We have loved staying at Ventana, almost exclusively, whenever we have visited Big Sur over the past 20 years. So it is with some regret we report that the facility, and especially the front desk service, have gone way downhill. The dates on our reservation had to be corrected twice before we finally got it straightened out. We requested a room that we've had before, and were assured that it wouldn't be a problem. However, after we arrived we found that the room was under reconstruction and were given an "upgrade" to a rather worn room with an outdated heater/AC fan that was so noisy we had to shut the system off just to get some sleep. Finally, at checkout we were hit with a "weekend surcharge" that we were never informed of in any of the confirmation letters or emails - which we will challenge. On the other hand, the food was quite good, the weather was perfect and we enjoyed our spa massages.

WOW!!!! What a fantastic romantic weekend!!! I can not wait to go back to the Ventanna Inn!! My husband and I spent a fabulous 3 day weekend in one of the Big Sur Spa Suites--what a perfect getaway. The room was perfect-it has its own private deck with a hot tub and hammock, the room had a large wood burning fireplace, super comfy king size bed, the largest soaking bathtub that I have ever seen, a flat screen tv above the fireplace--absolutely perfect!!! The service was great-we were greeted at our car where out luggage was handled for us. We were whisked up to the registration area where we were met with a glass of wine for a concierge type of check-in-nice touch. Our room was equipped with binoculars, cozy robes-which we practically lived in all weekend, a wet bar etc. The restaurant was a short pretty walk through the woods-dinner was terrific-with a great wine list-we opted for dessert to go so we could enjoy it in front of our fireplace. The next day we had breakfast delivered to our room-complimentary which included coffee, juice, yogurt, granola, fresh fuit, pastry basket, followed by a private yoga session in our room with Monte-invigorating before a lazy afternoon spent at the clothing optional pool. My one complaint is that the only option for lunch is at the hotel restaurant-there isn't any delivery or room service during the afternoon. Dinner the next night was spent across the street at Post Ranch-another fantastic meal-top notch!!! We did have lunch at the Ventanna Restaurant-which is not to be missed-outside with a spectacular view high above the ocean-what a great place for a few hour lunch with a bottle of wine!!! I can not say enough great things about this resort-if you are looking for a romantic, relaxed, beautiful place to stay this is the place!!! I am so glad we only live 3 hours away-we will be back!!!

My husband I are are just back from a two night stay at the Ventana Inn. It was our first visit to the Big Sur area after living in CA for close to 30 years. Why we never got down to Big Sur is a mystery to us. We had heard about the Ventana Inn, and after reading the reviews on this website we decided to go. It was the best mini-getaway decision we've made in years.
Our arrival was without incident, being met in the parking lot almost immediately by the bell staff and the golf cart to whisk us up the hill to the lobby. We were greeted by a very warm and smiling receptionist who made sure we were going to be happy with the arrangements we had requested prior to arrival thru the concierge.
We stayed in the Madrone house, Vista Suite #50. It was very large and most comfortable. We really enjoyed the sunny ocean view deck, and the perfectly placed hammock. The bathroom had separate shower and bathtub, and the tub was large enough for two and very deep, perfect for a long relaxing soak.
The rooms have Bose DVD/CD players and large flat screen TV's in them and there are some CD's and current travel magazines on the ottoman/coffee table. In the lobby there is a complimentary DVD library, first come first served.

Part of our first morning was spent sitting on the quiet terrace of the restaurant over looking the ocean. I had hoped to see some migrating whales and had brought my binoculars. Had I known I would have left mine at home, as the Ventana provideded binoculars in our room for just that purpose or perhaps for bird watching. We had made reservations for Swedish massage in the afternoon, and I was not disappointed. It was the best massage I have ever had in any spa that I have visited. I was told by someone that is because they are all trained at the Esalen Institute. I thoroughly enjoyed the warm neck wrap and the Tea Forte refreshment before the massage. Go a little early before the time of your spa treatment so that you can relax and take advantage of the sunny and peaceful spa waiting room.

Late afternoon was spent exploring art galleries and Nepenthe. Dinner that night at the Cielo was lovely. I had venison and my husband had duck. Both were done to perfection and were quite tasty. The restaurant manager is quite knowledgable about wines and was very friendly. I would say that all of the food we had while staying at the Ventana Inn was delicious, but I especially enjoyed breakfasts in the Library. I looked forward to the fresh berries, yogurt and granola, along with lovely whole grain bread. My husband enjoyed the coffee, while I drank the Harney & Sons organic green tea which was delicious.

We haven't stopped talking about our first visit to Big Sur, and the hospitality at the Ventana Inn. We will go back for more.

This is the second time we stayed at Ventana and while we love the property, this time was not as memorable as the first. The staff is extremely nice and helpful, the grounds are charming and the whole ambiance of the place is special. A true Northern California paradise. But the place is starting to show signs of ware and tear -- the room furnishings are outdated, the floor boards creak and at times you can hear your neighbors, and the pool and hot tub areas need updating. Don't get me wrong, I would still highly recommend Ventana for anyone visiting the Big Sur area. The property is amazing (cute little paths with birds and flowers everywhere, dramatic views of the ocean and the California coast line, large beautiful wood burning fireplaces in the lobby, library and in the rooms, a quiet tranquility as you walk around the grounds and take in the natural beauty). The guest rooms are also big, comfortable and give you more a cabin type feel than a hotel room feel. My only concern is that for the price, I think they need to make a few adjustments and updates to the decor and facilities. Last time we were here, several years ago, I would have given this place 100 points out of 100 points. This time I would give it 85.