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Heading to bustling Carmel-by-the-Sea or the bucolic peace of Carmel Valley? Here are half a dozen options for where to stay during that romantic weekend away.
The Hideaway
This stylish boutique hotel underwent extensive renovations in 2016, transforming it from its former identity as the Cobblestone Inn and turning it into the chic Hideaway. The hotel’s 24 rooms kept their cottage charm and added sleek, modern amenities. And location-wise, you can’t beat it. It’s a short walk from The Hideaway to Carmel Beach and all the shops, restaurants and galleries of downtown Carmel. Take a peek inside.
Details: Rooms start at $230. Junipero Street at Eighth Avenue, Carmel; www.hideawaycarmel.com.
The Hotel Carmel
This recently revamped hotel — formerly known as the Dolphin Hotel — is big on breezy Carmel-By-The-Sea ambience. The 30 guest rooms and suites of this boutique hotel, the sister property of La Playa Carmel, are outfitted with beachy decor and coastal photography, and the courtyard garden offers Spanish tile, potted succulents, a hot tub and an outdoor fireplace. Take a look inside.
Details: Rooms start at $169. Fourth Avenue at San Carlos Street, Carmel; www.thehotelcarmel.com
La Playa Carmel
Experience old Carmel’s glory days at this historic hotel. The mansion, originally built in 1905 by artist Christian Jorgensen for his wife, a member of the Ghirardelli family, was inspired by Jorgensen’s love of Mission architecture, so you’ll find archways, vintage tile and stained glass in the grand common areas. The guest rooms are all about contemporary coastal style, creature comforts and beautiful views.
Details: Rooms start at $229. Camino Real at Eighth Avenue, Carmel; www.laplayahotel.com
Cypress Inn
This iconic 1929 hotel, co-owned by actor and animal rights activist Doris Day, is a national historic landmark. Stroll through the arched walkways of this Spanish colonial hotel and explore the glamorous interior with its in-room fireplaces and custom, wrought-iron bed frames. How pet-friendly is this place? They have a daily yappy hour.
Details: Rooms start at $255. Lincoln at Seventh Avenue, Carmel. www.cypress-inn.com.
Bernardus Lodge & Spa
Recent renovations have transformed Carmel Valley’s luxe, 28-acre Bernardus Lodge & Spa from wine-country grand to sophisticated California glam. Vineyards line the approach to the lodge, the grounds include croquet and bocce lawns, tennis courts, a pool and spa, and the hotel’s 73 guest rooms, suites and villas offer plenty of creature comforts, including soaking tubs and heated bathroom floors. Take a peek inside here.
Details: Rooms start at $295 for midweek dates in February, $595 for weekends, plus resort fee. 415 W. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley; www.bernarduslodge.com
Carmel Valley Ranch
This sprawling ridge-top resort, halfway between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Carmel Valley, offers a modern-day dude ranch experience with a decided California twist. You can start your morning with yoga, take classes, swim, hike or simply bliss out at the spa. The 500-acre property offers a variety of accommodation sizes and locations, some with valley views, others integrated into the natural surroundings.
Details: Rooms start at $320, plus resort fee. 1 Old Ranch Road, Carmel; www.carmelvalleyranch.com