Ventana Inn

Ventana Inn, Big Sur, California

Our rating: Deluxe

Spanish for 'window', the Ventana Inn is fittingly named for its scenic outlook onto the hills of the rugged Big Sur Coastline and Pacific Ocean beyond.

Situated on 243 acres of Big Sur hillside, the Ventana Inn is the perfect choice for a tranquil, romantic getaway amidst stunning scenery. There are two heated swimming pools (one of which is clothing optional) where the adjoining bathhouses contain Japanese hot baths and sun decks and one also has a sauna. There is also a spa, fitness room and daily yoga classes, as well as a restaurant specialising in seasonal, locally-sourced cuisine from California's central coast.

The 60 spacious bedrooms are situated amongst the landscaped gardens in attractive one or two-storey, cedar wood buildings which blend harmoniously with their surroundings. The rooms are decorated in warm, natural hues and feature either a deck or patio with forest, canyon, mountain or ocean views.