Alila Ventana Big Sur

Having read some of lthe recent reviews expressing displeasure over the recent changes, I was happily surprised that my stay was still great. There have indeed been minor changes over the past year, some for the worse, some for the better. My worry was that the Ventana Inn had gone the same way some other favorites of mine have and just wasn't worth staying at anymlore. It's still in a category of its own, and if an all inclusive dog-friendly resort nestled in the redwoods with an ocean view is what you are looking for, this is it. My advice is to read the other positive reviews and take the negative ones with a grain of salt.

Worth it on points based on the food, rooms, amenities, etc. Not as worth it in our opinion if we were to have booked on a cash basis.

Ventana is a unique and very special location and property . It hasn’t changed much over decades which is a positive in most respects . The tranquility and peacefulness is its incredible draw . The grounds are lovely and the setting is magical . They have begun some needed updates and refreshing of suites keeping in character with the rustic chic of the original vision . It is one of our favorite places in the world to enjoy the stunning California coast and the stunning night sky’s The staff is kind and thoughtful and very attentive - always an outstanding experience and interaction with everyone on property. The food has become very hit and miss . Room service , highly desirable in such a cozy setting - is extremely inconsistent in quality and temperature. Lunch poolside was average and uninteresting . The restaurant is gorgeous - again the menus and dishes are hit or miss . I hope they address what is the only weak link in an otherwise spectacular property and experience.

There was a big rat in the hot tub. They removed it after reported but they did not change the water or do any treatment. Management was not even surprised like if it’s normal there. Managers could have handled it better.

You cannot miss Alila if you want to experience something truly different. Everything is amazing, from food， service to room, you can't have something better than this