We're heading to the Monterey area for New Year's weekend. Has anyone had spa treatments at Post Ranch and/or eaten lunch at Sierra Mar? I'm trying to figure out if it's worth the 30 minute trip or if we might find comparable experiences at Monterey Plaza and Pacific Rim or the Bernardus Lodge.

Pam, spa treatments at Post Ranch are only available to guests, however Sierra Mar is open to the public and a meal there is always a treat. For lunch, we have enjoyed very good soups, duck pizza and nice grilled fish, along with their fantastic wines. BUT, it could very well be rainy and I don't love driving Highway 1 in the rain, landslides in Big Sur being very common then. So, it just depends on the weather.

A couple of months ago, we were at Bernardus, and I had a manicure at the salon/spa, which is a very comfortable place. The central fireplace in winter would be cozy and the service at this hotel is as good as it gets. Truly impressive. You could do lunch at Wicket's bistro there. The food's from the same kitchen as Marinus, all organic produce from their gardens and local meat and fish, but more casual. I enjoyed a good grilled Tuna Nicoise salad, my husband loved the Chicken Pot Pie and they have a wonderful large wine list with many BTG choices, as well as a full bar. Have a good trip!

We only took a quick visit of the Post Ranch Inn, but we had the most beautiful lunch at Ventana. Just a thought. Enjoy. annieladd

You won't find the views at the Plaza like at Sierra Mar. It's worth it just for that. We have dined at both Cielo and Sierra Mar. Sierra Mar is wonderful, we just had dinner there in September.

Have a wonderful lunch and report back on how you like it. ***kim***

Pam, one more thought: if you do go to Sierra Mar for lunch, I believe the spa at Ventana across the street is open to the public. You could check their website to make sure. It's a gorgeous property. ***kim***