If you think you have amazing views when driving along California's Big Sur, wait until you take the drive up into the hills of the Ventana Inn & Spa. Located 1,200ft above the Pacific Ocean, the location is incredible.
All guests are welcomed with a glass of wine. The Ventana want you to leave your car and the windy Californian road behind and feel the relaxed nature of the Ventana as soon as you arrive. Immersed in beautiful gardens are hammocks and water features, plenty of ornately carved wooden benches and statues.
The gardens attract plenty of wildlife, and it's not hard to see why even they appreciate the tranquillity within the 243 acres of the hotel's grounds — you're spoilt for choice with views over the ocean, mountain and valleys. It's a great start to a morning to eat your breakfast outside, but beware of leaving your breakfast, as the local birds have a taste for Ventana's freshly baked wonders.
Built in 1975, the rooms are warmly romantic with wonderfully modern features. Some of the 60 rooms feature DIY easy-to-use wood-burning fires and all have either their own patio or private balcony. It's all about relaxation and luxury — it's a place to escape and unwind. Favoured by that king of cool Steve McQueen, the Ventana continues to attract celebs who want to get away and relax.
Relaxing in the Japanese hot baths is a must. Open day and night, you can head down at 2am and enjoy the relaxing pools while stargazing through the open roof. There is no light pollution around here so your stargazing experience in moonlight is unique. The resort also has a clothing optional pool with sun deck and hot baths for those wanting to have a mark-free tan.
The Restaurant at Ventana is a fair walk from the accommodation, so don't wear high heels if you're planning to walk the gravel paths through some of the gardens. You do, however, have the option of a short lift from reception. I very much enjoyed the beautifully fresh Pacific Northwest oysters with red-wine vinegar granita. The seared wild salmon seemed unusually heavy with the potato puree but the salmon itself was fresh and a wonderful red pink in colour. There is a fair variety of choice on the seasonal menu and all based on locally sourced ingredients from the Californian region. To enjoy the views on the terrace a lunchtime dine is highly recommended.
The Ventana Inn wins top marks for its romance, remarkable location, spectacular gardens views and focus on tranquillity.
Ventana Inn & Spa, 48123 Highway One, Big Sur, California USA 93920 (831-667-2331; ventanainn.com). Rooms start from £217 per night per room.
