The Hidden Gem of Carmel Valley Bernardus Lodge and Spa By Karina Y. Sotelo
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nsconced 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 73room 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 oldworld 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, custom 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 whisperquiet sanctuary where countless brides and grooms have recited their vows amid twoacres 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 wines, indulgent twoperson soaking tubs, and ultra-comfortable king-size featherbeds with fluffed pillows and high-thread count Italian linens. Single and two-story premium rooms have sizable balconies and patios with wonderful views of the pastoral scenery. Suites and villas are sophisticated and extravagant in every sense, but there is an intimate and relaxing vibe that manifests throughout these refined accommodations. Each space is classically designed in an inviting earth-toned palette with punctuations of elegant purples and rich plums that echo the beautiful hues of lavender and grapes from the outside gardens and vineyards. Notable features include: an airy, commodious living room that is wealthily furnished in weathered wood grain textures, layered patterns and custom fabrics, sparkling crown-shaped chandeliers, a mirrored wet bar with glass shelves and a pair of creamcolored French doors that brighten the entire room and open-wide to patios, terraces or balconies bedecked in a combination of September 2021
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