Big Sur, California: the divine and the redwoods

Big Sur, California

Five days at the Ventana Inn

For those that have been to Big Sur, perhaps we share the same same sense that as you pass the Molera State Park and start the climb up the mountain road of highway 1, it is always the first time you have seen it. For those that have never been, with proper timing, planning and some insider knowledge (as contained in this post), it can go from a place of almost daunting mystery to one where five days seems like a taste of something divine you would want on a regular basis.

Divinity is not my domain, but the first time I came, upon returning home, someone who lived on the East Coast asked what it was like. I was at a loss for words, the massive, overwhelming beauty just eluded any simple description. Finally, I blurted out: if was as some divine spirit had taken a nap and used the mountains of big Sur as a pillow, and upon rising, left some of that divine spirit behind.

And so…the power of its natural force is almost mystical.

In this post we will cover the newly reopened Ventana Inn, the sites, hikes and beaches, and of course, the food both at the Sur House, their own restaurant as well as others.

How to get there…and an In ‘n Out detour.

From San Francisco airport, it is a four turn 2.5 hour drive. Turn south from the airport onto highway 101, go for a an hour or more to exit onto route 137 which leads to the route 1 coastal highway, then finally, after a spectacular ride past graceful WPA-built bridges, climb up the hill past small grocery stores, camping grounds, and as you get near the top, take a left into the Ventana Inn.

Now there is one minor detour you can take — that if you love a great burger and fries. Take the first exit, San Mateo, after the airport, and look immediately for the large yellow In ‘n Out Burger sign. This fast food chain exists in only a few western states, but is outstanding in a crowded category. On the East Coast, we have Five Guys, which is similar and good, but In ‘n Out is in a class of its own. As a lover of great food, I do not judge on price and only seek out the most stars on the restaurant marquis: it’s about how great the food is. If you have never been, you have to find an In ‘n Out burger and go. You’ll thank us.

Besides, after a flight, you’ll be sated for the longish ride to Big Sur. Truth be told, the ride is pure pleasure (unless you’re stuck behind a truck).

 

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