Our first AND second stays at Alila Ventana Big Sur were magical.
Would our third stay at Alila Ventana Big Sur be as good as the first two?
Click here to read the review of our first stay at Alila Ventana Big Sur.
Review: Alila Ventana Big Sur (Big Sur Suite At Madrone House) [3rd Stay] (CA)
Click here to read the review of our second stay at Alila Ventana Big Sur
About Alila Ventana Big Sur
Alila Ventana Big Sur is a luxury resort nestled in the stunning coastal region of Big Sur, California. The resort is situated on a hillside, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged beauty of the surrounding landscape. The property spans across 160 acres of pristine wilderness, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying top-notch amenities and services.
At A Glance: Alila Ventana Big Sur (Big Sur Suite at the Madrone House)
- Official Website: Alila Ventana Big Sur
- Average Nightly Cost During Stay: $1,852.05 USD
- Loyalty Program: World of Hyatt
- Loyalty Category: Category 7 (30,000 Points) (Note: It’s now a Category 8 Hotel, and starts at 40,000 points)
- Discount Applied: Globalist Suite Night Upgrade
- Room Type As Booked: Big Sur Suite
- Room Upgrade: Big Sur Suite At The Madrone House
- Resort Fee: None (Globalist)
- Parking Fee: None (Globalist)
World Of Hyatt Booking/Redemption
Location & Parking
The location of Alila Ventana Big Sur is truly remarkable. It is perched atop a cliff, providing panoramic vistas of the ocean and the lush forested hills. This secluded spot offers a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The resort is conveniently located near popular attractions such as Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, making it an ideal base for exploring the many wonders of Big Sur.
Parking options at the resort are include valet or self-parking. The resort also offers electric vehicle charging stations for eco-conscious travelers, further adding to the convenience and sustainability of the experience.
As before, we chose to valet our vehicle to take advantage of the Globalist benefit while we still have it.
FHOP Tip: There is a self-parking lot to the right, just before you arrive in the valet area drop-off.
Front Desk & Check-In
Check-in was conducted at the Social House (lobby), where we were warmly greeted and recognized for our Globalist status.
Room Key
As we were handed our “keys” (which were actually small, round, wooden chips), we were informed that we had been given a Globalist upgrade to the Madrone House.
Big Sur Suite At Madrone House Walkthrough Tour
Big Sur Suite At Madrone House: Entrance
The Big Sur Suite at the Madrone House was the epitome of luxury and comfort. The Big Sur Suite boasts a secluded and spacious living area, a private deck with stunning ocean views, and a cozy fireplace.
Bedroom Area
Living Area
Dining Area & Globalist Gifts
As part of the Globaist gift, guests at Ventana Big Sur during our stay received a bottle of Ventana Big Sur 2020 Cabernet Savignon wine, and artisanal delights such as Marin French Cheese and honey from the Carmel Honey Company.
These thoughtful gifts highlight the resort’s commitment to showcasing the finest local products and providing a truly authentic experience. Cheese + Honey? Who knew!?
Room Amenities
Mini Bar
Closet
Bathroom
Sun Deck
Our suite had a large sun deck terrace complete with a hammock and a view of the Pacific Ocean.
View From The Room: The Ocean And The “Clothing Optional” Pool
Funny enough, along with the ocean, our suite also had a (the only?) direct view of the “clothing optional” pool.
In Room Dining Menus
In Room Dining: Dinner
On the first day of our stay, we opted for the in-room dining options.
We went with the Rockfish, Beef Ribeye, and A Salad of Autumn Turnips. Strangely, they “forgot” the order of Rockfish (which did not arrive for another 45 minutes). However, they did bring everything else on time which gave us plenty of items to eat while we waited for our entree.
For dessert, we went with the Lemon Tart and the Seasonal Galette.
In truth, we could have probably skipped the Turnip dish, but everything else was excellent.
In-Room Dining: Breakfast
As with dinner the night before, the in-room breakfast at Alila Ventana Big Sur was a delightful affair.
The menu offered a range of delectable options, including fresh pastries, local fruits, made-to-order omelets, and freshly brewed coffee.
We went with the Big Sur Benedict and Mashed Avocado, along with the Pastry Basket. Breakfast was very good as expected.
Lunch At Sur House
For lunch, we opted to eat at The Sur House, which offered a casual lunch menu featuring flavorful dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
We went tapas-style with beers and the Latin-inspired lunch menu including chips and guacamole, blistered peppers (excellent!), grilled fish tacos, off-menu swordfish steak (delicious!), and mole chicken wings.
As it turned out, lunch was one of the best meals we ever had at The Sur House.
Sur House: Dinner Menu
Dinner At Sur House
With its elegant ambiance and panoramic ocean views, dining at The Sur House is a truly memorable experience, that’s why we opted to forgo in-room dining for the full restaurant experience.
This time we chose the hand harvested scallops, the unagi plate, and the s’mores taco and dulcey bav for dessert.
Breakfast At Sur House
On the last morning of our stay, we returned yet again to Sur House, for another round of the Big Sur Benedict and the White Omelette Florentine.
Japanese Soaking Tubs
The Japanese Soaking Tubs at Alila Ventana Big Sur are a serene and rejuvenating experience. These private outdoor tubs allow guests to indulge in a traditional Japanese bathing ritual while immersing themselves in the beauty of nature. Filled with warm water and surrounded by lush greenery, these tranquil tubs offer a perfect way to unwind and connect with the peaceful surroundings.
And this, on our third stay at Ventana, was this first time we got to try them – and they did not disappoint (in fact, we had them all to ourselves).
Hiking Trails
The hiking trails near the property offer an opportunity to explore the breathtaking beauty of Big Sur up close. Guests can venture out on scenic trails that wind through the majestic redwood forests, along the rugged coastline, and to picturesque viewpoints. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, these trails cater to all levels of fitness and provide an immersive experience in the natural wonders of the area.
The Ventana Portal
FHOP Tip: What’s Nearby: There are plenty of things to do near Alila Ventana Big Sur. Food enthusiasts can explore the local culinary scene, with a variety of charming restaurants and cafes offering farm-to-table cuisine, fresh seafood, and artisanal delights. Shopping enthusiasts can visit boutique stores and art galleries in the nearby towns of Carmel and Monterey. Nature lovers can embark on scenic hikes along the rugged coastline or explore the breathtaking trails of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. The area also offers opportunities for whale watching, beachcombing, and admiring the iconic McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
The Bottom-Line Review: Alila Ventana Big Sur (Big Sur Suite At Madrone House) [3rd Stay] (CA)
I didn’t think it possible, but somehow we enjoyed our third stay even more than our first two stays, which solidify’s my opinion that Alila Ventana Big Sur is a true gem among luxury resorts.
The Big Sur Suite at Madrone House provided spacious and opulent accommodations, allowing a space to indulge in comfort and privacy. The addition of the Japanese Soaking Pools adds a touch of tranquility – and pairs perfectly with dark-sky stargazing – providing a serene space to relax and rejuvenate.
One of the standout features of Alila Ventana Big Sur is its location. Nestled in the heart of the enchanting Big Sur region, the resort offers guests a front-row seat to the natural wonders that this area has to offer. From the rugged coastline to the towering redwood forests, the surroundings are nothing short of awe-inspiring.
The Sur House restaurant offers a culinary journey that satisfies even the most discerning palates. With its farm-to-table approach and exquisite flavors, dining here is a delight for the senses. Guests can savor delicious dishes while enjoying panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding landscape.
The hiking trails near the property offer an opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of Big Sur. Whether it’s exploring the majestic California Coastal Redwoods or taking in the awe-inspiring vistas of the Ventana wilderness, these trails cater to both leisurely walkers and avid hikers.
With its combination of luxurious accommodations of the Big Sur Suite, the Japanese Soaking Pools, delectable dining options, and access to unforgettable hiking trails, Alila Ventana Big Sur is still one of California’s best resorts and truly deserves a a rare rating of 10 out of 10.
Final Rating: 10 out of 10.
