"The Magnificent Hearst Castle" Top 5 Page for this destination San Simeon by Krystynn

San Simeon Travel Guide: 114 reviews and 328 photos

Welcome to the sensational Hearst Castle - San Simeon
Welcome to the sensational Hearst Castle

Nestled in the Santa Lucia Mountains of California.... on a hill-top overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean lies the former home of newspaper magnate, William Randolph Hearst.

For nearly 28 years, architects and builders came together and labored to create a magnificent estate of grandiose proportions with 165 rooms and 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools and walkways. Its many, many rooms have been furnished with a dazzling collection of Spanish and Italian antiques and art. And this fabulous castle has played hosts to many glittering Hollywood film stars like Clark Gable and Carole Lombard - who were friends of Mr W. R. Hearst himself.

Beautiful architecture... - San Simeon

Beautiful architecture...

Are you interested to know what's the Spanish name for Hearst Castle? Yes, me too! :-)) Well, it's La Cuesta Encantada.

Today, this castle is a State Historical Monument, thanks to Mr Hearst who donated it to the Government (after his death) in 1951.

Imagine, Clark Gable/Carole Lombard once swam here - San Simeon

Imagine, Clark Gable/Carole Lombard once swam here

Enough said; now, why don't you come along with me as I bring you a grand tour around this splendid castle that would make even our dear friend, Alice in Wonderland gasp in awe (most surely!).



Footnote: This travel page is written from my very first impressions of this beautiful city on my first visit in 2001. I hope you'll find my experiences useful in helping you plan for your forthcoming holiday. Thank you.



Copyright © Krystynn 2003
Please do not take my personal pics without prior permission. Thanks.

Pros and Cons
  • Pros:Tranquil. Idyllic. Peaceful. Quiet. Awesome Castle. Beautiful Beach = San Simeon
  • Cons:The weather can get very, very chilly and foggy even in July!
  • In a nutshell:San Simeon is definitely more than just the Hearst Castle. ;-) I don't mind retiring in this place (in my old age, that is).
  • Last visit to San Simeon: Jul 2002
  • Intro Updated Dec 20, 2003
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Reviews (18)

San Simeon Favorites (11)

The lovely Fountain found in the Courtyard here at the HEARST CASTLE. more travel advice

San Simeon Favorites (11)

One last look at the breathtaking Indoor Roman-inspired Pool. Wanna go for a dip? The waters are icy cold though! I... more travel advice

San Simeon Favorites (11)

Let's go inside for a short while to admire it's splendid Indoor Roman Pool. This is it, folks! more travel advice

San Simeon Favorites (11)

Oops! Here's a candid shot of me standing just next to the impressive Roman Outdoor Pool. Noticed the thick fog??... more travel advice

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