Lucia restaurant terrace at Bernardus Lodge & Spa
Point out of Carmel possible brings to thoughts the storybook cottages and sandy seashores of “Carmel-by-the-Sea.” However there’s one other Carmel that deserves equal billing. It’s the model that’s warmed by a solar that usually evades its coastal cousin. It’s the Carmel that options mountaineering and biking trails, championship golf programs, working ranches, a 4,000-acre regional park, and award-winning Bernardus Lodge & Spa, the area’s most gracious hospitality possibility.
Bernardus Lodge & Spa entry
Bernardus Lodge & Spa foyer
Positioned within the coronary heart of inland Carmel Valley and surrounded by the spectacular Santa Lucia Mountains, Bernardus is a lavender and grape vine-studded haven. The Forbes Journey Information twelve-star institution options every part one would possibly require for a luxuriant and stress-free getaway: a luxurious spa, a health room, an expansive 10,000 sq. foot bocce garden, heated pool and two scorching tubs, vacation spot restaurant, verdant gardens wherein to walk, and fire-warmed nooks wherein to nestle. Even after a number of stays through the years, I proceed to seek out one thing new every go to, like the comfy, tree-hanging hammock tucked inside a shaded nook, or the charming youngsters’s backyard the place wee visitors have sown assorted vegetable seeds.
Bernardus Lodge & Spa suite terrace
Greater than 20 Central Coast wineries and wine tasting rooms are a hop and a skip away. Garland Ranch Regional Park, a popular mountaineering spot for all ranges, is straight adjoining. And Refuge, a two-acre water park of thalassotherapy swimming pools is simply down the highway. But as soon as on the Bernardus property, visitors discover little cause to enterprise forth. A heat greeting begins at check-in with a suggestion of a glass of Provencal-made Bernardus Rosé, and continues with free of charge in-room snacks and drinks and turn-down sweets—easy but beneficiant gestures that really make a welcoming distinction.
Bernardus’ 73 giant rooms and suites are luxuriously geared up to please even probably the most pampered traveler. Scattered all through the property and overlooking both the primary pool, the central bocce and croquet garden, or the rose and chef’s gardens, every is the epitome of ranch home stylish that includes refined décor, comfortable furnishings, and heated toilet flooring—a extremely underestimated indulgence. The resort’s villas are the selection for these searching for a bit extra dwelling area. Plus, they supply fast entry to the adults-only infinity whirlpool and hearth pit with mountain and winery views. At 1050 and 2100 sq. ft, these deluxe quarters function vaulted ceilings, French doorways, giant grasp baths with free-standing hammered copper soaking tubs, al fresco showers, double sided fireplaces, and totally furnished non-public patios with hearth pits.
Bernardus Lodge & Spa visitor room
Bernardus Lodge & Spa villa toilet
On-site Lucia restaurant alone is value a go to. Its all-season, al fresco eating terrace is a fascinating spot wherein to dine, as is the chandeliered important eating room. Lengthy below the purview of founding chef Cal Stamenov, Lucia enters a brand new period with Government Chef Christian Ojeda, previously of Montage Deer Valley Resort. Ojeda’s model is progressive, with a recent tackle classics which he infuses with native, seasonal influences. A lot of his elements, similar to Meyer lemons and recent herbs, come straight from the restaurant’s two-acre natural backyard and a few dishes function honey gathered from the property’s apiary program that options Italian honey bees. And with a 15,000 bottle wine cellar and a garden-to-glass craft cocktail program, visitors are positive to seek out the right aperitif and wine pairing.
Lucia restaurant terrace and eating room
For additional pampering, don’t miss The Spa at Bernardus, providing an in-depth, individualized strategy to wellness. Indulgent remedies are infused with botanical elements, many culled from the native vineyards and on-site gardens. Earlier than or after your remedy, benefit from the spa’s non-public warming pool, or pull up a chaise close to the bigger pool that overlooks the bocce courts and outside terrace. And don’t miss the spa boutique’s nice assortment of clothes and items, significantly the road of eye-catching ladies’s swimsuits, made expressly for the resort.
The Spa at Bernardus warming pool
Lastly, one in every of Bernardus’ most charming options is its workers. It’s no secret that the hospitality business has suffered a bit in recent times; staffing has been a problem worldwide. However Bernardus has been profitable in sustaining its longtime group. Many staff have been with the resort 20, 15, and 10 years, making a household like ambiance the place each visitor is made to really feel welcome and appreciated.
Bernardus Lodge & Spa celebrates 25 years in 2024! Search for a wide range of upcoming festive meals and beverage applications that can mark the grand event.
Photographs courtesy of Bernardus Lodge & Spa
