TJinSOMA

We are planning a two to three day long weekend to Big Sur (never been) and we are really struggling with the lodging decision. It is going to be two or three couples and we are considering the following:

Ventana Inn - some friends loved this place while others felt it is nothing special. While significantly less than Post Ranch and I know it is across the highway, I just like nice rooms (I'm a big Four Seasons fan). The fact Ventana is a joie de vie property isn't a good thing in my book as I think of their SF hotels as cheap and quirky (not in a good way).

Post Ranch Inn - over the top expensive but the views from the Cliff Rooms and South Coast House seem amazing concern here is privacy of room (guests above or below you unless we rent the house where it will be our friends. Concern there is the South Coast House too isolated. Also, you see some reviews where the rooms are a little tired. At these prices, I don't want tired. Also, one friend says PRI is where you take your mistress or go to recover from plastic surgery in private.

Glen Oaks - more kitschy but significantly less dollars. Seems like noise issues between rooms so not sure if there are some stand alone cabins which would eliminate this issue. It also doesn't seem as if there would be a good spot for the three couples to hang as a group.

House rental - seems tough to find a truly nice house that allows privacy and space for three couples that is conveniently located.

Leaning towards Post Ranch Inn but am truly at a loss here. Thanks as always.

wekewoody

Post Ranch Inn hands down. It is one of the most unique lodgings you will ever find. Don't expect the Four Seasons though. My husband calls the older rooms rustic, opulent zen. Lots or wood, black slate, tile, and glass.

The Ocean Houses, Tree Houses, Cliff Houses, and Peak Houses are all free standing so no worries about neighbors.

We have stayed in the Tree Houses, The Upper Butterfly Rooms and the Upper Pacific Suite. If you do a duplex unit, go for the upper units. Better light and views. I wouldn't worry about hearing your upper or lower neighbors. It has never been an issue for us. The two Upper Butterfly Rooms have fantastic, large decks in the redwoods with a nice view of the mountains.

I like the original rooms on the north end of the property better than the newer ones on the south end. There are more trees and it is just more beautiful. The newer rooms are larger and have more bells and whistles, but the location trumps the other stuff.

I've not stayed in the South Coast Home, but have walked by it several times. If you can afford it go for one of the stand alone rooms on the north end.

TJinSOMA

Thanks wekewoody. What room types are at the north end of the property? I liked the idea of the Cliff House and the completely straight out ocean view.

Surfergirl

It's interesting, because in the days of yore, Post Ranch Inn was the less expensive property (although both egregiously expensive!). However, I think because of that factor and also it probably being a more enjoyable experience, Post Ranch Inn moved up the cash ladder.

But yeah, Post Ranch Inn.

wekewoody

Hi TJ,
The Ocean Houses (with the sod roof), the Coast Houses, the Mountain Houses, the Tree Houses and the Butterfly Houses are on the north end. If you are used high end, newer finishes the units built in 2008 (Peak, Cliff, Pacific) south of the restaurant might better fit the bill. We honeymooned in a Pacific Suite and it was huge and quite luxurious and the full-on ocean view was spectacular.

cigalechanta

I stayed at the Ventura many years ago when it was owned by a rock group. I enjoyed the place and the nearby Eselon(Sp?) staff often were there at night for drinks. I'd like to hear what it is like now.