Hearst Castle,
William Randolph Hearst’s
iconic palace in the San Simeon hills, is one of the most popular attractions in San Luis Obispo County, CA all year around; 90,000  Sq Foot of  FABULOUS! 56 bedrooms, 61 bathrooms, 41 fireplaces and 19 sitting rooms! Jaw Dropping!

But, during the holidays, the opulent historic landmark becomes even more exquisite and alluring. From Thanksgiving through to the New Year, visitors on the “Experience Tour” will get in the Christmas spirit amid the castle’s 1920s-era holiday décor, including two 18-foot, decorated Christmas trees.  “Christmas at the Castle” is enchanting! 

Every year the staff at Hearst Castle works hard to decorate the estate for the Holidays, creating a special atmosphere that is sure to get you in the Holiday spirit.

Hearst Castle does not have a specific themed tour for Christmas. The main house and all three guest houses will be decorated for the holidays.

During the holidays the Evening Tour program includes Living History Docents dressed in 1930s period clothing along with the holiday decorations in many of the rooms. Two 18-foot Christmas trees fill the Assembly Room as Living History Docents dressed in 1930s period clothing socialize before dinner. Weekend Evening Tours are difficult to reserve, but we have many available during the week.

All of the Hearst Castle tours are highlighted by stops at each of Hearst’s two swimming pools. The Neptune Pool is a magnificent Greco-Roman style pool that features unparalleled coastline views from the hilltop. The Roman Pool is an indoor pool decorated from ceiling to floor with 1″ square mosaic tiles. QUITE MAGNIFICENT!

We did a story on the castle a couple years ago – and when ever we go to visit, we always stay this nearby quirky landmark, called the Madonna Inn.  Read that post here on New Gay Travel Guide .