Lodging Near Hearst Castle Is A Great Idea For California Visitors

By Mary West


All lot of people do not even consider the middle of California when they are planning their vacations to the west coast. Los Angeles and San Francisco always seem to come to mind first. That would be a mistake because central California to chock full of great places, sights to see and things to do. You should think about renting lodging near Hearst Castle and making that your home base as you explore all that this area has to offer.

Hearst Castle is a day visit be itself. You can venture south to San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara, for example, or head north to visit Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pebble Beach and San Jose. There is no shortage of sights to see and things to do along your way.

You can not beat the famed Hearst Castle for flamboyance and early twentieth century style. The newspaper giant built his fantasy estate and packed it full of antiques, stunning architecture, and exotic animals. The animals are gone now, but the mystique remains. Great Hollywood stars from the past seem to be waiting just around the corner as you tour this exquisite mansion. Just imagine the stories those walls could tell.

Heading south for a day you might want to stop at San Luis Obispo. Take your photo in front of one of the most historic missions in the country and then enjoy hiking, biking, or horseback riding. You can lounge on the beach or sample the wines from the various wineries in the area. There are also music festivals scheduled all year round for every musical taste.

Santa Barbara is a great destination with its harbor that is home to a large number of naval ships. You can watch seals that live in the area and seem to enjoy all the attention that they get from the people passing through. The city center boosts great restaurants and an abundance of music and cultural events throughout the year.

Everyone thinks of Pebble Beach with its legendary golf course when they consider Carmel. But that town has a great many attractions of its own. The beaches are pristine, and the surfing is always fun. If you are active and enjoy the outdoors, you will love Carmel. You may also be tempted by the wine walk that boosts wonderful local wines.

Also to the south is the city of San Jose, a skating lovers paradise. History buffs and music lovers will be fascinated by the Beethoven collections on display at the Brilliant Center. Great parks, galleries and museums are in abundance here in a easy going and relaxed environment.

Central California towns and cities are often overlooked by those who automatically gravitate to their larger neighbors to the north and south. It would be a mistake to ignore the beauty and history that central California has to offer however. There is so much to see and do in this great part of our country. You may decide to come back again and again.




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