Fall 2024

room, wine cellar or the chef ’s table—actually inside the working kitchen—are all excellent options. The chef ’s table can accommodate up to five guests and provides direct access to Chef Ojeda and a front-row seat to all that goes on in the well-oiled machine that is the Lucia kitchen. The signatures of former guests fill the walls surrounding the table, including the likes of Julia Child and Leonardo DiCaprio. The resort’s gracious guest accommodations range in size from a 525-square-foot guestroom to a grand 2,100-square-foot, two-bedroom villa with something to suit the needs of every type of traveler.The villas and suites are set off to the east of the main lodge in a quiet residential-like area. Hardwood floors and vaulted beamed ceil- ings set the tone for the gracious ranch-style accommodations. Each features an amply-stocked butler’s pantry, private garden patio or balcony, and a large and airy spa-like bathroom. The resort also boasts a 5,300-square-foot spa with seven treatment rooms, a eucalyptus steam bath and a dry sauna. As do the menus from the kitchen and bar, the spa’s menu of treatments varies by season with a philosophy they term “garden to soul.” Fall offerings include a Pumpkin Enzyme Facial & Scalp Recovery and a Honey Dipped Massage. With all the treat- ments available, wellness workshops and ample resort facilities, chef-guided garden tours and other seasonally offered events, you could easily stay on property for your entire visit. But should you care to venture out, you can borrow a shiny new Mercedes-Benz from the resort’s fleet to explore the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel Valley or Big Sur. The resort can also arrange private guided hikes at near by Garland Ranch Regional Park as well as other outings that offer insight into the area’s incredible natural surroundings. Pon passed away in 2019, but six years before his death, he found an excellent successor to carry the resort into its next era. Since taking the reigns in 2013, Ensemble Investments LLC has undertaken additions and upgrades to the resort, keeping the property current and fresh while honoring the legacy of Pon’s original vision. Now in its 25th year, Bernardus Lodge & Spa continues to provide accommodations steeped in quality and comfort with the gracious and friendly service to match, making it a delightful respite and the perfect place to visit when you need to get away, but don’t want to go too far. Bernardus Lodge & Spa is located at 415 W. Carmel Valley Road, in Carmel Valley. For more information, visit www.bernarduslodge.com or call 831/298-5389. 148 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • F A L L 2 0 2 4 Activities and facilities abound at Bernardus, and most are available to guests of all ages, but the spa’s secluded adults-only warming pool offers a quiet respite in a serene setting away from the bustle of the main lodge. Photo: Hum Historical/Alamy Stock Photo Ben Pon was a motor racing champion, Olympian, vintner and so much more. Photos: Courtesy of Bernardus Lodge & Spa