Carmel Valley Ranch of Bernadus?
 

Hey there,

My husband and I are driving up the coast to San Fran in mid February. We are looking to stay in Carmel Valley for a night. I'm a big wine lover (sort of a cross between a wino and a wine connosieur) and Bernadus really attracted me. But it's about $140 more per night than the Carmel Valley Ranch. Any input? Is Bernadus worth it?

Thanks!

Mlongobard's wife

Bernardus is absolutely beautiful. Carmel Valley Ranch just finished a major transformation and they are amazing. It really depends on your personal taste. If you're looking at Bernardus for the wine, IMHO, their wine is not so great. Bernardus is more luxurious, though. You can't go wrong with either. Is it worth it to you to spend more? That's really your call.

We stayed at Carmel Valley Ranch last month and loved it! There is a fantastic restaurant there, Citronelle where we enjoyed dinner. Let me know if you have any specific questions regarding the rooms, service, etc. We stayed in a spacious suite, there is a $25/day resort fee here. Enjoy Carmel! ***kim*** ((l))

I cannot comment on Carmel Valley Ranch, but my nephew's wedding reception was at Bernardus Lodge last summer - what a fabulous place. For a special get-away, it is now on my wish list. For the wedding, we were cheapskates and stayed at a motel down the road.

You probably won't go wrong with either.

Kimamom: I am curious - you are alway visting fabulous places. What do you do for a living? Are you in the wine or tourism industry?

Thanks,

MY

Ok - booked Carmel Valley Ranch - it was about $120 cheaper. Bernadus was calling my name and I love luxury but then I felt silly spending that much more when the two seem pretty equal in many other ways. I'm looking forward to it!

mlongobard - call the concierge or go to opentable.com and make a reservation for Citronelle. They have a wine-pairing meal that will knock your socks off. Don't forget to visit the CV wineries. CV Ranch has two beautiful pools, a fabulous golf course and estate-like tennis courts. Have a great trip!

I hope you enjoy Carmel Valley Ranch, let us know how it goes. We were supposed to drive home after dinner the night we were there, we had just spent 2 nights at the Highland's. We loved the place so much, we spontaneously stayed an extra night at CVR. Loved the breakfast the next morning also by the glowing fireplace. We relaxed outside by the pool by the fire pits before our table was ready. I would love to spend a week here! ***kim*** ((l))