Alila Ventana Big Sur

Everything about this location is superb! The incredible setting amongst the redwoods overlooking the Pacific, the food, the record player in the room while sitting by the fireplace, the outstanding service from each and every staff member, and the delicious cuisine. Every plate is accented with local, seasonal produce. The infinity hot tub overlooking the Forest was so memorable. What an escape!

Expectations were high and Alila Ventana did not disappoint. Up in the clouds, the view was spectacular and serene. I could not tell where the ocean ended and the blue sky began. Starting with a casual late lunch after check in at the Sun Deck, overlooking the coast, we felt a wave of relaxation immediately. Staff and guests were so friendly. I did not expect the resort to be so full of dogs, but it was a very dog friendly place and many couples were there with two — all very well-behaved. This place is magnificent but had an unpretentious vibe, and being welcoming to animals added to that I think. Dinner at the Sur house was excellent - make reservations in advance. The gym is (very) small but it all seemed to work. The 1.1 mile trail around the property reminded me of Muir Woods, and we enjoyed seeing some unique birds along the way. The heated pool and hot tub were great. We stayed in the Sycamore House and our room was terrific.

Our twelfth stay at Ventana over 35 years and 3 owners was one of the best! They have a great staff currently, and everyone we interacted with us was very helpful, especially Michael, Leo, and Carmen in the restaurant. The recent upgrades are subtle but well done, and it is still one of the most magical places we have stayed all over the world.

Great food. Great experience with gluten-free and dairy free dining. Very relaxing. Everything was pretty easy. First, I am celiac and eating gluten-free and dairy free at the restaurant and room service was easy. . I did not try the pool bar. It was pretty cool that weekend so we were not at the pool at lunchtime. The snacks that are provided in the room were not gluten-free. That was not a big deal for us as I felt like I have plenty to eat at the meals. I also cannot walk very far or for very long. The golf carts were readily available to take me where we needed to go on the resort with a quick response to a text message request. I did call the resort prior to our visit and request that our room have minimal steps or hills to reach it. They nicely accommodated me in a room close to the social house. Tips: schedule your spa treatments, and your dinner reservations before arriving. We also enjoy the falconry and a meditation. I would recommend both of them. We stayed 2 nights but 3 would have been perfect.

This resort exceeding our expectations mostly due to the terrific staff. What I loved: our forest view suite, the hammock, the record player/bluetooth speaker, the space, the thoughtful nightly turndown, the prompt service, the restaurant food and bar, the activities. What I didn't love: I could hear the room above ours stomping around at 1:30am, that some activities were not available when we were there, and in the beginning the uncomfortable feeling of not tipping (however, we did get over it! LOL). We will 100% go back for more! The staff made our stay memorable.