Storms force famous Big Sur monastary to close doors to visitors

The New Camaldoli Hermitage in Big Sur, known nationwide for its prayer retreats and famous fruitcakes, is staying closed to guests for now.

The community posted on social media that winter storms were just too brutal this winter, and after meeting with an advisor and geologist have decided they’ll stay closed until Highway 1 reopens. They’re not alone. Countless people and businesses were stranded after storms forced the Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge to be demolished, splitting the Big Sur community in half.