Treebones Resort

Unique resort of 16 yurts and 7 camping pitches, plus pool, restaurant and sushi bar, poised on a magical hillside overlooking the Pacific

Named for the sun-bleached timber detritus of the former wood mill on this site in the 1960s, Treebones Resort is the brainchild of the enterprising Handy family who hail from LA. John (a designer by trade) and Corinne fell in love with Big Sur a couple of decades ago, and, after much bureaucratic wrangling, managed to buy land and realise their dream of welcoming guests to this rugged paradise.

Since opening in 2004, the resort has been embellished year on year, and cascades down a hillside for maximum panoramic views from every angle. At the top is the large airy Lodge, which houses the Wild Coast Restaurant, reception and a small store, and is fronted by a large Pacific-facing deck. To one side is the large heated pool with jacuzzi and views, to the other a sunset sushi bar. Paths (some a little steep) lead down to the 16 spacious yurts, which have private decks, perfect for stargazing. Further below are an organic vegetable garden, and 7 camping pitches; one with a 'human nest' of woven branches up a tree, in which you can sleep facing the ocean. And all accommodations bar 2 mountain-facing yurts look out to sea. While here, hike, explore, swim, beachcomb, try a spot of sea kayaking, or sight otters, whales and seals. For those looking for an off-beat adventure with an organic feel, this is paradise found.

Highs

• Southern Big Sur is the 'less fashionable' section, so the area is relatively less busy
• Friendly, unstuffy service and good energy from all staff and owners
• The novelty of staying in a yurt, and the surprising style and comfort - pine floors, French windows, heating, electricity, queensize beds (no twins). This is proper glamping
• We loved the farm-to-table, fresh-from-the-garden cuisine in Wild Coast Restaurant, and the sushi bar is the only one for 60 miles, whose delicious catch is served at sunset
• Affordable accommodation in a sought-after destination; campers can bring their own tent and bedding, but enjoy all amenities of the resort

Lows

• No private bathrooms - there are 2 shared washblocks with showers and toilets
• Breakfast isn't as good as the fare on offer at lunch and dinner
• An elemental place, it can get breezy, and you'll hear the surf, barking seals, Highway One below, and possibly your yurt neighbours. Earplugs are supplied and there's a designated quiet time between 9pm-8am
• No children under 6 (a high for some) and only 4 yurts can fit an extra bed; campsites are for 2 people only
• You will definitely need a car to get here and to visit local restaurants should you want a change of scene