AllysonMonterey

Since you love wine the Carmel Wine Walk in Carmel-by-the-Sea is a must! Carmel Valley Village (about 15 miles inland from Carmel) also has several great wine tasting rooms. Also check out Point Lobos in Carmel. Great hiking destination!

Don't miss McWay Falls in Big Sur. It's a super easy hike with unbeatable views!

There are several Farmers' Markets in the area. Check out this site for a complete list: http://www.seemonterey.com/monterey-...ket-farm-stand

http://www.seemonterey.com

Patty

There's a passport too for the wine walk that's sold at the Carmel visitor's center for $30 and includes tastings at 6 or 7 downtown tasting rooms (I think Cima Collina is moving to Carmel Valley soon). Our favorite is Figge located inside Winfield gallery.

ccool

Thank you so much. All wonderful suggestions. Love the wine idea also. We are always in search of a good red wine.

Trying to work the markets & days out now. I think we will definitely have to go to the "castle". I think the pools are included in the Rooms tour. At least that is what someone I read on a posting.

I just read an article that bed bugs are a growing issue in CA most likely a growing issue in most states). Especially said Pacific Grove where we are staying the first few nights. I am hoping it was an exaggerated report.

isabel

For hearst castle all the outside areas, so both pools, fountains, gardens, etc - they are all included on all the tours. For any of the tours once you get up there (they bus you up to the castle from the visitor center) after your tour you are free to roam around as long as you want. I did the cottages and kitchen tours, it was ok.

november_moon

I suspect the bedbug thing was an exagerated report. It seems like everywhere anyone travels these days, there is a report of bed bugs.