Jun 18
Jun 19
Post Ranch Inn
Of course what Highway 1 mostly features is natural beauty, and some of the last unspoiled places in America. It would be difficult for any man-made structure to compete with these cliffside views of the Pacific, or the majesty of the redwood forests; but this strange and decadent little hotel holds its own.
Modernist architect Mickey Muennig settled in Big Sur in 1971, and has been responsible for most of its notable buildings ever since. Post Ranch Inn is his only hotel design, and indeed it’s hard to imagine it translating into some kind of movable hotel template, comprising as it does a number of discreet house designs, each uniquely suited to its location.
The Tree Houses, for example, are almost exactly as advertised, built on nine-foot stilts and camouflaged amongst (if not actually nailed to the branches of) the redwood trees. Ocean rooms, on the other hand, are close to the cliff’s edge, nearly all glass to take in the view, and blend into the hillside, with grasses and wildflowers covering the sloping roofs.
More traditional is the cuisine, another of Post Ranch Inn’s big draws. Sierra Mar is a local favorite and a Michelin Guide selection as well, a first-rate restaurant (with a first-rate wine list) that is either delightfully incongruous with or else perfectly matched to its location, depending on your point of view.
There are no televisions here — peace and quiet carry the day. This place is built for relaxation, from the oversized spa tubs and the massage tables in the guest rooms to the infinity pool a thousand feet above the Pacific. Possibly the best place in California to leave it all behind.
Please note: All guests must be at least 18 years old.
How to get there: Post Ranch Inn is approximately a one-hour drive from Monterey Peninsula Airport and between 2 and 2.5 hours from San Jose Airport.
Location
Guest Score & Reviews
Our 20-point scale is based on post-stay ratings from verified MICHELIN Guide guests. This feedback is important, and plays a role in helping us decide whether or not a hotel should remain in our selection.
Architecturally singular, perfectly fits into the Big Sur forest vibe. Impeccable service and great free snacks in the room.
Just about everything; Our treehouse room was so beautifully appointed and had magical views of the redwoods and the Pacific coast. We loved the facilities and trails and wish we could've stayed about a week longer.
The food
Everything
Rooms & Rates
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Jun 18
Jun 19
Plus members receive VIP perks and privileges at this hotel and hundreds of others when they book on the MICHELIN Guide website and app.
Not a member yet? Add a free trial at checkout. Cancel anytime.
Plus members will receive:
- Upgrade to next room category, based upon availability at check-in
- 100 USD hotel credit per room, per stay (2 night minimum, valid towards incidentals)
- Complimentary half-bottle of wine in room on arrival
- Welcome treat in room on arrival
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Upper Butterfly
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Fits 2 people
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1 King Bed
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1 ft²/0 m².
Includes:
- Coffee/tea
- Desk
- Fireplace
- Hairdryer
- Minibar
- Safe
- Spacious deck
- Stand up shower
- Television
- Turndown service
Lower Coast House Full Ocean View
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Fits 2 people
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1 King Bed
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425 ft²/39 m².
Views: Ocean.
Includes:
- Coffee/tea
- Fireplace
- Hairdryer
- Iron
- Minibar
- Safe
- Spacious deck
- Television
- Turndown service
Upper Coast House - Tree / Ocean View
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Fits 2 people
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1 King Bed
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1 ft²/0 m².
Views: Partial ocean.
Includes:
- Coffee/tea
- Fireplace
- Hairdryer
- Iron
- Jacuzzi tub
- Minibar
- Safe
- Spacious deck
- Television
- Turndown service
Peak House
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Fits 2 people
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1 King Bed
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960 ft²/89 m².
Views: Mountain.
Includes:
- Coffee/tea
- Fireplace
- Hairdryer
- Hot tub
- Iron
- Minibar
- Safe
- Spacious deck
- Television
- Turndown service
Lower Pacific Suite
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Fits 2 people
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1 King Bed
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960 ft²/89 m².
Includes:
- Coffee/tea
- Fireplace
- Hairdryer
- Iron
- Minibar
- Safe
- Spacious deck
- Television
- Turndown service
