BERNARDUS LODGE & SPA.
When Bernardus Lodge & Spa opened in 1999, it reflected the vision of its founder, Santa Lucia Highlands vintner and race car driver Ben Pon, as a place where his friends might stay: a low-key but luxurious, residential-style resort with acres of vineyards and gardens. Although Pon sold the Lodge in late 2013 to focus on his Bordeaux-style wines, the new owners have retained his accommodating approach while renovating virtually every corner of the 28-acre resort, including its previously updated and still celebrated Lucia restaurant. To stay in one of the 12 new villa suites, which debuted last August, is to sample the new premier grand cru of Carmel Valley — and still feel like a friend of Ben.
Setting: A tranquil slice of Tuscany (or is it Napa?), wedged between Carmel Valley’s green mountains. It’s 2 miles west of Carmel Valley Village and its many wine tasting rooms, and 10 miles east of Highway 1.
The appeal: Upscale privacy with laidback communality. A number of the 57 original units face the large croquet court or heated lap pool, while all guests have access to the new, adults-only, elevated whirlpool by the villas. Rooms feature two-person soaking tubs, heated marble floors, gas fireplaces (two in the villas), Frette linens and down comforters, new light-hardwood floors, Nespresso machines and plush seating. The beautifully appointed villas (from 1,050 to 2,100 square feet) add bathrooms the size of most hotel rooms with double showers and, in some cases, outdoor showers and lounging areas; some villas also offer large patios with fire pits, dining sets and lounges.
Insider’s tips: The concierge has a number of free winery tasting-room passes; the front desk offers locally made honey and a few other choice items for sale. On weekends, complimentary yoga classes are followed by guided hikes in Garland Ranch, weather permitting. Book a spa treatment on March 20 and enjoy a full day of spring equinox events, including wine and honey tastings, yoga and soap making. Good to know: Given the $30-a-night resort fee and state and local taxes, plan to pay $70-$100 more a night than the rates listed below. Thankfully, the first round of drinks and gourmet snacks found in rooms — including Bernardus wines, craft beer, soft drinks, artisan cheese, chocolatecovered cashews, etc.— is free. Complimentary use of one of four Mercedes SUVs and convertibles is first-come, first-served. Details: 415 W. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley. (831) 658-3400, www.bernarduslodge.com. Weekday rates from $325 rooms, $765 villa suites; weekends from $475 and $915, respectively.