On 265 oak-shaded acres surrounded by a well-established residential community, the resort's two-story, red-roof adobe buildings are complemented by bougainvillea-decked courtyards adorned with original art. Public areas are a collection of small sitting rooms where Spanish Mission-style sofas and chairs invite you to linger with a good book. There are fireplaces everywhere, overstuffed furniture, and Oriental rugs on tile floors. Ample rooms hold platform beds tucked into corner upholstered banquettes, all very streamlined. Great golf course or garden views are visible from private patios or balconies. Among the amenities are flat-screen TVs, iPod players bedside, and mini-bars. Suites also have fireplaces. A spa holds the ultimate treatment rooms: shuttered and heated garden casitas where you can relax under the sun to the tune of moving water. The resort also has one of the most popular golf courses in the San Diego area; the oak-studded and hilly Rancho Bernardo Resort Course has hosted both PGA and LPGA tournaments. Seasonal children's activities include science and sports instruction. Pros: Gorgeous flower-decked grounds, excellent service, spa. Cons: Walking required in spacious grounds, distance from most visitor attractions.
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