Big Sur Hotels

Big Sur, as wild as it is, has a taste of luxury in its lodgings. Several of its hotels are the finest you'll find anywhere in the world, while others don't qualify as hotels but offer some of the creature comforts of a four-star resort. Here's a rundown of Big Sur's roofed-stays that offer visitors an alternative to sleeping outside.

The Post Ranch Inn has been ranked by BusinessWeek as one of the 50 most decadent hotels in the world. Accolades alone aren't enough to earn it the Number 1 spot, though it certainly helps. Post Ranch has an organic architecture that reminds one of Howard Roake's philosophy in "The Fountainhead." And its attention to aesthetics is matched by its attention to luxury. The 100-acre property is situated 1,200 feet over the Pacific. The opportunity for breathtaking vistas is not missed by the Post Ranch Inn. Each room has a spa tub, fireplace, and complimentary minibars. This sounds like my kind of stay.

Glen Oaks Big Sur (Number 3) has built up a respected reputation as a reliable, comfortable, and affordable stay without much fanfare. Guests might be turned away by its outward appearance of an out-of-date roadside motel, but they are always pleasantly surprised by the very modern amenities Glen Oaks provides. The rooms are the most up-to-date you can find in the area, and a stay here won't burn a hole through your wallet.

Big Sur Campgrounds and Cabins (Number 6) is technically not a hotel. In fact, half of its lodging space its out of doors in the form of sites to pitch your tent. However, due to the Campgrounds and Cabins exceptional attention to maintaining a family-friendly area with furnished cabins anyone can afford, it gets a billing on this list. Big Sur Campgrounds and Cabins has been a visitor favorite for years, and for good reason.

Many sites suggest staying at the Esalen Institute, which offers guests a whimsical retreat away from the world. However, because you have to sign up for stays of a certain length, it's not included on the list for the commitment guests have to make to stay here. Any of the places listed here are equally relaxing and receptive to guests needs.

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