Luxe PLACES
MEET ME IN MONTEREY Wine, whales and wonder await in Northern California
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
Less than a two-hour flight from the Valley, Northern California’s Monterey County boasts the gorgeous locales of Carmel, Pebble Beach, Big Sur and, of course, Monterey Bay. With a fraction of the crowds that descend on the area in the late spring and summer months, this time of year marks the sneaky best time to visit. Here is our handy guide on where to stay and what to do all season long, and you can find even more information at www.seemonterey.com.
Stay Inn at Spanish Bay If there is a golfer in the family, this resort needs no introduction. The Inn at Spanish Bay is situated on the historic, iconic Pebble Beach (and its golf course), which is on the western edge of the Monterey Peninsula along the Pacific Ocean. A blend of old-world charm and luxury, the resort has newly renovated rooms and suites with cozy fireplaces, a sophisticated design and unrivaled views of the course, ocean and surrounding forest. With first class always in focus, the resort offers complimentary Lexus test drives to guests as well as five award-wining dining destinations, nightly bagpipers who “put the golf course to sleep” at dusk, and even its own wine cellar experience with more than 250 bottles by the taste, glass and bottle. Carmel Valley Ranch Upon arrival at the newly renovated Carmel Valley Ranch, it’s impossible not to drink in the heady fragrance of fresh lavender growing on the nearby hillside. In addition to the sheer beauty of this family-friendly resort, because of its location, the climate tends to be a lot warmer, sunnier and less foggy than the coast – especially during winter months. In addition to being one of the top resort destinations in the U.S. (opt for a lavender suite, by the way) they have one of the most unique on-site activities you’ll find anywhere: A bee experience, which puts you in a beekeeper suit for the buzziest adventure in the area.
Play Carmel Valley Wine Tasting The Carmel Valley Wine region is among the most beloved in the world, and for good reason. Many of the area’s award-winning wineries – including Bernardus Winery, Holman Ranch Vineyards, Cima Collina Winery and Joullian Vineyards – are within walking distance of each other and focused on giving guests personal interactions versus simply tasting and selling wines day in and day
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So Scottsdale! February ‘18