Bernardus Lodge Carmel Valley travel guide

Location. The Bernardus Lodge is nestled in the hills and vineyards of Carmel Valley, Calif. The property is one mile from Garland Ranch Regional Park and five miles from Laguna Seca Raceway.

Hotel Features. Named to the Conde Nast Traveler Gold List 2008, the Bernardus Lodge is a ranch-style resort featuring plank flooring, stone fireplaces and timber-beamed ceilings. Guests are greeted upon arrival with a glass of vintage wine created at the property's signature winery. Fresh-cut flowers and fruit are scattered throughout the hotel. A full-service spa features a private soaking pool, warming room and meditation garden with bubbling fountains. Spa treatments include Vichy showers, herbal massages and skincare treatments, and vinotherapies using wines from the Bernardus Winery. Formal, fireside dining at Marinus offers a menu that changes daily and highlights local produce, grains and meats. Wickets offers bistro-style dining on a terrace. Both restaurants offer views of the property and the surrounding mountains. A bocce field, fitness center, seasonal outdoor pool and tennis courts are available for guest use. Complimentary wireless Internet access is available.

Guestrooms. The 57 guestrooms feature rustic, ranch-style décor. Rooms open to reveal vaulted ceilings and stone fireplaces. French doors lead to private furnished patios. Beds include pillowtop mattresses and featherbeds swathed in Frette linens and down comforters. Turndown service is performed each evening. Complimentary wine grotto minibars are offered. Bathrooms feature soaking tubs large enough for two adults. Other bathroom amenities include tile and granite accents, dual vanities, scales, bathrobes and slippers.

Expert Tip. Indulge your appetite and your mind by reserving the chef's table in Marinus' main kitchen. You can talk to the chef as he prepares your meal using local, organic ingredients.