Big Sur: Post Ranch Inn gives guests a lift -- by helicopter

Big Sur: Post Ranch Inn gives guests a lift -- by helicopter

A view of California's Big Sur coastline, taken from a helicopter. (Joann Dost)

By Valli Herman Special to the Los Angeles Times

April 13, 2011, 4:47 p.m.

Leave it to a luxury resort to redefine "alternate route." To the Post Ranch Inn in California's Big Sur area, a 15-minute helicopter ride is the best way to avoid an hours-long detour. And starting Wednesday, you can book a package that includes the scenic flight.

Since March 16, when a section of Highway 1 collapsed north of Big Sur, about 13 miles south of Carmel, the California Department of Transportation has advised motorists to find different routes into this popular stretch of Central California.,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,