Issue link: http://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/819918
The Spanish hacienda-style guest suites range from 900 to 1,300 square feet in size, with furnished patios and, in some cases, outdoor Jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces. High ceilings and big windows lend an extra-spacious, airy feel to the interiors, where custom furnishings, fireplaces, hand-woven rugs and bold artwork outfit the rustic-chic living and dining areas. Details such as walk-in closets, oversized soaking tubs, glass-walled steam showers, double vanities and heated Toto toilet seats add to the spa-like experience in each casita. Groups and families can also book three-bedroom, three-bath villas equipped with French limestone floors, Viking kitchen appliances and full entertainment systems. These recently renovated accommo- dations offer exclusive use of the Owner's Clubhouse swimming pool and jetted spa tub, plus pre-arrival grocery shopping and staff services. For an even more private hideaway, the 5,000-square-foot Hacienda has three bedrooms, full kitchen and dining facilities, a private backyard garden and pool, and other upscale residential comforts. Regardless of room choice, amenities at Rancho Valencia go beyond the traditional. Through a partnership with Porsche of San Diego, for example, guests have complimentary access to a private Porsche fleet for up to four hours at a time—an interval ideal for taking a coastal cruise, grabbing lunch in La Jolla or shopping down in San Diego. The property offers com- plimentary valet parking and free Wi-Fi, as well as nightly turndown serv- ice along with morning newspapers and orange juice delivered to the room. Guest rooms are stocked with free snacks, coconut water, sodas and in-room Illy coffee and espresso, as well, and wellness sessions end with protein shakes and fresh-pressed juices. The resort greets children with special welcome bags packed with crayons and an activity book, plus cookies, milk and chocolate syrup. Surf lessons, horseback outings and guided hikes are on offer for young guests, and free bike rentals let the whole family explore on wheels. Families can check in with pups under 40 pounds, too. In addition to a plush dog- gie bed and treats, a dedicated dining menu outlines highbrow dishes for four-legged friends: think Shepherd's Pie, Rin Tin Tin Tartare, and the Barnyard Chase, crafted with grilled chicken, steamed rice and vegetables. Dining options for people include Pony Room, a casual bar and kitchen serving New American small plates. There's live music and open-air seat- 192 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 1 7 Courtyard fountains and colorful tiles play up the Mediterranean atmos- phere of the all-suite resort, which welcomes guests in 49 private casitas.