We’ve made a habit of meeting up with friends in Cambria through the years. In fact, we journeyed there during the first summer of Covid. We found plenty to do and dined in the street and parking lots. But state parks were closed then and we were anxious to tour Hearst Castle.
Once parks opened, we were disappointed when Hearst Castle did not. They suffered a catastrophic rainstorm in January of 2021, receiving 20 inches of rain in 24 hours. This washed out part of the historic road that winds its way up and down the hill, designed by architect, Julia Morgan.
Finally, in May of this year, Hearst Castle reopened and we planned a visit. There was shopping along the way, of course. A quick stop at my favorite quilt shop—Roxanne’s in Carpinteria—netted me this fabulous patriotic fabric.
We stopped at our favorite sandwich shop in Santa Barbara, Valentino’s. From there, it was a straight shot to Cambria Pines Lodge, where we stayed during our last visit – lovely rooms with fireplaces, scenic views, and a great restaurant.
There are fabulous gardens.
Get a load of the darling décor—I loved the country dust ruffle and the fencing headboard.
We headed to Cambria Nursery, right on the grounds of our inn.
We found these interesting flowers growing beside the footpath along our way. I have no idea what they are.
Not only do they have a fantastic nursery, there are old buildings scattered throughout, filled to the brim with antiques, gift items, books and all kinds of gardening paraphernalia. To make things even better, there was a sale!
My finds:
This is a canvas pot cover, lined in plastic. I couldn’t resist but I haven’t put a plant in yet.
A few new succulents. I’m always looking for diverse colors and shapes.
We’ve had problems with tiny bugs in our house the past few summers. When I saw this company had been in business for 100 years, I had to try them out. I have not trapped a fly or a mosquito so far, but I have managed to eliminate a considerable number of diminutive bugs from our living space. I would say they’re a success.
The owner sells his vintage decorations and I simply could not resist this truly tiny tree.
Gardeners are often in need of gloves and there was a sale after all. I’m always wearing holes in the fingers. These just might last a while.
And even though I’ve never had much luck buying plants outside my growing zone, I decided to try a true geranium. I’m not supposed to plant it until the fall. It’s hanging in there.
There was a room full of hats! Aren’t they gorgeous? This is the second store we were in that featured really colorful wares. I read that color and beauty reflect culture. Is this a sign that times are on the uptick? I hope so.
From here, we were on our way to lunch at Ragged Point, next time in our blog adventure.
