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THE HIDDEN GEM OF CARMEL VALLEY BERNARDUS LODGE AND SPA
By Karina Y. Sotelo
Escape to a luxurious bucolic hideaway where the senses and soul connect to the earth.
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Ensconced in the heart of Monterey County’s beautiful Carmel Valley, Bernardus Lodge and Spa is an intimate and luxurious countryside retreat that embodies the quintessential wine country escape. The prized winemaking estate is set among 28-acres of serene verdant gardens, groves, orchards and boundless rolling hills of lush grapevines that effortlessly meld into the breathtaking Santa Lucia mountains in the distance. Designed to exist in perfect harmony with nature and resound its peaceful surrounds, the 73-room property emanates sophistication and relaxation in its contemporary California ranch-style layout and Mediterranean influence and flair. Sun-soaked ochres, creamy toffees, and rich terracottas wash the entire exterior, exquisitely complimented by traditional Italian stonework. The interior combines the simplistic characteristics of old-world Tuscan charm and accessorized with sumptuous new-world comforts: exposed stone walls, vaulted ceilings with dark stained wooden beams, French patio doors and oak floors, adorned with rustic-chic wooden furnishings, cus-
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tom antique-style accent rugs, and opulent crystal chandeliers. There are a myriad of activities and indulgences found on the premises, including an elegant farm-to-table restaurant with an exclusive chef’s table, an indoor and outdoor bar, a wine cellar, a decadent spa, heated pools, and tennis, bocce, croquet lawns and courts. But, perhaps the most romantic feature about this resort is its garden, a whisper-quiet sanctuary where countless brides and grooms have recited their vows amid two-acres of fragrant roses and sweet lavender, organic herbs, seasonal vegetables, edible plants, and splendid water fountains. The garden is also an apiary to hundreds of thousands honey-producing bees that create the purest ingredients for the kitchen, bar and the spa. THE ACCOMMODATIONS Inspired by the colors and elements of nature, the property exhibits sheer luxury and countryside living in a collection of single and two-story rooms, suites and villas. The 73-guestrooms are spacious and lavishly styled in rustic and eclectic décor, uniquely appointed with high-end conveniences including fireplaces, dining tables, cozy chairs and sofas, a bar thoughtfully curated with select Bernardus
Metropolitan Magazine | 25AMagazine.com
