Our hearts were high with the news that after over a year of repairs, California’s Highway 1 has reopened. The gateway to the majestic Big Sur was closed due to devastating mudslides in May 2017, but after an extensive clearance operation that road is now allowing travellers to experience the magic of the coastline once again. One of the most beautiful stretches of road in the world, we're itching to get back on it.
To celebrate we are sharing our top 5 stops along Highway 1. Where the forest meets the sea, it’s a place that has to be seen to be believed.
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Eat Nepenthe restaurant and it’s iconic firepit has a history that dates back to the 1940s when it was opened by the Fassett family. With heart-stopping views and easy dining this is our choice for long lunch or dusky dinner.
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Stay Lucia Lodge is not big and it’s not fancy, but it’s an idyllic setting for a night on the road. Perched on the cliff’s edge the simple cabins are basic 1960s road-trippin’ chic, and when the sun goes down there’s really just the sound of the ocean below and the light of the moon above for company
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View Bixby bridge is so iconic it’s almost a cliché. The reality of Big Sur is that ever roadside stop is a view that hurts with its beauty, but you know you just have to stop and take in the famous road bridge. Most beautiful early in the morning, as the sun wakes the creek.
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Beach Pfieffer beach can’t be missed. Thoroughly off the beaten track this famous stretch of coast is worth the bumpy ride just to see the famous rock formations. Best viewed at sunset as the sky turns to pink and the water sparkles.
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Hike Ewoldsen Trail. This 4.5 mile hike takes adventurous hearted souls through shaded redwood trails to stunning pacific ocean views.
And if you are lucky enough to be driving down the Big Sur, be sure to listen to our Spotify playlist while you do it!