Big Sur
Big Sur is a rugged and mountainous section of California's Central Coast, reaching from Carmel Highlands to San Simeon. It is frequently praised for its dramatic scenery. The Santa Lucia Mountains provide a starkly beautiful background to equally beautiful coastal views.
Big Sur has been called the longest and most scenic stretch of undeveloped coastline in the contiguous United States, a sublime national treasure that demands extraordinary procedures to protect it from development. Many consider it to be one of the most beautiful coastlines anywhere in the world, an isolated stretch of road, mythic in reputation.
It is also subject to rock and mud slides, often closing segments of the road for many months. The past two years have been particularly hard on portions of Highway 1 due to strong storms and heavy rain. The road is closed from Lucia to Carmel. Hopefully it will be fully open in autumn 2024.
We were fortunate to be able to drive north from Cambria to visit a section of this coastline we had not previously driven. This spot is notable for the contrast of dark cliffs and rocks that comprise most of the coast with the white rock in the background, which has probably served as a resting site for cormorants, pelicans and other sea birds. There are several rocks like this along the coast -- they certainly stand out against the dark blue water.
Thanks for stopping by!
© Melissa Post 2024
Big Sur
Big Sur is a rugged and mountainous section of California's Central Coast, reaching from Carmel Highlands to San Simeon. It is frequently praised for its dramatic scenery. The Santa Lucia Mountains provide a starkly beautiful background to equally beautiful coastal views.
Big Sur has been called the longest and most scenic stretch of undeveloped coastline in the contiguous United States, a sublime national treasure that demands extraordinary procedures to protect it from development. Many consider it to be one of the most beautiful coastlines anywhere in the world, an isolated stretch of road, mythic in reputation.
It is also subject to rock and mud slides, often closing segments of the road for many months. The past two years have been particularly hard on portions of Highway 1 due to strong storms and heavy rain. The road is closed from Lucia to Carmel. Hopefully it will be fully open in autumn 2024.
We were fortunate to be able to drive north from Cambria to visit a section of this coastline we had not previously driven. This spot is notable for the contrast of dark cliffs and rocks that comprise most of the coast with the white rock in the background, which has probably served as a resting site for cormorants, pelicans and other sea birds. There are several rocks like this along the coast -- they certainly stand out against the dark blue water.
Thanks for stopping by!
© Melissa Post 2024