If you’ve ever wanted to take a dip in the Roman-style Neptune Pool at Hearst Castle, now is your chance. The pool, once beloved by Hollywood stars like Joan Crawford, Howard Hughes and even Lady Gaga (who filmed her music video for “G.U.Y.” at the castle), is letting guests take a swim in the lavish oasis for just four dates. The pool, designed by Julia Morgan, is nearly 90 years old and was just reopened in October. Guests can take the plunge on July 6, August 3 & 24 and September 21.
The famous Neptune Pool is located at Hearst Castle, a massive estate built by media tycoon William Randolph Hearst (of Hearst Media). Located atop a hill in San Simeon, the castle’s design was inspired by Europe’s art and architecture at the time. Its situated on nearly 270,000 acres of ranchland which the Hearst family still owns and operates today. In its heyday, the home played host to many a celebrity from the 1920s and ‘30s including Hollywood starlets like Charlie Chaplin, Greta Garbo and Joan Crawford and other notable figures like Howard Hughes, Winston Churchill and Calvin Coolidge among others. Today, the home is open to the public for a variety of tours. The stunning castle is celebrating its 100th birthday next year.
Hearst Castle and its Neptune Pool are not the only reason to visit Central California. The castle is located along the Highway 1 Discovery Route, an easy way to check out the central coast. The region is home to amazing wineries, wild animals like Clydesdales and elephant seals, amazing stargazing, beautiful scenery and great food. Plus, getting there is easier than ever with daily nonstop flights from Phoenix.
For our complete guide to the Highway 1 Discovery Route and everything to see and do, click here.
Click here for more information on the Neptune Pool swim events.