Post Ranch Inn

Unfortunately for us, Post Ranch Inn was one of our first stops on an eight-day coastal road trip. Unfortunate because they set a standard no other property or restaurant was going to match. I knew that going in. It was still starker than I expected. Start with the property. When that is the view off your deck, why go anywhere else? Stunning doesn't cover it. We hiked much of the grounds and every turn delivered something new. The kind of place that makes you slow down without even trying. Then the restaurant. Everything was perfect — service, quality, execution. Much of the food sourced on property or from the surrounding community. My wife declared the salad the best she'd ever had. High praise for a salad. High praise, full stop. Special shout out to our server Yasmany and bartender Thomas — both exceptional. What struck me most was how effortless the entire staff made it look. These are people who deal with guests from around the world, all arriving with high expectations of a high-end experience. And yet nothing felt forced. Nobody appeared to be trying to impress us. It was just perfect service, perfectly delivered. That's the rarest thing in hospitality. Highlight of the trip. Hands down. And I suspect, never to be repeated.

We had the most magical elopement here that was impeccably orchestrated by our wedding planner. All of the communications with our wedding planner were so easeful and professional and all the details were carefully selected by me and my now husband. We absolutely loved our officiant who helped us craft a beautiful and personalized ceremony. I was able to have someone come to our room for hair and makeup and she was amazing too! Our photographers were equally amazing and we can't wait to get out photos back. The whole thing felt like a dream. I could not have prepared for how beautiful this whole experience was.

A place of beauty and serenity hugging the Big Sur cliff edge at 1,200 ft above sea-level, Post Ranch Inn is worth every penny - it is a place essentially that has not been developed (aside from the beautiful architectural accommodation) and you get a sense of stepping back in time to California as it was when it was just ranch country. Sitting on the bluff amongst wild flowers that blow in the quiet soft breeze (March was 80 degrees with limited fog), it is a magical experience that fills the soul and delights the senses. This charming retreat does not overplay its hand: it has remained true to itself, its history and its roots. Dine at the elegant Sierra Mar restaurant amongst locals and feel right at home. It is quiet elegance for people who seek inspiration, peace and quiet and reassurance that the world can be a beautiful place. Breath in the fresh air, watch the eagles sour and keep this magical memory forever. (S&J celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary).

My now fiancé :) planned an amazing weekend away to surprise me with a proposal at Post Ranch Inn. Not only was the property itself stunning, but the staff and events team went above and beyond to make this a special experience. From a floral room set up, a private cliffside proposal, dinner reservations, and transportation across the property, everything was catered to make the experience memorable. Social shout out to Derek for all his help upfront with my fiancé to plan such an unforgettable experience!

The most amazing experience in Big Sur with elegance, tranquility, and everything that a dream California vacation can be.