California Dreamin' – The Madonna Inn

You don't have to be a spelunker to spend a night in a cave. Just rent the Caveman room at the Madonna Inn. If the animal prints and stone pond in the bedroom with solid rock walls, ceiling, and floor don't make you feel like one of the Jetsons, step into the bathroom where the waterfall shower tumbling over rock will convince you.

One of the Shell and Stone Sinks

If you're more interested in above ground pursuits, try the Time of Your Life room which is designed to evoke New Orleans' Mardi Gras. Surrounded by traditional Mardi Gras colors and a French-Quarter-feel bathroom with lots of glitter and glam, you can laissez les bon temps rouler (let the good times roll).

Two Views of the Bar

If neither of these rooms appeal, there are 107 others to choose from, with each one sporting a unique theme. All of the unusual rooms are luxuriously appointed and have distinctive features such as rock waterfall showers or stone fireplaces.

Of course, much as we would have enjoyed a night in New Orleans, that room and all the others considerably exceeded our budget. David and I had to be satisfied with a stroll around the grounds. Still, since every inch of the restaurant, bar, bakery, and bathrooms is hand-carved, gilded or embellished, we enjoyed this walk almost as much as a night of Mardi Gras.  And, someday, who knows, we just might return for a splurge in the Travelers' Suite.

Practicalities - 

The Madonna Inn is just off Highway 101 in San Luis Obispo, California. Take the Madonna Road exit.  Room rates range from $169-449.  At the website, click on "Accommodations" and then "Room Features Grid" to see all 109 rooms and their descriptions.