Left coast adventures: Big Sur

This week has been emotionally draining on the relocation front, so rather than rehash my week, it sounds like more fun to me to share some photos from my recent day trip to Big Sur when my brother Andrew came to visit me a few weeks ago.

Big Sur is a sparsely populated area south of San Francisco that spans 90 miles of gorgeous Pacific coast terrain.  There is only one road that cuts through this stretch of land (Highway 1).  Ever since the highway was built in the early 1900s, California has fiercely fought against the commercialization of this area (thank goodness) and has won the battle thus far.  The result is a rugged and beautiful coastline where you can see California in its truly natural state.

Andrew and I started our journey in the town of Carmel. Carmel is an adorable town, the houses look like they were plucked straight out of a story book.  Unfortunately I didn't take any pictures of this town (shame on me, I shall have to return).

 From Carmel, we drove down the coastline on Highway 1 for about 45 miles.

Beautiful coastline (+ dangerous cliffs!)

Our destination was Nepenthe restaurant, a spot that Ryan brought me to before when we visited this area in 2010.  The restaurant has an open terrace that overlooks the ocean.  We enjoyed a leisurely lunch in the sun catching up on life and soaking in the views and vitamin D.

One of the most photographed spots in Big Sur, Bixby bridge

Big Sur was a wonderful respite from the hustle and bustle of silicon valley and I loved spending time with my not-so-little-anymore brother who is a fantastic travel companion (and person in general!).  I'm looking forward to returning to Big Sur soon - I would love to go hiking and camping!