Every so often, we visit a property that truly takes our breath away. The photos we had seen of Bernardus Lodge & Spa looked beautiful, but the second we stepped foot on the property we realized photos simply don’t do it justice.
Nestled amongst the rolling hills of the Carmel Valley, Bernardus Lodge & Spa is a postcard-perfect oasis. In 2015, the property underwent an impressive multi-million dollar renovation. Today, lush gardens weave through the 28 acres, lavender perfumes the air, and 73 suites carefully dot the property, each beautifully designed and decorated.
Our suite entailed a spacious living area and patio complete with a fire pit, and an equally large bedroom. The bathroom was the true gem of the experience; the indoor a double vanity space then opened to a two-person copper soaking tub and a heavenly multi-spigot rain shower. The private, enclosed bathroom patio featured an outdoor shower and lounger to relax on afterwards.
With Chef Cal Stamenov at the helm, the focus at Bernardus is the wine and food. Their winery produces delicious pinots and chardonnays. At the on-site restaurant Lucia, your meal is sure to be outstanding. From the lobster and corn soup to the mushroom ragu, everything we tried was delicious. There are also two private dining options here – a chef’s table in the kitchen (where Julia Child was one of the first to dine) and a private table in the wine cellar. Better start planning your next celebration now!
Just minutes from Carmel-by-the-Sea, spend one afternoon exploring the area. As a guest at Bernardus, you can borrow the house Mercedes SL550 Convertible or 450 GL SUV.
At Bernardus, there are endless things to do once you’ve relaxed and rested in your lovely room. The front lawn has bocce ball, croquet, and a putting green. The pool is gorgeous and serene – the perfect place to spend the afternoon after visiting the spa.
One of the loveliest surprises for us was the rose garden, though the name is a bit of a misnomer. Roses do line the pebble walkway but the garden is bursting with chrysanthemums, succulents, herbs and vegetables for Lucia, and a children’s flower patch filled with brilliant wildflowers.
Bernardus is where you go when you’re seeking the beauty and tranquility of nature. Whether you’re traveling with your beau, visiting for a girls trip, or taking the family away for a few days, there is truly no better place to stay in Carmel Valley.
Compass + Twine was a welcomed guest of Bernardus Lodge & Spa and thanks them for an amazing stay. All opinions are our own.
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