The service is superb, and food at Cielo was amazing. Every room has privacy and the views are beautiful! Saw deer on the hotel grounds. Highly recommended. The ultimate in both nature and luxury.

been going to the ventana repeatedly since 1977 with high expectations and never been disappointed. a bit pricey yes, but well worth it. it is one of those very rare retreats where if you so choose, park your car without returning to it until you leave. the staff pays particular attention to guests' individual needs and without exception, is very welcoming and friendly, the rooms have a warm feeling and the pools/baths are clean and delightful no matter what the weather. the cielo restaurant provides in and outdoor dining in a great atmosphere. redwoods, ocean views,great food,excellent accommodations and a caring staff...what else could one want?

The Ventana Inn sits up high, on the inland side of Hwy 1, several hundred feet higher than the Post Ranch Inn, so when summer's fog billows above the sea, it's often warmer and sunnier here than across the road.

The vintage-1970s boxy architecture lacks the individuality of Post Ranch's artful, jewel-box design, but the weathered cedar-sided buildings and the rough-hewn pine paneling, rich leather furnishings, and extensive use of glass give the Ventana's rooms a woodsy-chic look all their own, and they feel larger, too.

Because of the inn's hilltop location, the grounds here feel far more expansive, with fabulous gardens, lavender-lined walking paths, hiking trails into the surrounding wilderness, and wide-open grassy hillsides, perfect for a long afternoon in a hammock watching the light change over the vast blue Pacific. In addition to a first-rate spa (open to non-guests) and two large swimming pools (one clothing optional), the Ventana has a series of interconnected Japanese-style baths, giving it an edge over the competition.

There are few places in Northern California as lovely as this on a starry night.

The hotel had nice rooms, nice canyon views, but limited ocean views, even from suites. They had limited windows with screens, so in the warm afternoons, we had to leave the door open which let mosquitoes in. The hospitality bar was quite costly for an expensive suite. There was limited clothing drawer space.

This is a pricy, reclusive inn with beautiful pacific view. Services are very personal. There is a 4-star restaurant as well. For people who can afford it, this is great place to get away.

Ventana Inn is an exceptional getaway for adults. Beautiful setting and surroundings. Spread out across 240 acres, so it never feels crowded. Expect to pay through the nose, but if you want to get away from it all, Ventana will do the trick.

The beauty of nature surrounds you and that is the major emphasis of this hotel. It's very private and comfortable. The relaxation here is ultimate. The pools and Japanese soaking baths are extraordinary. They have diverse and gorgeous hikes. The service and personnel are outstanding. How you feel is more important than who you are or how you look.

Over the last 20 years, my wife and I have traveled often to the central coast of California. We stop in Carmel, then on to Big Sur. The drive between the two places is magnificent, to say the least. The color of the Pacific is a stunning aqua blue. ...

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