Renew your spirit with a spring break at Ventana
Spring is almost here—and it sure feels like it. The sun has been out, and although we know we need the rain, it’s been wonderful to see
so many of our guests enjoying the blue skies. They’re lounging at the pool, dining on the majestic Sur House Terrace,
and enjoying cocktails during our new Social Hour at Social House.
You could be, too. And while it’s always a perfect time to visit Ventana, we have great offers right now that make Big Sur even better.
A big sUr road trip
How about kicking off your spring break with a classic road trip? Whether you head north or south on Highway 1 from Ventana—or drive north or south 1 on your way to Ventana, there’s plenty to see and do. Here are a few highlights, and a few tips.
- 17 Mile Drive (34 miles north of Ventana): Pebble Beach is about more than golf—way more. This side trip off of Highway 1 offers overlooks and lookouts where you can see seals, incredible coastal views, and the famous Lone Cypress.
- Bixby Bridge (15 miles north of Ventana): You probably know this well, as it’s an iconic single-span bridge that is famous all over the world (in part because it’s one of the highest bridges of its kind in the world). You can pull off to on the south side to get some incredible pictures.
- Point Sur Historic Park (10 miles north of Ventana): Don’t miss the lighthouse, which is more than 100 years old—it’s closed to tours right now, but you can take a tour of the former Point Sur Naval Facility at 10 a.m. on weekends.
- Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park (7 miles south of Ventana): McWay Falls is a must-hit on any Big Sur road trip—if you want an Instagram-worthy photo that will make your friends jealous, that is. Just head across the parking lot to access the trailhead to the viewing point.
- Anderson Canyon (10 miles south of Ventana): Within the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, Sea Otter Refuge, and California condor reintroduction area, you just might see some wildlife in addition to the wondrous landscape.
- San Simeon/Hearst Castle (61 miles south of Ventana): If you’re up for a longer drive, your reward is the endlessly interesting Hearst Castle—a National Historic Landmark and California Historical Landmark with a museum and tours.
If you’re hoping to avoid crowds and traffic, it’s a good idea to start maybe a little later in the morning (remember, everyone wants to get an early start, and people commute on Highway 1, too). And be sure to meander off the beaten path once in a while; you just might find unexpected and fall in love with your new special spot. There’s no rush. You’re in Big Sur!
other ventana happenings
How about kicking off your spring break with a classic road trip? Whether you head north or south on Highway 1 from Ventana—or drive north or south 1 on your way to Ventana, there’s plenty to see and do. Here are a few highlights, and a few tips.
- Ventana Showcase: Join us at the Glass House Gallery, where throughout March we’ll feature the works of Dennis and Roy Barloga—a father-son team that utilizes both modern printing technology and traditional photographic techniques to make prints on a variety of “unphotographic” substrates.
- Easter Brunch: Above the fog, with the sea crashing below, The Sur House is an incredible vantage point—and the perfect spot to celebrate Easter with a special brunch on April 12. We’ll have holiday favorites, including ham and lamb shoulder at our carving station, salmon and lox, a raw bar, charcuterie and cheese, an omelet station, desserts, and much more (including an optional bloody Mary and mimosa bar). Sunday, April 12, 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. $85/adults, $45/kids, age 5 and under free. A la carte kids’ menu available. Add $25 per person for bloody Mary and mimosa bar.
- Spas Around the World: In this time of rejuvenation and resetting intentions, our program incorporating a new international spa experience each season turns to India, where 5,000-year-old healing traditions are a part of modern-day life. Nurturing techniques known as “Sayang Sayang” calm not just the body, but also the mind and spirit. Integrated into your Balinese massage experience is Pada-Abhyangam, an Indian foot massage using the healing power of medicated oils designed to rejuvenate tired feet and lower extremities.
- Social Hour: It’s one of the most beautiful locations at Ventana. And every day from 4-5 p.m. on the Social House patio, high above the coast, it’s also one of the most lively, thanks to our new Social Hour. Enjoy one of our rotating specialty cocktails, a glass of red or white wine, and a sipping spirit on occasion. Snack on spiced popcorn and nuts. Savor the views, the company, and maybe even the vinyl in the Social House record collection. But don’t worry about the tab; Social Hour is one of the many benefits included in your Ventana Big Sur stay.
- Luxe & Learn: In May, this exclusive quarterly series will focus on creativity—with workshops on writing, cooking, crafting, photography, and more. To see all available sessions, and learn more about the program, click here.
- Create & Cultivate: Part of our Alila Experiences Program, this selection of activities is for couples and individuals alike—because there’s no place like Big Sur to unlock your inner creative spirit. See the full offering here.
new lunch menu
Stay tuned, because we’re taking advantage of the early start to spring by introducing a new lunch menu from the culinary team! Incorporating the freshest ingredients from Farmer Pete and our Organic Garden, it’s the perfect way to kick off the new season—before it’s even here!
We hope the sun is shining brightly on you this time of year, too. We can’t wait to see you!