THE NECTAR

Rooms:  Each of the 73 country-chic rooms, suites and villas of the Bernardus Lodge overwhelm their guests with embracing comfort and enchanting elegance. It’s hard to decide on what to pamper yourself with first—do you take a relaxing bath in the spacious tub, lounge in front of the fireplace with a bottle of wine, gaze at the mountain views from your own private balcony/terrace or just dive right into the crisp Italian linen of the lavish featherbeds? The interior’s soothing tones of oyster, olive and charcoal compliment the colours of the lavender blossoms, the vineyards and the hills that await you on your doorstep. If you fancy a spa experience without having to leave your room, check into one of the Bernardus Lodge’s brand new suites or villas. The free-standing copper bathtubs (a highlight of colour in the lime-green tiled bathroom), rain showers and even outdoor showers are made for luxurious hours of soul and body care.

Specials: Every little corner of this award-winning lodge is graced with lovely, thoughtful details that make the joy of hosting here obvious. The new garden architecture creates a soft ‘movement’ of the planting, so whenever you take a look outside, a most soothing feeling is created, almost unconsciously. There are many opportunities to book outstanding culinary experiences, for example in the wine cellar, in the kitchen itself or in another cooking house on site—perfect for special occasions! The exceptionally talented chef Cal Stamenov focuses on the use of local and organic produce for his seasonal cooking and most of the herbs, fruits and vegetables come straight out of his own garden or that of the Bernardus Lodge. Even the eggs are laid by  Cal’s own chickens. The appreciation of the wonderful climate of the valley is apparent in the way the Bernardus Lodge makes the most out of natural light and outdoor spaces, which you will witness every hour of the day. Last but by no means least, max out on revitalising yourself and blissing out in the luxurious and wonderful spa on site.

THE PULSE

The Bernardus Lodge is ideally positioned to make the most out of the area every day. Hop into the car and in only fifteen minutes you will reach the magnificent little coastal village of Carmel-by-the-sea. This place is full of charming surprises: Clint Eastwood used to be mayor of the town, every house looks different and is of a fascinating architecture (from gingerbread houses to minimalist architecture) and the picturesque beaches offer some great spots for surfing. Less than three minutes away nature lovers will find the entrance to the Garland Ranch, where you can hike to your heart’s content. There is a wealth of different trails you can take, according to time available and personal fitness, but every single one leads you through the magical nature of Carmel Valley. Dotted with over 25 wine tasting rooms, you can also spend your day in the valley tasting all sorts of lovely Californian wines, grab a delicious sandwich at Jerome’s Carmel Valley market afterwards and doze off on one of the heavenly sun beds next to the pool of the Bernardus Lodge.

MUST DO

Enjoy the fantastic cuisine of renowned chef Cal Stamenov at the Lucia Restaurant.

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Go on the waterfall hike at the Garland Ranch.

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Sit by one of the many fireplaces on site and have a glass of the delicious Bernardus wine.

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Play a round of Boules between spa treatments.

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Marvel at the rose garden, the chef’s garden and the herb garden.