Our whole purpose for coming to California had been to drive down 'Big Sur', meant to be one of the most scenic drives in the world. Unfortunately for us, Big Sur fell into the sea last winter and remains closed. So today we had a big detour inland ahead of us, with a five hour drive south to Santa Barbara, and a noon appointment at Hearst castle, so an early breakfast was required. Well, 7.30 wasn't so early for us lot so we managed easily. We purloined a few muffins and some fruit and checked out of the Hotel Pacifica. Brian was a bit troublesome again, but we eventually came onto route 101 south. The temperature was rising (thank god) from 58 in Monterey to 77 in the hills. Though not Big Sur level, it's quite a nice drive, finally coming across a mountain chain and arriving back at the sea. We arrived at Hearst castle in good time. Just pulling into the drive, vicky shouted out "I just saw a zebra"." Mmmmm" we said. This smacked of the infamous Caister Castle hippo sighting. "There are no zebras in America. "
Built by the newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, the house is enormous and has fantastic views over the hills and sea.
As we went round with the guided tour, it transpired that Hearst had once had a private zoo. When the zoo was disbanded, some cunning zebra escaped and have been roaming wild ever since. Vicky has the best "I told you so" face ever.
Back at the car, the temp was dropping (noooo), and was now at 62. We drove up the coast a little where we had read about an elephant seal rookery. I never expected the sight that awaited us. A beach completely full of elephant seals, with huge bulls rearing up and fighting while bellowing at each other. Wow.
You can't see too well on my photos but Ian has some great ones.
Editor- Vicky just sent me two of hers
It was freezing stood watching, temp in the car said 60. But as we carried on south it began to warm up again, till we reached pismo beach and the temp reached 75. This was a quick stop to give us chance to paddle in the Pacific.
We arrived at the Hotel Milo around 7.30, tired and hungry. Brian didn't help by telling us to go round the block three times before we found the valet parking. Ian was fractious because he hates valet parking. He also hates having to tip the guy who brings your bags in. We set off on the restaurant hunt and found a (expensive!) gem. A fish restaurant where you can watch the chefs at work. It was heaving, but they smilingly found us a table. The food was great, and the service was great.
We all mellowed (till Ian saw the bill!) and arrived back at the hotel replete and ready for bath and bed.
Hotel watch
The Hotel Milo is right on Santa Barbara beach. The valet was really cheerful (despite Ian) and the room is great. It's really big with a humongous shower head in the bathroom. It has l'occutane products. And........ robes! Mine fit perfectly. No slippers. It also has proper coffee in the machine. Paper cups though. Minibar prices are extortionate so we steered well clear. No need to give Ian a heart attack. It was really quiet overnight too, and great comfy beds.
Breakfast was standard continental, but the restaurant has a great view over the beach.
All in all 7/10
Song for the day
Wish you were here - pink floyd.
Another good day then. I see the hotel count has gone up presumably because of the robes. Maybe 8 out of 10 soon if they provide slippers.
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