The Hyatt Hotel that everyone wants to try - Alila Ventana Big Sur review

The Alila Ventana Big Sur is the hotel that everyone raves about time and time again across various platforms such as Reddit, TikTok, and other social media channels. It has become a well-known gem among Hyatt loyalists, who are always on the lookout for exceptional stays. Being in a secluded location in California, this hotel offers an unparalleled experience that is hard to come by, particularly because of the extremely limited points availability for booking. This exclusivity adds an air of mystery to the property, making it a highly sought-after destination. I was fortunate enough to stumble upon a rare opening for points availability and successfully booked my stay, which turned out to be an unforgettable experience.

1. Booking and Check-In Experience

The check-in and check-out process at Alila Ventana is notably strict, which may come as a surprise to some guests, especially those holding Globalist status. Despite being a loyal member, early check-in is not permitted. However, the staff is accommodating and will allow you to inform them of your arrival, at which point they will provide you with a map of the resort and your room number, enabling you to embark on your all-inclusive adventure right away. This means you can start enjoying the stunning pool, exquisite restaurants, and various facilities that do not require a room key. The hotel aims to guarantee your room as soon as possible and makes every effort to check you in before the standard 4 PM check-in time if you arrive early.

2. Room Quality

As one of the premier woodsy camping resorts, Alila Ventana stands out as one of the best I have experienced. Having visited other high-end resorts, such as the Everline Resort at Lake Tahoe, I can confidently say that the quality of the accommodations here far surpasses those locations. The room I stayed in featured an open space layout that was both inviting and spacious, complete with a fireplace that provided warmth without producing any smoke, which can often be a concern in such settings. Although I suspect that since we booked a room that typically costs around $2500 for just 45,000 points, we may have received one of the less desirable rooms, it was still incredibly relaxing and provided ample space for our needs. Everything was impeccably clean, though I did notice that some of the lighting fixtures and the vinyl player were not in perfect working order, which slightly detracted from the overall experience.

3. Amenities and Facilities

The views from every corner of the resort are nothing short of breathtaking, creating a truly serene and peaceful atmosphere that is hard to replicate elsewhere. The combination of natural scents, gentle sounds, and stunning vistas makes for a unique experience that lingers in your memory long after your stay. However, I found the facilities to be somewhat underwhelming in terms of size; they felt a bit cramped. The gym is like every other Hyatt House with cardio and some weights, the pool is also small comparing to other hotels. Fortunately, the hotel features only 54 rooms, which means that even when fully booked, it shouldn't feel overly crowded. I have heard wonderful things about the spa services offered at the resort, but the high prices deterred me from indulging in those luxuries during my visit.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at Alila Ventana is simply exceptional, arguably the best all-inclusive food I have ever encountered. Perhaps due to the limited number of guests, the dinner portions are thoughtfully curated, and the flavors are outstanding. The outdoor dining area enhances the experience, allowing guests to enjoy their meals while taking in the magnificent views surrounding them. I noticed that many guests were returning patrons, drawn back specifically for the culinary offerings. It is advisable to reach out to your concierge ahead of time, as dinner reservations can fill up quickly. While in-room dining incurs a modest $10 service fee, it remains a delightful option that is included in the all-inclusive package, adding to the overall enjoyment of the stay.

5. Staff and Service

My stay at Alila Ventana provided a clear understanding of what seamless service truly means. A simple text to the hotel’s contact number resulted in prompt responses and fulfillment of my requests within an impressive timeframe of 10 minutes. The efficiency of the service crew is remarkable, and every staff member I encountered was genuinely amazing and attentive to guest needs. A special mention goes to Paul, the all-around guide who is full of surprises and knowledge about the property. If you are interested in exploring the various activities available, make sure to consult with Paul, as he is an invaluable resource during your stay.

6. Location and Accessibility

There is a distinct reason why this hotel is so challenging to locate; it is situated in a remote area without any nearby airports within a one-hour drive, and there is no helipad on the property available for quick access. This seclusion contributes to the hotel’s charm and allure, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The journey to reach this tranquil oasis adds to the overall experience, emphasizing the importance of taking time to relax and rejuvenate.

7. Value for Money

When it comes to evaluating the value for money at Alila Ventana, I find it challenging to assign a definitive rating. The experience is undeniably one of a kind, characterized by peace, beauty, and an astonishingly well-maintained property. However, the question remains whether spending $2500 or more in cash is justifiable, especially considering the difficulty of accessing such a remote location. Personally, I fell in love with this property, and I envision returning for a week-long stay when I have the IDGAF money. This experience has truly opened my eyes to what money can buy in terms of luxury and relaxation. If you have the opportunity to book for points, I wholeheartedly recommend seizing the chance; 45,000 points for a once-in-a-lifetime experience is an incredible deal that should not be missed.

TheLoDown Score	89
Overall Experience	90
Room Quality	88
Service	98
Amenities	84
Value for Money	85