The Hearst Castle: A Modest Weekend Retreat

Come On: Hearst Castle

 

The Hearst Castle, built by William Randolph Hearst and architect Julia Morgan, is perched high above the Pacific Ocean at San Simeon, California. The project began in 1919 and lasted thirty years.

The main house consists of 115 spectacular rooms. I can’t even begin to describe the awe-inspiring detail in each of the rooms.

The estate is also home to the largest private zoo in the country. Exotic animals still wander throughout the hilltop property.

The castle was built to serve as a weekend retreat for Hearst.

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Looking out toward the Pacific Ocean from the castle.

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Stairs to the main house.

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Outdoor pool

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Marble statues surround the outdoor pool.

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Each tiny mosaic tile on the walls and in the indoor pool is made from 23 carat gold.  Famous guests, such as Winston Churchill, Joan Crawford, Charles Lindbergh, and Cary Grant often enjoyed a weekend swim. In fact, Johnny Weissmuller (Tarzan) made a few dives into the water from the balcony.

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Indoor pool

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Fountain in front of the Gothic Study

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Gothic Study

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Seals lounge on a nearby beach.

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Sunset at San Simeon.

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