For the last two anniversaries, we made the treck north from the Los Angeles suburbs in early December to stay at Ventana in Big Sur. We stayed in the superior fireplace room both times, dined at Cielo, participated in the nature walk, wine and cheese in the afternoon, pool and hot tub, etc.; in other words, we took full advantage of the amenities and enjoyed our stays. However, we keep hearing about the Tickle Pink near Carmel and how lovely it is and the views, and perhaps a little change is not a bad thing. So, for those Fodorites who have experienced both, which one would you more likely return to and why?
Thank you in advance for your comments and input,
Anna

Topping--anyone?

You asked for people to post that have been to both. I've been to TP, not Ventana. I loved TP, but my guess is that Ventana is going to have a more exclusive, resorty feel to it than TP, which started it's life many years ago as a motel. The rooms have great views of the ocean and of course it has been upgraded and upscaled over the years. It is a very comfortable place to stay, but if you are used to Ventana you might be disappointed. Why not try Post Ranch Inn across the highway instead? Been there many times and love it.

The rooms at Tickle Pink have amazing views. Some rooms have fireplaces, but last time I was there they were gas. I am a fan of wood fireplaces in a place like that.. Another option is Highlands Inn, right next to Tickle, which does have wood fireplces and the same great view.

iamq and youngtom, thank you for your responses.

I certainly would not want to be disappointed and gas fireplace does not really appeal to me either. I will take a look at Highlands Inn.

As for Post Ranch, one must draw the line somewhere and my line appears to be below Post Ranch's prices.

Anna

Anna~
I have not stayed at Ventana, but have stayed at Tickle Pink Inn. In fact, we're returning there in a few weeks...we loved it. It has a very cozy, personal feel. We found the rooms to be lovely and the views are incredible.

When we were there, we walked over to the Highlands Inn for a drink one evening and I was disappointed. Some of the reviews on tripadvisor.com report that it needs a facelift and that's the feeling I got while walking around. Perhaps it's better now.

I would choose (and have) Tickle Pink Inn and definitely get an ocean view room. The continental breakfasts are beautifully presented and delicious and the wine/cheese in the afternoons are wonderful. There is a lovely terrace to enjoy all of this which overlooks the ocean and beautiful sunsets.

Happy Anniversary!

Thank you, jewel!

Yes, I also checked out Highlands Inn on TA last night, and was surprised by the number of negative posts, one after another.

We surely have our resources now, don't we? Not like times past when we would have to rely on a brochure photo and then "eat it" if it was a creative photography. On the other hand, this mass of information also makes for a difficult decisions making.

Oh well, off to work I go to pay for the weekend in Carmel.

Anna