Set on a high ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean’s spectacular coastline, Post Ranch Inn is the place to stay during your Big Sur getaway. All ninety eight acres of this majestic seaside retreat exposes you to ocean and sky- with clusters of small buildings dispersed throughout the property. Opened in 1992 by the Post family, this serene and romantic luxury compound has made Travel + Leisure’s list- and mine- of World’s Best Hotels for the past seven consecutive years.
The accommodations, designed with organic materials of glass, steel, and wood, are a mixture of cottages, cliff houses, tree houses- my fondest and funniest memory there- peak houses, and ocean houses- where you will find redwood salvaged from old wine barrels- and are laid out with utmost privacy in mind. Guests under 18 are not permitted, and their policy of no clocks or televisions make for a very zen stay. Aside from strolling through their calming gardens and sculptural structures, taking advantage of their spa treatments, mediation, and soaking hot tubs are a must. Sierra Mar, their Michelin-rated restaurant, is fit for a foodie where the chef uses ingredients from the property’s living roof, garden, and ranch- which are all on-site. By the way…on a clear night, try to star-gaze- and I don’t mean of the celebrity type- with the resident astronomer.
While it’s easy to literally stay put and never leave Post Ranch Inn, the breathtaking beauty that surrounds Big Sur should not be ignored. Hiking in the redwood forest at Pfeiffer State Park or running along the beach will make you a true believer of this very special place- as I was lucky to easily access by a stunning two hour drive, while living in San Francisco. I have no doubt this Valentines Day Post Ranch Inn will have a proposal or two in the midst…but I would even go without the man. www.postranchinn.com
[…] Treebones is a premier clamping- yep… glamorous camping- resort with its own power and water supply, and allows guests to choose between 16 yurts- round, fabric-covered tents inspired by what nomads used in Mongolia- 5 campsites, and what they call The Human Nest- bringing new meaning to nesting- which is an elevated human-sized bird’s nest with a futon and an unobstructed view of the Pacific…but don’t forget to bring your own sleeping bag and other gear for this night of extreme eco-sleep. The yurts are spacious and tastefully furnished and include plush queen-sized beds, electric lighting and a hot and cold sink vanity. Resort amenities include a heated ocean-view pool and hot tub, an outdoor sushi bar, an organic garden, massage, and yoga workshops. There are also eco adventures available such as hiking at the lush Pfeiffer-Burns State Park and ocean kayaking at the southern end of the 60 mile stretch of the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary. And when you’re done camping and are in much need of glam, there’s always the Post Ranch Inn. www.treebonesresort.com […]