Bernardus Lodge and Spa, California

With just 73 beautifully stylish rooms, villas and suites, Bernardus Lodge retains an exclusive and private ambience whilst promising fun in the sun in the heart of Carmel Valley's wine country. Neutral tones with splashes of colour, a variety of textures from the seagrass walls to plush velvety beds and armchairs, fireplaces in every room and beautiful bathrooms throughout ensure an impeccable Bernardus experience. Wake to glorious views each morning from your private garden or balcony and enjoy a fresh coffee from your Nespresso machine and complimentary Bernardus wines and gourmet snacks from the mini-bar!

Dining is exquisite and Chef Cal creates tantalising dishes using local and seasonal ingredients with a strong farm to table ethos running through his menus. Dine in the elegant Lucia restaurant, at the communal table in the bar or outside on the terrace, warmed by the glowing firepits. An experience not to be missed, dine at the chef's table in the heart of the bustling kitchen. Enjoy a ring-side seat as fresh local produce is transformed into a sensational tasting menu before your eyes, and marvel at the graffitied walls awash with signatures and messages from celebrities who have dined there before you. If you're looking for romance, opt for a vineyard picnic, complete with gourmet delights, local wine and sensational vineyard views!

From the heated lap pool and the incredible, award-winning spa to the croquet lawn, bocce court and tennis courts, you're never short of things to do at Bernardus Lodge. If you're after a more relaxing stay, this is a heavenly escape promising blissful and indulgent downtime, plentiful local wine and wonderful valley views. Activities further afield include horse-riding, hiking in the Santa Lucia mountains and exploring Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey are within easy reach and fun to explore with abundant watersport options and gorgeous coastal scenery, whilst Big Sur's famous Bixby Creek Bridge is just a 30 minute drive away.