Who knew that camping could be comfortable? The people behind the Glen Oaks in Big Sur, California, naturally. An enclave of eco-friendly cabins planted among towering Redwood trees and outfitted with all the modern amenities, prepare to partake of this heavenly wilderness. Hikes in the woods, white-tailed deer, mountain fresh air and evenings spent roasting s’mores come with the package.
Big Sur lives up to its quasi-Bohemian / naturalist retreat reputation, albeit, much more upscale nowadays. Demarcated by Highway 1, considered one of the most scenic routes in the country, it’s as magical as described in the tour books. Glen Oaks achieves exactly what husband and wife proprietors Tracey and Basil Sanborn and their San Francisco architect/designer Steve Justrich were aiming for: ‘a redefining of an escape to the woods.’ Adhering to a sustainable ethos, environmentally-conscious, pre-fab log cabins were actually brought in then upgraded with custom-made natural interiors, many of the elements constructed by local craftspeople including recycled stone floors, countertops and bath vanities fabricated out of kirei board (made from sorghum wheat). The mid-century retro-style furnishings were constructed of Peroba wood and even the mattresses are organically made. Decoratively speaking, earth tones abound and are fitting considering the surroundings. However, some very high-end features are a nice surprise like manually controlled heated and cooled floors, sumptuous goose down comforters and luxurious rain shower heads. The aesthetic is calming and minimalistic and a pleasing opposite to a KOA campground.
Glen Oaks is a place to retreat from the rat race and return to our natural inclinations, so instead of the distractions of T.V. and devices, amenities include Scrabble and Jenga board games. In the spirit of getting closer to Mother Nature, there is a yoga mat, book of meditation poses and even a Buddha Board in each room. Suddenly, time drifts away and an appreciation for the great outdoors is all that matters. Well, almost.
Being miles from the big city doesn’t necessarily translate to an absence of fine cuisine. A recent addition, Big Sur Roadhouse on the Glen Oak’s premises boldly blends Cajun cuisine with classic California fare. The Chef orchestrates a surprising seasonal menu full of dichotomies where starters like Big Sur Seafood Gumbo and Petrale Sole Po’ Boy sandwiches fit right in with entrees such as Southern Fried Spring Chicken and local blackened halibut from the nearby waters off Monterey County. A select wine list described as an ‘homage to where we are and where we’ve come from,’ highlights wines from locals, artisans and importers. A few favorites include a Pinot Noir from California’s Russian River Valley and a Jankara from far away Sardinia. Something tells me I will be camping again!
California is progressive and Glen Oaks follows suit, demonstrating how smart, organic design can accentuate the natural surroundings rather than show them up. The final result draws us back to our roots.
Big Sur is 150 miles south of San Francisco and 300 miles north of Los Angeles. My insider recommendation: Take Highway 1 in a convertible.