It has nothing to do with Madge, Guy Ritchie and post-divorce property distribution. Rather, this eccentric roadside attraction is a bastion of kitsch and an homage to questionable taste. But all in good fun. Think Alice in Wonderland meets Dr. Seuss — in the 1950s.

The 109 guest rooms at The Madonna Inn, just off Highway 1 in San Luis Obispo, run the gamut in theme from the Caveman (a rustic den of floor-to-ceiling solid rock with a cascading waterfall) to the Irish Hills (a green and gilted affair more garish than Irish) to the Krazy Dazy room (swathed in oversized pink and white daisy printed wallpaper with a Pepto-Bismol-colored shag rug). Cascading waterfalls and large boulders are featured in several of the other rooms and bathrooms.

Outlandish decor isn’t confined to guest rooms. Pink is lavished on walls and surfaces and even the sugar served in the outrageously tricked-out Copper Cafe  is pink. If you don’t stay overnight, it is worth it to stop by for lunch at the coffee shop, dinner at the Gold Rush restaurant or just to rummage around at the gift shop and bakery.

The Madonna Inn is a popular lodging destination for those traveling to Hearst Castle. If you’re looking to stay in one of the more outrageous rooms, plan ahead. Room rates are from $179-$449. Some rooms are in need of updating but the new pool/spa is a lovely, restful addition to this curious, fun-spirited dwelling.

Photo by Dan Dion