Elizabeth W.
Yelp
We had stayed at the Lodge previously in 2011 and loved the chalet style cabins. So when we planned a return visit to Big Sur, we knew where we wanted to stay.
It saddens me that I have to give a lower review rating than I would have six years ago. Especially since they've recently completed a renovation. While the cabins are still wonderful, the main lodge and dining options are nothing less than in the minus range.
Jessica at the front desk was the only, and I mean ONLY, competent and pleasant person I directly dealt with during our stay. She deserves a raise and a promotion. Big Sur Lodge is lucky to have her. Everyone else needs a serious course in 1. customer service and 2. how to do their jobs.
My request for the same cabin we had previously was honored, which I appreciated. Upon entering, our porch light was out and a slat was missing from one of the window blinds, compromising privacy. We waited until the next morning to report it. Jessica was on duty as she had been at check-in, wrote down what I told her was wrong, and it was remedied by our return that night. I credit Jessica with seeing to it.
The restaurant should not be open if it is not being run properly... and it is far from being run properly. The staff who are there are obviously not happy, and let it be known by their demeanor and comments. I got better service once they realized I was worth a good tip, honestly.
Speaking of dining for guests, I have never stayed at such a high nightly rate when breakfast wasn't included. Even the five star in London I stayed at was comparable in cost and included breakfast. This seems to be the norm for Big Sur however, so I won't fault the Lodge. It's just a frustrating observation.
The bar wasn't open even though it was supposed to be. The restaurant closed early for lunch leaving people with no notice. As a matter of fact, the placard outside said lunch was available. I guess it meant the grab and go items available in the gift shop, though people weren't being directed there either.
My husband wanted ice cream one afternoon and was told they were all out. The girl at the counter failed to tell him there is an ice cream bar assortment sold in the gift shop. Maybe she didn't know. She should have. The point is she blatantly didn't care.
Wifi is available for a charge. We found we got sufficient service through our provider while onsite and in our cabin. It was slow, but it worked.
We love the cabins and the hikes onsite. You are paying for the surroundings in large part, and I understand that. I hope they work out the kinks, unfortunately I won't be back to find out.