Carmel Valley Ranch 1 Old Ranch Road • Carmel-by-the-Sea • CA 93923

As we drive through the gate of Carmel Valley Ranch, a black-tailed deer nonchalantly saunters in front of our car. It’s a perfect welcome to this exclusive country hideaway, whose nearly 500 acres of rolling foothills are a breathtaking embodiment of the valley’s timeless allure. Just beyond, the tawny Santa Lucia Mountains take on a rosy-mauve glow as the sun dips below the horizon. So careful were the designers to maintain ecological harmony that the resort buildings seem almost sculpted into the pastoral surroundings by Mother Nature herself. The golf course is accredited by the Audubon Society, and native wildlife wanders undisturbed throughout the grounds.

The Ranch’s fresh design puts a playful spin on Carmel’s signature style: The décor is a warm expression of natural textures and earth tones, punctuated by the occasional rich hue or contemporary pattern. An extra layer of luxe has been added, making this already impressive venue keenly desirable for any celebration.

Since we’re in the heart of Carmel Valley Wine Country, why not wed on the resort’s signature Vineyard Lawn—it’s bordered by acres of grapevines and enjoys views of the Santa Lucia Mountains and a lovely water feature. Ceremonies here are usually paired with a reception in the Lodge, perched high above the lawn. It’s home to a pair of sophisticated ballrooms: the Redwood Room hosts larger events, while the Oak Room is ideal for a smaller affair. Both spaces open onto a partially covered wraparound terrace featuring a tall stacked-stone fountain splashing water into a rectangular pool. Framed by oaks, it’s a refreshing place for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Another option for your social hour is to host it beneath an adjacent pavilion. And, for an exciting rehearsal dinner, invite your guests into the Lodge’s Adventure Kitchen for a live cooking demo.

The ranch’s Golf Clubhouse is also popular for weddings. Couples exchange vows on the nearby Valley Lawn against a backdrop of lush mountain and canyon views. Afterwards, dining and dancing follow in the Clubhouse, where an adjoining terrace provides a wonderful indoor-outdoor flow. Located close to the Clubhouse is the Organic Garden, a charming spot for an intimate al fresco dinner. Fragrant year-round with the scent of herbs, it’s surrounded by lavender fields and overlooks the Santa Lucia Mountains.

Tented and other outdoor reception areas are available, too, and wherever you celebrate on the property you’ll appreciate the staff’s personalized, unobtrusive service and expertise in organizing your destination event weekend.

After the festivities, savor some alone time in your spacious luxury suite; actually, ALL the accommodations are suites with cathedral ceilings, cozy fireplaces, and balconies for soaking up the valley vista. Though the rooms convey a soothing understated elegance, they include high-tech amenities.

If this isn’t enough pampering, the resort’s 10,000-square-foot Spa Aiyana offers an exhilarating menu of services and includes a salon (think nails, hair, and makeup!) as well as fireplace suites.