Attraction Guide: Tor House and Hawk Tower, Carmel-by-the-Sea, United States

Tor House and Hawk Tower Guide

Tor House and Hawk Tower: A Poet's Sanctuary by the Sea Guide

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the world of poet Robinson Jeffers at Tor House and Hawk Tower, a unique and historically significant landmark in Carmel-by-the-Sea. This rugged stone house, built by Jeffers himself, stands as a testament to his artistic vision and his deep connection to the natural world. Explore the house, the tower, and the surrounding gardens, and gain a deeper understanding of Jeffers' life and work. Robinson Jeffers, a prominent American poet of the 20th century, began building Tor House in 1919. He and his wife, Una, lived there for over 50 years. Jeffers personally quarried the granite stones from the nearby beach and constructed the house and the iconic Hawk Tower with his own hands. The tower, inspired by Irish round towers, served as Jeffers' writing sanctuary and a symbol of his enduring spirit. The property reflects Jeffers' philosophy of "inhumanism," which emphasized the importance of nature over humanity. Guided tours of Tor House and Hawk Tower are available and highly recommended. These tours provide fascinating insights into Jeffers' life, his poetry, and the construction of the buildings. You'll have the opportunity to see the rooms where Jeffers lived and wrote, climb the Hawk Tower for breathtaking views of the coastline, and explore the beautiful gardens that surround the property. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated with Tor House, consider enjoying a picnic lunch on the beach after your visit, inspired by the rugged beauty that Jeffers so eloquently captured in his poetry.