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Nature Deluxe
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Easy riders on California’s Central Coast
Jessica Taylor
08/01/2005
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Jeremy Beltran
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While California’s winding Highway 1 unquestionably offers one of the best
motorcycle rides in the West, you won’t want to cruise this stretch of dramatic
coastline in a single day. Stop along the way and enjoy the bounty of sea, sun,
and wilderness at Ventana Inn & Spa, located a half-mile above the highway
in Big Sur.
Using proceeds from the cult motorcycle classic Easy Rider, film
producer Larry Spector originally opened this rustic inn as a retreat for
Hollywood friends such as Steve McQueen and Dennis Hopper. Thirty years later
the venue continues to draw those needing an escape to recharge and gain a sense
of self.
Relatively undeveloped and pristine, Ventana’s 243 acres act as a
natural refuge for wildlife—quail, wild turkeys and deer can be seen from the
outdoor hot tubs on many of Ventana’s private balconies. If you are on a return
visit, you will notice much more space in 20 recently renovated suites adorned
with cedar and offering oversized granite showers, 110-gallon soak tubs built
for two, and wood-burning fireplaces. For dinner, the Cielo restaurant,
overlooking the Pacific from its wooded site, offers California wine and
cuisine. Before getting back on the road, visit the spa and get a massage or
take a dip in the Japanese baths. Or lounge by the inn’s swimming pools—one of
which does not require bathing suits.
866.325.8708
www.ventanainn.com
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