Though completely unplanned, when we got to Ventana in Big Sur, and saw the magical grounds, the charming safari-style tents, and wood-burning fire pits ( perfect for making smores ), we simply couldn’t resist spending a night glamping in style, enjoying the outdoors and experiencing the full splendor of Big Sur and Redwood Canyon.
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I think, one of our biggest initial concerns was staying warm, especially at night, but we were perfectly warm under the cozy heated blankets and of course the wood-burning fire pit kept us from getting chilly while we set outside. Though we totally should have/could have cooked our dinner on the fire pit, I confess, we opted to order ours from Ventana. We were a bit tired ( lazy ), and we heard great things about the restaurant, which by the way did not disappoint, but couldn’t resist making scores ( a long standing family tradition and favorite pastime ).
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Another pleasant surprise was the Bath House. Think teak-enclosed showers, heated floors and full hotel amenities! Honestly, we were hoping for a hot shower, but when we walked in and saw the marble vanities, organic bath products and fluffiest towels imaginable, we felt like we were in a glamorous spa, not camping in the middle of the woods! Power outlets and hair driers were also a very welcome surprise!
P.S. Special thank you to Lexus for the raddest ride in history! Thank you for making our annual road trip even more special!