Madonna Inn #MurphysDoLA

Have you ever stayed at a place that truly blew you away? That’s what happened to us at the Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo (SLO)! The Madonna Inn(it’s more of a resort than an Inn really!)  is one of those places that really has to be experienced first hand but we’re here to share our experience at this family friendly resort nestled halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco. Our stay here has been one of the most memorable moments we’ve narrated to family and friends on our return from LA and with good reason. I sum this resort as an Alice in Wonderland meets Barbie meets Sugar Plum Fairy. Everything is so elegant yet whimsical with a hint of make believe.

The Madonna Inn is world famous and has seen many a celebrity come through, yes including Madonna who has no affiliation with the resort’s name. The Inn is family owned and while Mr. Madonna has passed away, his wife and daughter now manage the property. It’s remarkable to think that the Madonna Inn was established in 1958 with just 12 rooms and soon expanded to 40. In 1966 there was a fire and by the end of the decade they had everything rebuilt and expanded to 110 rooms. The Madonna Inn sits on over 1,000 acres and the large rocks used in the construction came from these surrounding areas…truly exquisite! 

Disclosure : We were invited for a complimentary stay but as always, opinions are totally mine! 

The resort has 110 uniquely (VERY uniquely) themed rooms that include everything from rock waterfall showers to carousel horses! I kid you not. They have a jungle room, enough said right?  We were staying in the American Room and the place was huge! Not only did the Little Monkey have plenty of room to run around but we had a lovely lounge area in front of a cozy fireplace where we relaxed once the kids had gone to bed. Not only did we have two queen beds in the room but we also had two cribs. The Little Monkey decided that she wanted a bed so she took one of the beds with no objection from us.

My brother was visiting a friend of his in SLO and when they found out that the hubs and I were staying at the Madonna Inn with the two kids…they asked to come visit. Ofcourse! Everyone wants to see what it’s like in here! Any guesses on what grabbed our attention in the room? The toilet. The what? you ask. Well I really should do a dedicated review on this phenomenal invention but I’ll sum it up for you. A potty that not only has heated seats but one that washes your nether regions (front and back!!!) and even dries everything for you. I’m surprised it didn’t send me an email once it was all done! Honestly this toilet was superb. I want one. A toilet that does nearly everything for you.. hah! Brilliant! The only downside of the room was the height of the tub…it was definitely very tricky getting in and out. However everything else was mind blowing. The ornate designs and red and gold furnishings definitely reminded me of the Arabian surroundings I grew up with. Yet with all of this there was no qualms about a toddler running around (we kept the fireplace off until she went to bed). The room we stayed at was part of a wing that had three other rooms which could be interconnected (imagine a huge room on each floor) which would be great for multi-generational travel. You can see a full list of the various rooms on the Madonna Inn website. Aren’t they fascinating?

I was told that quite a few music videos are filmed on site and that there are many groups who not only frequent the property but dress up to match the room they stay at. Novel! When it come to relaxation in addition to the spa there’s a stunning beach-entry infinity pool, two jetted whirlpools, an enchanting gazebo, and fitness center on site. No matter your outlet you can easily find the way to kick back and relax at the Madonna Inn. In the summer months you can go horse back riding (they have some options for younger kids too) up the majestic Cerro San Luis Mountain. From where I stood that mighty mountain looked like quite a view.

I had heard many a thing about the infamous Pink Champagne Cake and got the hubby to buy me a slice when he went over to grab some lunch at the cafe. OH MY GAWD…the best cake I’ve ever had in my entire life. I’d make the trek out just to have another slice. It was divine. I didn’t get a chance to dine at any of the spots on the resort but we did have a drink at the Silver Bar. Words cannot express the design and whimsical decor throughout the space. I was told that several skilled artisans were brought in for the glass paintings and wooden carvings. When it came to the carving one famous Bavarian woodcarver did the entire dining and lounge area but sadly he didn’t get to complete one arch and to this day the family has left it incomplete in his honor. A homage if I ever did see one.

You truly must visit this place to really feel and experience the mystery and grandeur. Have your travels ever taken you to a place like this or is there a room at the Madonna Inn that you’d like to stay at?