Just 150 miles south of San Francisco, Big Sur occupies one of the most spectacular stretches of the California coastline and is known for its vast views of the Pacific Ocean, towering redwoods, sunshine, and blue skies. The rugged landscape of Big Sur was much admired by Tropic of Cancer author Henry Miller; “A place of grandeur and eloquent silence,” he called it. Today, you can explore Miller’s work at the Henry Miller Memorial Library and make time for Big Sur’s adults-only spas. You are bound to have a moment of peace.
Esalen Institute
Founded in 1962 as part of the Human Potential movement, this healing retreat has been enormously influential. It is the place where the fictional Dan Draper from “Mad Men” landed when he hit rock bottom, replenishing himself through encounter groups, yoga and chants. He even has a massage style named after him (Esalen massage), and his therapists are legendary.
One of the great attractions of Esalen is the sulfur-rich hot springs, which circulate in hot tubs built into the cliffs. (Try to put on a bathing suit and you are the strange man or woman.) If you are staying there for one of the weekend or five-day programs or a personal retreat, you can visit the hot springs as you wish. Otherwise, book a massage. They take place in a large outdoor treatment room overlooking the ocean near the hot springs. While it is not the dark cubicle you could use, most people relax and enjoy themselves.
Reservations are available for the night soak in the natural hot springs from 1:00 am to 3:00 am. Property visits are limited to registered guests only 888-837-2536.
Post Ranch Inn
This is the most expensive property in Big Sur, with 40 uniquely designed rooms on 100 acres of oceanfront land. Considered a leader in organic architecture, the rooms and suites at the Post Ranch Inn make the most of natural light and views. Cantilevered over the shoreline are the two Cliff Houses with curved exterior walls made from recycled Corten steel and a custom-designed outdoor steel hot tub with an unobstructed view of the ocean below. The Pacific Suites, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, are positioned to perfectly frame the trees, stars, ocean, and mountains.
In addition to the usual massages and facials, Post Ranch Inn specializes in “Intuitive Healing Arts” with a shaman who “engages the forces of nature and ancient world wisdom to create lasting changes for physical, mental and emotional well-being. ». During shamanic sessions, you are free and protected from negative influences and healed from past hurts while you regain your power. Tel. 800-527-2200 or 831-667-2200.
Big Sur Window
Sitting on 243 acres of forested meadows and hillsides 1,200 feet above the Pacific, this is a wonderfully tranquil vacation spot. The 12-building weathered cedar complex was built in 1975 by writer Lawrence Spector and has aged beautifully. All rooms have a terrace or patio, and most have wood-burning fireplaces.
Extras include free daily guided walks around the property, yoga and Pilates, wine and cheese reception, access to the clothing-optional pool, Japanese hot tubs and sauna, as well as a small gym.
The spa is lovely, but you can also get treatments by the pool or in your room. One of the most interesting services is for couples, called “Connecting Through Touch”. During this session in the privacy of your room, one of Ventana’s experienced therapists will guide you and your partner in the art of giving and receiving a nourishing massage. Includes a book to take home so you can continue to develop your skills. Tel. 831-667-2331.
