Last August, during our annual Coldwell Banker, Habitat for Humanity fundraising event, one of our silent auction items was a one night stay at The Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur, in one of The Peak houses. I was thrilled to be the winning bidder. With time running out to use the donation, I thought it would be a grand idea to use it during my birthday.
The house was totally private and had every amenity you would desire – a refrigerator stocked with soft drinks, juices, cheese, crackers, nuts, etc. We also found acomplimentary bottle of wine.
The bath had everything you needed – hair dryer, lavender-scented body wash and lotions, a Jacuzzi tub, elegant, snuggly robes and slippers.
We settled in to enjoy the serene setting and the majestic mountains views with only the sounds of chirping birds and the wild turkeys. I so love the stone mountain peaks which I was told are dusted with snow during the winter months.
For dinner, we strolled to the Sierra Mar dining room which hangs at the edge of
the mountain, with a glass wall overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The sun was beginning to set with beautiful colors.
It was hard to decide what was the most fabulous dish of our five course dinner. Every plate was a show piece and the taste sublime. Many of the items came directly from the organic garden on the property and beautifully incorporated in the dish. One of the most memorable dishes was the crab bisque with a crab cake and a few drops of vanilla oil. I would have never thought to add a vanilla oil to a bisque but this was outstanding! The dinner was elegantly paced and our waitress was delighted to answer our questions about the various dishes.
As we walked back to our house, we looked up at the sky filled with thousands of stars that appeared so close you felt you could touch them. Back in the house, we made a fire and relished the evening.
The following morning we went back to the Sierra Mar dining room for a buffet breakfast which included everything imaginable – bakery items, bacon, French toast, an egg station, fresh fruit and yogurt. It was impossible to decide.
While there, we saw two whales directly below in one of the small coves. After breakfast we enjoyed the walk past the infinity pool, gardens and water features.
The time went entirely too fast and it was time to leave. The tranquility of this luxury property felt like an appetizer and I wanted to stay much longer. How fortunate that we were able to have visited this spectacular organic, green luxury property. Ideal for special occasions or when looking for a total retreat. The dining facility is open to the public for lunch or dinner but reservations a must.
The property consists of approximately 98 acres with hiking paths, numerous pools, spas, 39 suites/houses, the Sierra Mar restaurant and a store. Upon arrival, the valet takes your luggage into his car, you check in and can enjoy refreshments and then are taken to your house. The staff is extremely pleasant and helpful to make your visit a pleasurable stay. The generosity of the management to support our fundraising efforts for Habitat for Humanity are greatly appreciated.
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