Awestruck by the Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle, San Simeon, is a National Historic Landmark and California Historical Landmark located on the Central Coast of California in the United States. Conceived by William Randolph Hearst, the publishing tycoon, and his architect Julia Morgan, it was built between 1919 and 1947. Wikipedia

We decided to make our way to the Hearst Castle after visiting the Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort in our trip to the central coast. To be honest, we didn’t really know what to expect. Yeah, it was said to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area - the castle was supposedly very huge and located on top of a mountain and all, but those little pieces of facts or tiny pictures on the internet just don’t convey how magnificent and otherworldly this place is. Just like many other landmarks that draw millions of people from around the world every year, you’d have to actually see it to truly appreciate it.

These zebras, that used to be in the castle’s zoo, now freely roam around the land below the castle.

Almost every inch of this castle is filled with all kinds of ornaments and furniture.

Time traveling to a billionaire’s mansion a century ago. Unbelievable.

Even a little corner like this does not get overlooked.

I liked the symmetry displayed here. The purple color of the vase stands out nicely too.

I believe this was one of the guest bedroom that’s located on top of one of the side buildings.

A fantastic ocean view. Do you want to hold a private party at this place? I heard it only costs $16,000!

The main building of the castle. Mr. Hearst’s bedroom was located in the top-center of the building, right between the two towers. Just imagine waking up everyday and watching the ocean view like in the previous photo.

There are so much see in the Hearst Castle estate that you should dedicate at least a whole day for the tour. If you ever wind up in the central coast of California, it is absolutely a must to visit here. You won’t regret it!