One of the most frequent questions we hear from visitors to Carmel-by-the-Sea is, “Where are the Fairy Tale Houses?” This walking tour will address this question, as we will lead you on a walk that will take you by eleven of the more famous fairy tale style cottages in Carmel. You will learn the history behind these homes and their builder, Hugh Comstock.
Our walking tour is less than one mile, will take under one hour, and begin and end at the Carmel Plaza on Ocean Avenue and Junipero Street . It does have some steep hills and is not recommended for the handicapped.
If you have arrived in Carmel by bus, your bus undoubtedly is parked at Carmel Plaza. If you came by car, look for parking as close as possible to the Carmel Plaza. Note that most of these parking spaces have a two hour limit. There is longer term free parking outside the downtown area but be sure to check the signs.
Before we begin the tour, please note that the Carmel Visitors Center is located on the second level of the Carmel Plaza. They can help answer any questions you may have about your visit to Carmel and also have a flyer with pictures of the Fairy Tale Houses. If you are looking for a restroom, they are located on the third level of Carmel Plaza. In need of cash, the ATM is located on the second level. Desire a cup of coffee, this may be found on the first level at Carmel Coffee & Cocoa Bar.
Ocean Avenue, Carmel Plaza, Comstock Houses, Historic Hill District, Hansel & Gretel, Comstock Residence, Honeymoon Cottage, Grant Wallace Cottage, Doll’s House, Brunos Market & Deli, Devendorf Park
Start from Carmel Plaza at the southwest corner of Junipero and Ocean Avenue directly across from Devendorf Park. Carefully cross Ocean Avenue and then Junipero Street and arrive at the blue and white “The Getaway” hotel where you will start your tour.
Places to stop along the way:
Bruno's Market, Devendorf Park, Carmel Plaza
Best time of day:
Daytime hours.
Precautions:
The homes that you will be viewing are privately owned so please respect their privacy and stay behind fences and close to street.
Carmel’s streets are narrow and there are no sidewalks. Walk as close to the side of the street as possible, pay very close attention when you cross the street, and watch for uneven ground when walking. When you come to the corner, make sure that any cars coming your way see you and have stopped. The hills you will be climbing on Torres and on Sixth Avenue are short but they are quite steep. Also watch out for low hanging tree limbs. Just be mindful of your surroundings as you enjoy your tour of the Fairy Tale Houses of Carmel by the Sea.
When using VoiceMap with ear buds, it is not necessary that you have your phone out of your bag. But we have found that having your phone in front of you during these tours helps visitors stay on track. In map mode, there will be a blue dot on the map showing your location at all times. If you venture off the course you may use the blue dot to assist you getting back on the tour path. The blue dot will show your position in relation to the tour as well as upcoming stops that will trigger related audio content.
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