by Anita Bechtel
As a prior California resident, I cannot believe how many people have driven the picturesque Highway 1 and have not experienced Hearst Castle. As described on its own website it is a “Museum Like No Other.” Located midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles; Hearst Castle is a National Historic Landmark, located in the tiny town of San Simeon. Situated on over 120 acres, it is more than a 165-room modest dwelling; it is a beautiful, scenic piece of property now run by the State Park System. Open to the public for tours since 1958, it is now the most visited paid attraction in central California.
Prior to the construction of Hearst castle, George Hearst had a Victorian home built in 1878 which is still used by the Hearst descendants today. The majority of the land was left undeveloped and would stay that way until inherited by his only son William Randolph Hearst. William enjoyed camping expeditions with his parents on this land and was some of the only time he spent with his workaholic Father. Young William also enjoyed travels to Europe, with his mother, and fell in love with the art, architecture, and castles of Europe. These two major events in his life planted the idea to build this grand estate.
Starting in 1919, Hearst Castle was built over a span of 30 years and designed by the famous architect Julia Morgan. The project started off as a bungalow so that his friends/family would not have to camp outside, but over time grew to include a 68,000 square foot castle.The design was never actually completed as Mr. Hearst became ill. Unfortunately, Mr. Hearst died just a few years after its completion.
I first visited the site when I was 5 years old,, I had no idea that we were stopping there, nor understood why we would be stopping there. I quickly became enraptured by the enormity of the place, the endless gold fixtures, and of course the indoor and outdoor pools. Just one little dip, I begged, but it was not to happen. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that the drive up to the mansion is an experience in itself since William Randolph Hearst once had the largest private zoo. Wild, exotic animals still roamed the property at that time, though now it is mostly deer and elk.
My next visit, as an adult, was a night tour, which now included my 3 young sons. It was a beautifully lighted tour at night that was truly magical. You could imagine the parties and soirees that Mr. Hearst hosted, that included many of Hollywood’s leading actors and actresses. Visitors also included president Calvin Coolidge and prime minister Winston Churchill. It is said that Hearst spent his daytime in his office, running his huge empire, so he could party at night with his guests.
My next visit was with a family reunion in 2015. It was interesting that among the 40 plus California relatives only about ½ had been to Hearst Castle. This attraction was picked due to its interest from people that varied in age from 9 to 85 and because of its affordability. At $25 per adult , it is by far one of the more reasonable California attractions. That is what is most impressive about this site; is that there is something for everyone to be awed about. If you’re into art, it houses some extremely rare paintings and tapestries from around the world. For gardeners, the landscape and endless varieties of trees and plants is amazing. Young people are fascinated by the size and opulence.
Overall, if you ever take the scenic Pacific Highway route, take some time out of your trip to visit the Hearst Castle. With 5 different tour options, that vary in length from 1 to 2.5 hours, there is sure to be a tour that fits within your schedule. I would not miss the 40-minute preview film that highlights the history and overall building of the estate. Furthermore, there are wheelchair accessible tours as well as semi-private tours of the art and architecture. It truly is an attraction not to be missed.
Wandering the West 