Damkier's Travels: Paso Robles & Hearst Castle

Neptune Pool at Hearst Castle

I have grown to appreciate the Central Coast of California over the last few years. This part of California has wineries, beaches, and a lot of rural coastal cities with fun and interesting diversions. After a particularly hectic August, I took a week of to drive down the coast to Paso Robles and Hearst Castle. Although somewhat remote, this area is a relatively short drive from the major metropolitan areas in the state.

Mission San Miguel

The California Coast is home to a lot of history from the Spanish Missions. Early settlements followed El Camino Real up the coast which created a lot of the city names and architectural forms typical in the region. It also lead to the Mission Burrito which is now responsible for the Chipotle craze. Paso Robles has no mission in town, but they are close to San Miguel which has a mission used privately as a church. There is a small museum, and the grounds are open for a short walking tour. The facility is in good condition and worth a stop.

Vineyards near Paso Robles

The region also has a rather interesting wine region. This part of California is fairly dry, but there are many microclimates that make some very good grapes for some equally good wine. I prefer the Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir from the area, but there are lots of good Syrah and Spanish varietals that thrive in the climate. Most of the wineries are now a little too posh with high tasting fees and spotty quality, but the region is still worth it - especially on a sunny Sunday afternoon!

Yes, it is really disgusting

Since I have been to the area several times before, this trip gave me time to further explore both San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay. San Luis Obispo - or SLO - is located inland nestled in a valley and is home to a large university. Based on the proliferation of cute high end retail shops in downtown, this area is likely home to a lot of wealthy people as well. The picture is from "Bubblegum Alley" which is a rather disgusting alley filled with chewed gum stuck to the wall in a rather crude art. The smell is very strong and nauseating. Even writing this makes me a little sick. Fortunately, there are several coffee shops nearby with a much better morning smell.

Private Study at Hearst Castle

One of the jewels of the Central Coast is the Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument, otherwise known as Hearst Castle. This massive mansion was designed by William Randolph Hearst with little expense spared. It was done in a castle style perched high on a hill overlooking the landscape. Most of the surrounding area was owned by Hearst and was ranched and farmed to provide food for the facility. A lot of the land was sold off, but the surrounding area is still an active private ranch with only the buildings donated to the state for the park. The building is simply spectacular with a strong attention to detail. It takes several trips to really see just a small portion of the fabulous "ranch" and to appreciate what it must have been like in the Roaring 20's to be invited for a private party.

Morro Rock with Fish and Chips

There is always plenty to see, eat, and drink on the Central Coast. It is a fun and quick getaway still rather untouched by the hoards of vacationers from SF and LA. Please enjoy the rest of my photos below.