Post Ranch Inn   

Highway 1
Big Sur, CA 93920
831-667-2200
www.postranchinn.com

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Big Sur's Post Ranch Inn is nothing short of stunning. Sitting on 98 wooded acres on a cliff hundreds of feet above the Pacific Ocean, the Post Ranch is equal parts architectural marvel, romantic getaway and luxury nature retreat. The 30 remarkable units of varying sizes are situated all over the grounds in the unlikeliest of shapes and places: on stilts amidst the tree tops, built into the sides of hills and a few that seem to be hanging off the ends of the earth. And each looks like the cover story worthy of any issue of Metropolitan Home. The style here has the impressive touch of Frank Lloyd Wright's contemporary naturalism and organic architecture, with wood, stone and glass structures sloping with the contours of the land. Each room has its own luxury amenities: some have hot tubs, and some have fantastic terraces, and most of them have great views of either the ocean or the mountains. The inn itself offers a warmed basking pool with a spectacular view, guided nature hikes, picnics, wine tastings, yoga classes, stargazing instruction and tarot readings by resident astrologer, April May. There's also an onsite California fusion restaurant, Sierra Mar, situated on a ridge 1200 feet above the pounding Pacific, with glass walls to expose exquisite views to every diner. The only drawback -- apart from the deluxe prices -- is that once you see the cabins glow in the golden sunset, you may never leave your room. -- Brendon Hanley