Today, in this blog, I will take you to the beautiful grounds and outdoors of Hearst Castle and its two magnificent pools. While I have already featured its remarkable architecture and opulent interior in my previous blog, the outdoors is equally breathtaking.
As the castle sits atop Enchanted Hill, some 1,600 feet above sea level, it gives a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, San Simeon's green hills, and the large estate ground below. On a clear day, the horizon is miles away, providing a truly breathtaking scenery that adds to the castle's already grandeur presence.
An Oasis Garden with Panoramic Views
The lawns of Hearst Castle are a green paradise, with terraced gardens, colorful flowers, and tidily groomed landscapes with Mediterranean, Italian, and Spanish architectural styles.
While we strolled along the groomed pathways, tall Italian cypress trees and foliage from all over the world were all around.
The terraces offer some of the Pacific Ocean's most breathtakingly beautiful ocean and mountain vistas. I paused gazing out at the distant scenery and breathing the cool air - sunlight peeping through the leaves of the trees. Simply appreciating the ageless beauty throughout the landscape surrounding me.
An Outdoor Pool Fashioned of Ancient Rome
The Neptune Pool is a magnificent outdoor pool, reminiscent of the splendor of the ancient temples of Greece and Rome. Nestled on the hillside that overlooks rolling hills, it is one of the most iconic luxuries and beauty structures on the estate.
Constructed of white and blue marble from Vermont and Italy the pool itself is timeless. The colossal colonnades, classical statues, and ornate temple fronts surrounding the pool bring visitors into an age that appears to be a part of royal Roman baths.
A grand marble staircase majestically leads into the water, adding to its stately beauty, and a lovely marble pavilion in the style of ancient temples. The materials and attention to detail make Neptune Pool, not just a place to swim but a work of art.
104 feet by 58 feet in size, and 3.5 to 10 feet deep, it was both a swimming pool and an area for lavish social parties. The open setting was perfect for Hearst's elaborate parties, when Hollywood stars, political figures, and society friends would mix in the lavish atmosphere.
The sunny outdoor setting of the pool and natural light give a dazzling sight of light, crystal clear water, and marble floors glinting all day long.
Regardless of whether observed in the glow of California sunshine or perhaps aglow at night under a starry sky, the pool remains the essence of luxury, social status, and architectural distinction.
Swimming in the pool is no longer allowed for regular visitors today. There are rare exceptions however when Hearst Castle sponsors special swimming events such as part of fundraising for the Foundation At Hearst Castle.
A Masterpiece of Mosaic Art and Roman Elegance
The Roman Pool is a beautiful indoor pool, a duplicate of the majestic Roman baths in ancient Rome. It was built between 1927 and 1934 and is enclosed completely, covered with elaborate mosaics on the floors, walls, and ceiling.
Employing the Thermae of Caracalla as a model, the pool features a gold and blue theme with one-inch glass tesserae, several of them topped with marbleized 24-karat gold leaf. Can you just imagine how opulent the style is? It creates an iridescent, glowing look, especially with artificial light. Marble statues of Greek and Roman gods, geometric patterns, and well-adorned borders contribute to its ageless look.
81 feet long, 31 feet wide, and 10 feet deep, crystal water mirrors the amazing mosaic floor. The still water reflects the beauty that is around it so perfectly that it feels like an illusion to the eye.
The** Roman Pool** is a private, secluded sanctuary —a retreat for soft conversation, and an escape from the outside world for an evening of luxury.
The beautiful gardens and pools are one of the unforgettable moments of our tour to Hearst Castle. The Neptune Pool, as a whole, is an excess of excesses. The Roman Pool with ornate tiles is a dream of past glory. Hearst Castle is a fusion of art, architecture, and nature.
Thank you for reading.