Gravel
Coming in at just a few feet under 30 miles, this challenging loop heads from Cambria to San Simeon and then into the hills on a route that includes intense gravel riding, steep inclines, and some truly incredible views. Whether you choose to ride it as a stand-alone route or tack it onto another Cambria-based route for some added grit, this is sure to be an adventure that gets you off the beaten path. Beginning in the heart of Cambria, you’ll have the chance to fuel up at local restaurants before motivating yourself up the side of a mountain, then finishing right back in familiar territory.
The Hearst San Simeon State Park boasts coastal bluffs, natural and cultural preserves, and a trail with scenic overlooks. Take a slight detour to enjoy this stunning natural wonderland, or continue on the route and just take in the views from the road.
At the north end of Moonstone Beach, you’ll find Leffingwell Landing, a part of Hearst San Simeon State Park. There are public restrooms here, as well as picnic tables and trails that lead to some beautiful ocean overlooks.
A must-sip coffee shop in Cambria, Lily’s Coffeehouse is a great place to fuel up before a ride with delicious desserts and snacks. The shop also has an eclectic assortment of gifts and accessories, so if there’s space in your schedule, take a few minutes to browse.
Linn’s began as one family’s American dream. The year was 1977, and John and Renee Linn left the big city behind to farm fertile but rugged land on the Central Coast. Less than a decade later, the couple had a bustling fruit and produce stand, where the olallieberry-a then almost-unheard-of fruit that crossed a blackberry with a raspberry-reigned supreme, especially in Renee’s pies. Customers kept asking for more, and in 1989, a little red brick restaurant named Linn’s opened in Cambria’s historic East Village. Serving hearty breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, Linn’s also has small plate choices, offers Hearst Ranch beef and naturally, bakes lots of olallieberry treats. Grab a slice of pie for your dessert, or pick up a personal pie to-go!
Founded in 1871, Stepladder Ranch Creamery is a farmstead creamery that raises goats and makes cheese from their milk. Family-owned-and-operated, this unique gem is a must-see on the Central Coast. For tours, call ahead and make an advanced reservation.
The William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach, the closest beach to Hearst Castle, was once used as a port for receiving antiquities for the hilltop mansion. With picnic sites, parking, restrooms, and barbecue facilities, this is a fun spot for extended relaxation. If you’re anxious to get back on the road, just pause and take in the beautiful view at the William Randolph Hearst Memorial View Point.