As you drive along the highway atop the coastline, you quickly come to understand the allure of this iconic destination. From star-strewn skies to pristine beaches and forests, Big Sur offers plentiful opportunities to unwind and explore. Adventurers will find enticements, including an array of hiking trails and a variety of other outdoor pursuits such as cycling, surfing, and horseback riding. Central Coast landmarks, both man-made and natural, dot the landscape, including the purple sands of Pfeiffer State Beach, the arches of Bixby Bridge, and the historic Point Sur Light Station. Destinations such as Hearst Castle, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and Point Lobos State Reserve have earned national acclaim, for a good reason. Alila Ventana Big Sur is the perfect place for those looking to relax and recharge. You will be connected to the great outdoors in one of Ventana’s luxurious, rustic, and inviting 59 secluded suites perched on 160 acres of natural beauty. Guests (18 and older) will
bask in luxurious bedrooms, with private balconies, some with private pools, allowing you to take in the Pacific breeze. If you would rather be closer to the ground, Ventana recently reopened their tent cabins in the beautiful Redwood Forest, where safari-style accommodations meet luxury for the ultimate glamping experience. The Sur House sits high above the Pacific where the forest, mountains, and sea build the most fantastic backdrop. The restaurant is reserved for Ventana overnight guests featuring Big Sur-inspired cuisine with fresh ingredients from their very own organic gardens. An impressive collection of small-production Central Coast wines have been thoughtfully assembled by a team of local vintners and the Sur House sommelier. This elegant, rustic setting is by far one of the most inviting places in the world to dine al fresco. When guests are not spending time outdoors marveling in all Big Sur’s beauty, I suggest visiting Spa Alila for a memorable couples massage in one of the new outdoor cabanas or traditional reflexology treatment. Not to be missed is the resort pool, boasting spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.
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