Perched on bluffs overlooking the Pacific in the heart of California's wild Central Coast, Alila Ventana Big Sur is a luxurious wedding retreat in one of the wildest and most pristine natural landscapes in the United States. With its holistic approach to hospitality, Alila Ventana invites you and your guests to relax, explore and lose yourself in the otherworldly and truly unique magic of Big Sur.
Architecture and design by Alila Ventana, built in 1975 and underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation in 2021. The architecture and design are inspired by the landscape and use natural materials such as reclaimed wood and stone to create a rustic chic modern feel. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the Pacific Ocean or look out onto ancient sequoia trees, bringing the exterior into harmony with the interior spaces. The 59 rooms, suites and villas are havens full of comfort and luxury. Each room is decorated in earth tones and features organic linens, fireplaces, and private patios or balconies. Original artwork has been curated to reflect the spirit of Big Sur's landscape, and some rooms even feature outdoor hot tubs for a private soak under the stars.
Alila Ventana is more than just accommodation. It offers guests numerous tailored experiences to connect with nature and themselves. Big Sur's redwood forests are the main attraction for many visitors. You can take a guided nature walk to learn about the flora and fauna, or take part in forest bathing – a Japanese practice of mindful immersion in the sights, sounds and scents of the forest. Big Sur is a stargazer's paradise, and guided astronomy evenings are also available for guests, either with the naked eye or with powerful telescopes provided by the resort. For those looking to get creative, the resort offers photography, painting, and other workshops led by local artists.
The Alila Spa is the heart of the Ventana experience, a place of relaxation and rejuvenation. Hidden among the sequoia trees, the spa holistically combines ancient traditions with modern techniques. Treatments like Redwood Renewal use local ingredients and native botanicals to calm you while connecting you with your surroundings. Massage therapies range from Swedish and deep tissue massages to energy-focused techniques such as Reiki and are offered in outdoor cabanas. The gentle rustle of the leaves and the scent of the sequoia trees are the perfect accompaniment to your treatment.
Alila Ventana offers two unique dining experiences, The Sur House and The Glass House. The resort's signature restaurant, The Sur House, serves the flavors of California's Central Coast with a menu featuring regional wines and an emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients from the on-site gardens. The outdoor terrace offers a dramatic backdrop of sea views or sometimes a rolling carpet of fluffy clouds. For a private dining experience, the Glass House offers pre-tailored cliffside dinners for smaller groups.
From elopements to large weddings, Alila Ventana can fulfill any couple's vision, luxury and wild beauty of the California coast. Couples can choose from several amazing locations: a sequoia grove, the meadow overlooking the ocean, or the terrace overlooking the Big Sur cliffs. Each space is designed to feel intimate and connected to nature. The wedding service includes personalized event planning where every detail is perfect, from gourmet catering with locally sourced ingredients to flowers and decorations. Alila Ventana's team works with couples to bring their dream wedding to life, offering customized packages and access to resort amenities.
Alila Ventana Big Sur is not just a hotel, it is a portal to a world where time stands still and nature triumphs. Whether you're celebrating your wedding with a few loved ones or larger friends and family, this special venue will leave a lasting impression on everyone long after you leave.
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