Carmel and Carmel Valley California are blessed with more wonders than any area should be allowed. The food and wine are superb, the hotels exceptional and the scenery – and golf – unsurpassed. Carmel Beach is a luscious, white sand affair that goes on forever. The fact that Pebble Beach Golf Course is on one end doesn’t hurt.
The 17-Mile Drive is one of the great drives of the world. Be sure to stop at the Lone Cypress for an iconic photo. And be sure to drive all of the coastal route. The inland portion is lovely but can’t compare to the ocean views.
You don’t need a convertible to enjoy the 17-Mile Drive. But it’s a great way to enjoy the ride.
Carmel features lovely shops of all sorts and beautiful landscaping. Try a walking wine tour with the city’s winery passport program . And be sure to stop at Hog’s Breath Inn, owned by actor Clint Eastwood.
Be sure to stop off at Pebble Beach to admire the views if you take the 17-Mile Drive. This is one of the most beautiful – and best – golf courses on the planet.
La Playa Carmel is a hotel that features fantastic views of Carmel Bay. Not to mention a pretty pool and lovely landscaping and bikes you can borrow.
Rooms at Playa Carmel are large and well-appointed. They have free wine-tasting in the evening and free chocolate chip cookes and milk at night. Not to mention California sparkling wine at their fine buffet breakfast.
Carmel Valley is usually warmer and less foggy than Carmel-by-the-Sea, which is on the ocean. Try a morning walk at Garland Ranch park for a true sense of the valley’s geography.
Chateau Julien is one of dozens of fine wineries in Carmel Valley. They do great tours and their Merlots and Chardonnays are marvellous.
Bernardus Winery is another top spot in Carmel Valley, with knowledgeable staff and fantastic Monterey County Pinot Noirs you can try.
Quail Lodge is a fantastic resort in Carmel Valley. You’ll find lovely landscaping and a fine golf course. Nine holes are currently under renovation but the other nine are open for play. Edgar’s restaurant in the golf clubhouse serves excellent food, including a fantastic kale salad with almonds, peppers and feta cheese.
Carmel bills itself as the most dog-friendly spot in the U.S. Quail Lodge even has Max, a Tor-Bec (Toronto-Quebec) poodle who’s known as the head of p.r. – pet relations. Max’w owner, Sarah Cruse, is the hotel GM and hails from Toronto.
