Wind your way up spiral staircases to the upper floors of this remarkable architectural wonder to discover its most private rooms, including William Randolph Hearst’s quarters, plus bedrooms assigned to esteemed guests. Once at the top, relish in sweeping views of the lush Castle grounds and the distant shoreline of California’s Central Coast.
Step into the richly decorated two-bedroom Doge’s Suite—which was inspired by the ornate chambers of Venice’s famed Doge’s Palace. Surround yourself with the same museum-quality art, painted antique ceilings, arched marble balcony and eastern mountain views that welcomed guests here decades ago.
This imposing architectural space houses more than 4,000 books, and also showcases one of Mr. Hearst’s most treasured collections: 150 ancient Greek vases, all more than two thousand years old. At 80 feet in length and filled with precious objects, the Library is truly a place to get lost in.
Hearst Castle’s third floor consists of W. R. Hearst’s private quarters, in addition to some of his most treasured collections and sacred objects. Wander through the suite’s two bedrooms and private sitting room that he and Marion Davies occupied, after exploring the soaring and mysterious church-like Gothic Study.
Proof of architect Julia Morgan’s masterful skill, the Duplex Bedrooms’ two tall sitting rooms topped with loft bedrooms were constructed as open light wells, and transformed later into delightful guest accommodations. Stroll through these elegant rooms decorated with tapestries and painted ceilings, which were literally built from thin air.
Once the guided portion of the tour concludes, explore the expansive garden grounds that surround “La Cuesta Encantada”—Hearst’s Spanish name for The Enchanted Hill. Look for native plants, rare flowers and lush foliage that have been at the Castle since Mr. Hearst resided here.
Continue the tour at your own pace to the dramatic and impressive Neptune Pool, and be sure to walk around the colonnades and Cassou statutes that provided the setting for lavish pool parties and lively social gatherings.
Located immediately before you board the bus back to the Visitor Center, the intensely detailed, indoor Roman Pool is the perfect place to stop and reflect. Modeled after ancient Roman baths, this meticulously detailed, majestic pool is tiled from ceiling to floor, and features eight statues of Roman gods, goddesses and heroes.
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