Following the rule that the icons on the motel sign have no relation to the actual shape of the place it advertises, the Homestead has a charming little two-story house with a sharply pitched roof and a picket fence.

The back of the card for this San Luis Obispo hostel says “Gateway to Hearst Castle” – an abode somewhat grander than this place, but no doubt less cozy.

Unless Hearst had a replica of a small motel built somewhere on the grounds, which I wouldn’t have put past him.