How long will it take to drive from Monterey down to Hearst Castle on a Sunday in August. We will be setting off about 10am and stopping for brunch on route. We need to syncronise the timing of our arrival at Hearst castle so that we can take in a tour. (we are stopping in Cambria for the Sunday night) - Thinking about booking for the tour to start about 3pm. Will this be enough time to drive down?

The trip is about 90 miles, so if you figure an average speed of 40 mph, you are looking at 2 - 2.5 hours of actual driving. You probably want to give yourself more time because it will be a Sunday in August. Then add in stops and brunch. If you plan an hour for brunch and an hour for other stops, you've got 4.5 hours enroute, maybe longer. A 3pm tour would be pushing it. I'd opt for a 4pm tour instead or get on the road earlier.

Where are you planning to stop for brunch?

Thanks for the info, I have just checked the times of the Hearst Castle tours and the last one is about 3.40pm for the day we are going, so think we will set off a little earlier to make the most of the drive. We were thinking about Nepenthe for brunch. Have heard good reports about it, but would welcome any other suggestions?