In 2016, I had the opportunity to stay at the Hotel Paradox, located in Santa Cruz, California. I had never visited such a place before! I literally thought I was stepping into nature.
When I first started developing my website and blog, the Hotel Paradox came to mind. I knew I had to write about my experience and how it made me FEEL: like I was stepping into a forest; like the walls ended and the earth began; as if I had just stepped outside into an untouched natural landscape; at peace as the anxieties of the day-to-day hustle disappeared and I was enveloped in the natural world.
The Paradox Factor
Accustomed to concrete streets, high-rise buildings, and fluorescent lights - walking into the antithesis of our man-made world is incredibly refreshing, and the best way I can imagine to begin a vacation or getaway.
The Hotel Paradox does just that!
The front entrance and outside area of the hotel has a very modern and contemporary look (which I love in design). When I first walked into the hotel lobby, I automatically got the WOW factor. The lobby desk is literally a giant reclaimed eucalyptus tree. (Now who is the genius behind this idea, because I looooove it!) If the lobby desk alone does not make you feel connected to the natural surrounding beauty of California's Central Coast, then I don't know what will. The giant eucalyptus is a fallen tree collected and repurposed by a tree specialist and found by the hotel’s principal interior designer, David Oldroyd.
The majestic reclaimed eucalyptus tree.
As I explored every area of the hotel, I slowly forgot I was indoors and lost myself in the natural beauty of this place. From the artwork, to the tree branches covering the walls, to the “forest” room, to the bird nest chandelier in the meeting room. I’m telling you, the devil is in the details. This place offers some serious natural elements to their decor. The juxtaposition between modern and natural elements are executed so beautifully.
These design concepts are continued into the guest bedrooms as well. There’s a warmth to the guest rooms as you enter - from the rustic reclaimed wooden headboards to the river rock inside the showers. Stepping into the shower stall and feeling the rock beneath my feet reminded me of swimming in a stream. These features made my stay feel extra relaxing!
And to top it off, you can bring your pooch or cat to stay with you and share in the experience as well. Imagine that!
Now let’s talk about the other extras that the hotel has to offer.
The Winter Wildlife Package
Although being in Santa Cruz, you’re already surrounded by the majestic coast, towering redwood forests, and countless outdoor activities; it may not seem like an ideal winter vacation destination. But did you know the Hotel Paradox offers a “Winter Wildlife Package?” When I stayed here, it was in the middle of summer so I did not take advantage of this. This package offers a stay at a discounted rate and provides informative wildlife activities, such as viewing the Monarch Butterflies at Natural Bridges State Beach, watching the whale migrations at Monterey Bay from shore or boat, or going on a guided tour to see the elephant seals at Año Nuevo State Park.
So really there’s no excuse not to visit and stay here year-round. Even in the wintertime, you can feel connected to nature, the coastline, and the local (or more like migrating) wildlife.
The Eco Features
Now, let’s talk a little about eco-friendly practices. The natural design features, contemporary decor, and giant reclaimed wood lobby desk are what I call the cake itself. The eco-friendly practices and the little extras (such as the Winter Wildlife Package - see above) are the icing of the cake. A nature inspired design hotel should not be without its “green” initiatives. You just can’t design a hotel that’s supposed to connect you to nature without the sustainability practices to back it up. Some of these initiatives include eco-friendly bath products, conserving your linens during your stay, and stations to refill your personal water bottles to cut back on plastic waste. I love this idea!
Unwind in Nature
I loved being able to unwind in nature. If you find yourself heading to Santa Cruz, I highly recommend staying here. You won’t be disappointed. I sure would love to come back again. And next time I’ll bring my dog Bailey to share in the experience with me as well!
(Peek-a-boo --- relaxing in the cabanas by the pool)
Thank you to the Hotel Paradox for a wonderful stay.
Thank you for reading and letting me share my experience unwinding in nature.
-Monica :)