Saturday, April 12, 2014

HEARST CASTLE





Hearst Castle was the historic estate of William Randolph Hearst – newspaper publisher, movie producer and art collector. Built on a hilltop in San Simeon overlooking the Pacific Ocean, “La Cuesta Encantada” ( The Enchanted Hill) was the creation of Mr Hearst and world renowned architect Julia Morgan. Construction began in 1919 and continued until 1947. The Mediterranean Revival-style home houses a collection of art from all over the world. In addition Hearst also established landscaped gardens and a private zoo on the property. Descendants of some of these animals, including zebras can sometimes be seen grazing on the hillsides.
Hearst Castle is now a California State Park and we had a fabulous time visiting this lavish place. We had 40 minutes guided tour of the downstairs rooms, then free to wander at will in the gorgeous gardens. A 40 minute film gave insight into his early life, the travels with his mother and how he built his dream. Fascinating!


We ended our day with a hike to Piedras Blancas lighthouse and saw more elephant seals, eagle eyed Roy spotted a mother and what looked like a very new baby.









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