Fall 2024

few miles from home. Bernardus boasts a Tuscan style ambiance right here—just minutes from the bustle of Carmel-by-the-Sea—set amidst the oak-dotted golden hills of Carmel Valley. So for those who don’t have the time to travel to the Italian countryside this fall, a visit to this sun-kissed spot is a lovely, quick and easy alternative. The property includes lush native and deco- rative plant gardens, an extensive organic kitchen garden, vineyards and even an olive grove, with the 73-room resort nestled at the center of it all. Arrival at the main lodge is a wel- coming experience where you’re greeted with a glass of Bernardus rosé.The main lodge features the lobby lounge, Lucia restaurant (with its inti- mate tables and glittering chandeliers), and the more casual bar and lounge. For music lovers, there’s an adjacent grand piano whose keys are tickled by professional pianists on Friday and Saturday nights and there’s even live music each Saturday and Sunday for brunch. 146 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • F A L L 2 0 2 4 (Above) Suites feature generous outdoor areas with firepits and views of the Santa Lucia Mountains. (Below) Nestled at the center of the resort, the lush bocce and croquet lawn is a favorite gathering spot. Photos: Renato Films