Introduction

Nestled in the sun-drenched hills of California’s Carmel Valley, the Bernardus Lodge & Spa is more than just a hotel—it’s a luxurious retreat designed to inspire a sense of calm and well-being. Far from the bustling coastline, this 28-acre estate is a world of its own, where the simple beauty of nature meets refined elegance. From the moment you arrive, you’ll discover a place where every detail is thoughtfully curated, from the enchanting rose gardens to the impeccable farm-to-table cuisine. In this review, we'll take you on a journey through this remarkable property, exploring the serene sanctuary of the Premier Garden Room, the extensive grounds and recreational amenities, and the culinary artistry that awaits at Lucia Restaurant & Bar.

Hotel Review | Video Walkthrough

If you’re interested in a video review of the hotel, I’ve also made a hotel review on my Youtube channel!

Hotel Grounds

The grounds of Bernardus Lodge & Spa are a key part of the guest experience, offering a meticulously designed blend of active recreation and serene relaxation. The website highlights a variety of amenities designed to cater to every mood, all set against the beautiful backdrop of Carmel Valley. Every detail, from the vibrant gardens to the expansive lawns, contributes to an atmosphere of effortless tranquility.

The lodge's commitment to its natural setting is most apparent in its beautiful and functional gardens. The Rose Garden is a standout feature, a breathtaking space with over 100 varieties of fragrant roses set against majestic oak trees. It serves as a picturesque location for events and a peaceful place for guests to wander. This garden is much more than just a beautiful sight; it creates a sensory experience with its intoxicating perfume. The Chef's Garden, a two-acre organic vegetable and herb garden, provides many of the fresh ingredients used in the on-site Lucia Restaurant, directly connecting the dining experience to the land. Between these two are expansive, well-maintained lawns that host classic resort activities. A sprawling 10,000-square-foot bocce lawn and a croquet lawn are popular spots for friendly competition, with the hotel providing all the necessary equipment.

Premier Garden Room (Room 41)

The Premier Garden Room at Bernardus Lodge & Spa is designed as a luxurious and restorative haven. According to the hotel's official website, these rooms offer an exquisite style that is both comfortable and elegant. They are part of the 73 guest rooms, suites, and villas on the property, each intended to be a private retreat for guests. We brought our dog with us, so we figured that the first floor design was probably better for us. Needless to say, this was such an awesome room.

Each Premier Garden Room comes equipped with an inviting fireplace, perfect for cozy evenings. Guests are also treated to a generous and complimentary butler's pantry upon arrival. This pantry is thoughtfully stocked with Bernardus wine, various beers, assorted beverages, and gourmet snacks - yes, eat away! A Nespresso Vertuo machine and a selection of teas are also included, providing all the makings for a perfect morning or afternoon in the room. Guests can also expect twice-daily housekeeping and nightly turndown service with a special amenity (Ours was a lovely lavender bubble bath kit that smelled so good). The room is further enhanced with plush bathrobes and slippers, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay.

The bathroom in the Premier Garden Room is a luxurious space that has heated floors, which is always a welcome addition. The website highlights that each guest room features a two-person soaking tub, providing a spa-like experience within the privacy of the room. The bathrooms also come with plush bathrobes and are stocked with luxury spa bath products that are locally made.

For those who wish to dine in the comfort of their room, the lodge offers in-room dining service. According to the website's dining section, room service is available daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. This allows guests to enjoy the same exquisite farm-to-table cuisine from Lucia Restaurant & Bar from their private space, whether it's for an early morning breakfast or a late-night snack. We really wanted to order a burger and some fries but got too comfy in our room that we just knocked out. Talk about such a comfy stay!

Amenities and Activities

Bernardus truly has everything you could need to relax and have fun. The main outdoor pool area is stunning, complete with comfy cabanas and a heated hot tub. For an extra dose of serenity, there's an adult-only infinity jacuzzi perched on a hilltop with incredible views. The Spa at Bernardus is an absolute must-do, with its tranquil warming pool, steam room, and sauna. The treatments use ingredients straight from their gardens—it's the ultimate farm-to-table wellness experience. And for when you're feeling energetic, the 24-hour fitness room and the two tennis courts are there to help you burn off all the delicious food you're about to eat.

Fitness and Wellness

For guests who want to stay active, the lodge provides a well-equipped 24-hour fitness room located conveniently next to the spa. It features state-of-the-art Precor cardiovascular and strength training equipment, including treadmills, a stationary bike, an elliptical machine, a weight lifting multi-station, and free weights ranging from 3 to 50 pounds. The commitment to wellness extends beyond the gym, with two well-maintained outdoor tennis courts nestled among lush trees, and a putting green for a casual round of golf. The resort also offers on-site fitness classes, such as yoga, to help guests find their center.

Pools and Jacuzzis

The resort offers multiple options for swimming and soaking, each providing a distinct atmosphere. The main outdoor heated lap pool and hot tub are open year-round, with complimentary poolside cabanas and lounge chairs available on a first-come, first-served basis. This area offers a lively, central gathering spot for guests. For a more secluded and tranquil experience, there is an adult-only infinity jacuzzi spa, which is also open 24 hours. The elevated location of this jacuzzi provides breathtaking, sweeping views of the surrounding hills and estate vineyards, making it a perfect spot for unwinding at the end of the day.

Food and Beverage

Lucia Restaurant & Bar is the heart of the Bernardus culinary experience, embodying a "farm-to-table" and "garden-to-glass" philosophy. The restaurant's design strikes a perfect balance between sophisticated chic and rustic elegance, with French oak floors, an open-concept layout, and a large fireplace made of stacked stone. The dining room features white leather club chairs and can be fully opened to a heated al fresco dining terrace, allowing guests to enjoy the beautiful valley views. The service is gracious and attentive, with a staff that strives to make every guest feel comfortable and welcome.

The menu is a testament to seasonality and homegrown ingredients, including fresh produce from the on-site organic gardens and honey and wine produced right on the estate. Executive Chef Christian Ojeda's creations blend old-world craft with new-world creativity, offering classic and contemporary dishes that change with the seasons. Notable dishes include a pan-seared king salmon with roasted asparagus and a prime beef tenderloin. For a truly unique experience, guests can reserve the exclusive five-seat Chef's Table, where a multi-course tasting menu is prepared right in front of them. The bar is equally impressive, with a selection of over 15,000 wine bottles curated by a sommelier, as well as a "garden-to-glass" cocktail program that uses fresh herbs and house-made infusions. The dress code is described as resort casual, though many guests choose to dress up for dinner.

The restaurant's hours of operation are designed to accommodate guests throughout the day:

Breakfast: Served daily from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Dinner: Available daily from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Brunch: Offered on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Room Service: Provided daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., allowing guests to enjoy the full culinary experience in the privacy of their room or suite.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the Bernardus Lodge & Spa provides an all-encompassing escape for those seeking a true blend of relaxation and engagement. It's a place where you can find serenity while wandering through the aromatic gardens, challenge a friend to a game of bocce on a sprawling lawn, or simply unwind in the tranquility of your private room. The commitment to a farm-to-table philosophy at Lucia Restaurant and the gracious, attentive service throughout the property ensure that your experience is both authentic and deeply personal. It's a destination that reminds you to slow down, savor the moment, and connect with the beauty that surrounds you.