Fall 2014 Northwest Coast: Day 13 - Touring Hearst Castle and Morro Bay

Hearst Castle is an amazing place. It sits on a hill looking over the ocean with xxx,xxx acres in the estate. (Insert history here).

William Randolph Hearst is known for the publishing empire he built from xxxx to xxxx. He entertained on a grand scale with the rich and famous during the days he lived here.

The castle reminds us of the Gothic churches we saw in Europe. And in fact it turns out that Hearst did copy the architecture of both Gothic and Renaissance churches in Europe. Pieces of the castle he actually purchased from foreign countries and imported to install in his castle.

Outside the front door is a large patio with fountains and statuary

Different levels of terraces surround the castle; note the tile work

The grand front door of the castle

As you enter the castle through the front door, you enter the Gathering room, a small 2500 sq. ft. room that served as living room and sometimes ballroom.

Roman mosaic floor at the entry

During its use by Hearst and his contemporaries, they came through the front door and were immediately greeted by this stunning mosaic, imported from Italy. Tours use the side entrance now so as not to further damage the Roman floor.

Gathering room ceiling

Fireplace mantle in the Gathering room

All along the walls of the Gathering room are these carved chairs. They reminded us of the choir in the cathedral at Alhambra in Spain; sure enough, that is what they are. Hearst used them as decoration but originally the priests sat in these chairs in the old cathedrals. They are impressive in the carvings and heavy hardwoods used.

Choir loft ringing the Gathering room and also the Dining room

The formal dining room continues the same architecture and grandiose style of the Gathering room.

Tapestries line the walls

Fireplace mantle

Travertine tile floors

In spite of the formality of the room, WR Hearst preferred paper napkins and mustard and catsup straight from the jar!

The tour continued into the smoking room

This is another imported ceiling that is undergoing restoration; you can see the part that is restored

Another view of the ceiling

All of WR Hearst's guests were free to roam the property and entertain themselves as they pleased however, they are required to show up for cocktails, dinner and the movie that follows.