There are few places in the U.S. more beautiful than Big Sur (a bold statement, I know, but one I am willing to defend). This 65 mile stretch along California’s Hwy 1 blends together some of the best of what the state has to offer; dramatic mountains, ocean views, and towering coastal redwoods. What’s more, it serves these up to you in a remote and deliciously isolated setting. The majority of people experience this pristine and magnificent locale through their car windows as they wind along the sharply curving road, sometimes 1000 feet over the ocean. There are ample “pull-out” spots in which to park your car and take a picture. However, it seems a shame to take it all in at this pace. While I do enjoy the drive through Big Sur, I prefer to get out of my car, slow-down, and spend an entire weekend here soaking up its ample natural wonders and soothing tranquility.

A surprising number of businesses thrive in this sparsely populated region, so, you can have your choice of accommodation. Sleep in a tent amid the redwoods next to the burbling Big Sur River, crawl into 600 thread count sheets at the Post Ranch Inn, or find something in between. However, if you are looking for something different, perhaps a bit adventurous, then I have a great recommendation for you. Stay in one of sixteen “luxury” yurts at Treebones Resort, perched on the side of a cliff overhanging the Pacific Ocean. This weekend was my second anniversary, and my husband and I decided to see what all the buzz was about. What we found was a unique and thoroughly delightful experience.

For those of you new to this concept…yurts are large, round, fabric-covered tents that are inspired by the nomadic tribes of Mongolia. The yurts at Treebones take this concept and step it up a notch, adding pine floors, skylights, gas heaters, and large comfy beds with colorful quilts. These structures blend in naturally with their rugged environment and pose less stress to the fragile landscape. They also afford incredible views! Each yurt has its own deck with large wooden chairs. Many of these have unblemished 180degree views of the ocean below. We spent most of Saturday, sitting on our private deck, listening to barking elephant seals and keeping our eyes peeled for breaching whales. At night we snuggled into the warm cozy bed and counted stars through our rooftop dome.

I don’t want to give the impression that Treebones is the “lap of luxury”. There are some aspects that don’t make it ideal for everyone. For example, even with the gas heater, the yurt can get a little nippy at night and the communal bathrooms are a two minute walk away (which is a very unappealing prospect at two in the morning!). However, the isolated location, stark beauty, and unique surroundings are more than enough to make up for these inconveniences. And did I mention the free waffle breakfast- served in the beautiful round lodge every morning! There is a store where you can buy gifts, sundries, and wine. They prepare simple and amply portioned dinners nightly, the menu determined by what was bought at the store that day. You can play board games or read in front of their large stone fireplace in the evenings or have a soak in their heated pool and hot tub.

I would recommend Treebones to anyone that wants to experience the intimate contact with nature that is usually only found with camping, but, also likes some creature comforts. It is an entirely singular experience in a spectacular and remote setting. As its owners say, it is truly a place “perched lightly on the edge of the world”.

Does staying in a yurt sound like your ideal weekend getaway or a vacation nightmare? Feel free to share your thoughts!