California Museums
On a hilltop overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the Santa
Lucia Mountains five miles inland and 1,600 feet above San Simeon Bay,
is the magnificent Hearst Castle®. For nearly
25 years from 1922 until 1947craftsmen labored to create an estate of 165
rooms and 127 acres of gardens and pools. Integrating decorative
elements primarily from southern Europe, an impressive collection of Spanish
and Italian antiques and art graced elegant rooms that can be seen today
in tours available through California State Parks.
Its name is La Cuesta Encantada, the Enchanted Hill®,
better known as Hearst Castle®. It was once the home of newspaper
publisher William Randolph Hearst. Today it is a State Historical
Monument and largest revenue generator of all parks attractions, according
to recent reports.
Tour Reservations Reservations are recommended. Tour reservations
may be made through Park-Net using your VISA, MasterCard or Discover
Card. Tickets are sold for specific tour times. For specific
tour times and reservations, from within the United States, call
ReserveAmerica at: (800) 444-4445. The web site address is www.park-net.com.
From outside the US call (916) 638-5883. Reservations may also be
made in person at the Hearst Castle® ticket office. Check for prices. Tours include a half mile walk and 150 to 400 stairs.
Daytime tours take about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Evening tours take
approximately 2 hours.
