Carmel Chamber of Commerce News Newswire

A Weekend in Carmel

Thu, 16 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

LA Weekends: Carmel

By Justin Hook

We’ve done way too much traveling in California to have never driven down Highway 1–the famous winding coastal road that takes you down hundreds of miles of dramatic cliffs and stunning ocean views. It’s one way to get between LA and San Francisco, unfortunately it’s not a very fast way, and our weekend trips are always crunched for time. So this time, we planned a trip where Highway 1, and the scenery of Big Sur, would be a destination.

But Highway 1 would have to wait until the end, because Friday night, we had dinner reservations in downtown Carmel by the Sea, as the town is officially known, where we’d be staying for the weekend. We were a bit concerned when we looked up the address and got an intersection–like it didn’t have an address. As it turns out, nothing in Carmel has a street address. Just getting an intersection isn’t that helpful when you’re just trying to park, but on foot, it makes a lot more sense–Carmel is the kind of place you’re supposed to walk around and explore.

We quickly found our destination, the Mundaka, a tapas restaurant, despite the absence of a proper address. We entered to find a lively Friday-night atmosphere and a friendly, local waitstaff. Quickly after we ordered our first dishes, they were placed piping-hot on the table, along with a pitcher of the restaurant’s signature sangria.

We opened with some bacon-wrapped date that we really should have closed with because there was no way they could be topped. But everything else came close. We pressed on to an array of croquettes, meatballs and seafood–all fresh, organic, local, and delicious. If anything could best the appetizer, it’d be the desserts. Though seemingly basic–espresso poured over ice cream; salted-chocolate with toast–they both managed to be exponentially more than the sum of their parts. The latter especially has haunted our dreams ever since.

We stayed the weekend at the Hofsas House, one of the oldest and largest in Carmel. Conveniently located just a couple blocks from downtown, we found ourselves returning often between activities just so we could relax on the incredibly comfortable beds while letting the ocean breeze drift in through the top half of the room’s dutch door. At night, we closed the door and lit the wood-burning fireplace, and in the morning we had coffee and danishes with the hotel’s friendly owner. She told us how her grandmother first came to buy property and slowly built it over the years. She was happy to point out there is not a Holiday Inn to be found in Carmel–and we were happy to notice.

In fact, there is hardly a chain to be found in Carmel, and the few we did spot were cleverly disguised with wooden signs. This again added to the walking-city experience–we didn’t spend a second walking through fast-food parking lots or past blank supermarket facades.

Thank goodness, because our first activity on Saturday was the Carmel Food Tour, a walking–and eating–tour of some of Carmel’s best restaurants and shops. We were advised–at least, one of us was–not to wear heels, as there is a city ordinance forbidding them on sidewalks. Our tour guide showed us her permit to break this old rule. Carmel is a funny little place.

We started the tour at The Cheese Shop, where before the tour even started, the owner and staff were pushing free samples of fine cheeses on us. We were happy to accept. The way they talked about their many cheeses reminded us of wine country, but someone it feels less pretentious to talk cheese, even if this particular varietal was imported from a particular region of France and aged to perfection.

We then moved to the Cassanova Restaurant, which served an incredible gnocchi in the room where Vincent Van Gogh is said to have taken his last meals. Entering what looks like a small cabin, we emerged into a large and winding series of rooms and patios that make up the restaurant, each meticulously decorated to make it feel like you’re in another time and place, a million miles from Los Angeles.

Next we stopped by a deli, Salumeria Luca, where we sampled an array of salamis and other cured meats with a pairing of wine and a bit of gelato to finish it off. As lunchtime approached, the line at the counter sprawled–clearly this where the locals go to get their meats and we could see why.

We then stopped into a specialty olive oil store, The Bountiful Basket, where we tasted around a dozen oils and vinaigrette, including some store-made fruit-juice vinaigrette that would outshine anything you put them on–especially the cherry flavor. Note to everyone: more cherry everything.

Then we moved onto pizza at the casual La Bicyclette restaurant–another clear local favorite, with a line waiting out the door. We were greeted by the chef, who was excited to talk about his most-ordered item: the wood-fired pizza. We tried three different pizzas: prosciutto and arugula, mushroom, and cheese. Hard to say which one we would choose if we weant back–you can’t go wrong here.

The great thing about the food tour was that our guide, Staci, seemed much more interested in showing off the cool parts about her town than in pleasing some chamber of commerce. This was apparent especially in places like the Figge Cellars tasting room and art gallery, where the owner handed her the free glass of wine that comes with being a wine-club member. “I didn’t realize she was going to come here every day!” he joked.

We finished off the tour with some fancy chocolates and a nap back at the hotel.

That night we planned to have dinner in Monterey, so we arrived a little early to walk around and have a coffee at the Cafe Lumiere. When you walk in, it smells like there’s a movie theater concession stand just around the corner. Because there is. The cafe shares a space with a cool movie theater. But the cafe had fantastic coffee and lots of comfortable seating–this is definitely a place we’d spend a lot of time in if we lived in the area.

Soon we made the drive along the bay until we reached the Fandango Restaurant in Pacific Grove. Living in LA, we’ve grown partial to small restaurants with insanely small menus–restaurants that only sell grilled cheese or waffles or whathaveyou. Fandango, however, was a large space with a large menu. But our trepidation quickly faded. Everywhere we landed, we found something delicious, from the opening French Onion Soup to our sizable paella and steak entrees to the chocolate mousse dessert. Fandango is the kind of place you could take a date or your family or.. us. Someone, take us back!

Sunday morning we energized with some coffee and mini cinnamon rolls from the Carmel Coffee House, tucked into one of Carmel’s quiet, hidden courtyards, then headed off to the famous Cannery Row.

Our first stop was the Monterey Bay Aquarium. We headed straight for the sea otters when we arrived, just in time for a feeding. (The aquarium has a free service that will text you whenever feedings occur–highly recommended!) Some other incredible sights included a circular room where a school of fish swims around your head, and an enormous tank filled where sharks and sea turtles swim inches from your face. Also the jellyfish. And the penguins. Really, the whole thing is a highlight. See it, see it, see it.

We could hardly bare to leave, so when we did, we headed straight for the Cannery Row Brewing Company. They only have a couple of house brews, but the beer list is excellent, and they offer a large menu of bar food, which satisfied our large appetites. Of course, we saved a little room for the nearby candy store at the pier and some chocolate-covered bacon. Does this area have a thing for bacon or do we? Probably both.

Sadly, as our Sunday was drawing to a close, we had to get on the road. Thankfully, that road, finally, was Highway 1, where just south of Carmel by the Sea we encountered some of the most breathtaking scenery we have seen in our lives.

Our first stop was Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, where we hiked a short trail through the woods before ending up in a pristine bay with no trace of civilization in sight, unless you include the dozens of seals and their newborn babies. As we kept walking, we felt like we were in some sort of ocean-front Lord of the Rings scenery. Truly gorgeous.

We then continued the drive into Big Sur, where we aimed to hit Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park by sunset. We stopped a number of times along the road to look around and take pictures. Even when we spotted some ordinary cows along the road–against the backdrop of Big Sur, they look impossibly like wild horses. It’s just that kind of place.

Finally we made it. We stopped to walk along a trail, passing a cove and a waterfall, before reaching the bench where we watched the last of the light fade from Big Sur. Our weekend in Carmel thus came to a close, and we begun the long and windy drive back to LA, where we anxiously await our next weekend adventure.

This trip was made possible with the assistance of the Hofsas House. Many thanks to Carrie Theis, Marci Bracco, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Read Article on Restless Cities website.

Basil - first green restaurant - Monterey Bay

Fri, 10 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Basil wins first green restaurant certification in the Monterey Bay area

By Edible Monterey Bay

Chef/owner Soerke Peters and business partner Denis Boaro of Basil have a great reason to pop the cork on a domestic sparkler or two today. They just received word that Basil earned a coveted two-star certification from the Green Restaurant Association. After nearly a year of hard work and partnerships with vendors like Eco Carmel, Peters and Boaro have managed to document sustainable and eco-friendly practices required by the independent certification agency. Everything from food service to furnishings was examined, as well as water management and recycling.

“Green can mean a lot of different things to different people, but we are the only national standards organization that deals exclusively with the restaurant industry,” said CEO Michael Oshman of the Green Restaurant Association. “Consumers can be assured that a GRA certified restaurant meets objective standards that are verified by our specialized experts.”

Basil is the first restaurant in the Monterey Bay Area to be certified by the Green Restaurant Association, which counts about 500 certifications nationwide and 300 more in progress—two in Silicon Valley.

Boaro was elated that the months of hard work and investments in meeting the association’s tough standards have paid off. “I’m definitely excited, “ he exclaimed, “We just got certified and there’s more green stuff we’re going to do!”

In fact, that’s one of the requirements—the restaurant must not only maintain its initial efforts at sustainability, it must continually improve on them. Boaro is also hoping that other local restaurants will follow suit and brave the process, which he views as an investment in the health of the local environment.

The daunting 21 pages of certification standards require a restaurant to address everything from the duct sealing and weather stripping to the flow of water in the sinks. Food must also meet exacting standards both in terms of how it is grown/raised and how far it travels. Basil has gone the additional step of purchasing only domestic beer, to further reduce its carbon footprint.

Peters and Boaro are justifiably proud of their achievement and glad to be able to contribute to the health of the planet. Moreover, since Peters’ childhood in Germany, he’s always found that the best food comes when you buy fresh ingredients close to home and then don’t fool around with them too much. His menu, which boasts local calamari, abalone and seasonal vegetables, is not only sustainable, but delicious. With its charming courtyard setting, friendly service and great food, Basil is one of those great places where you can eat well and do good all at the same time.

Several dozen restaurants in Santa Cruz County and 19 restaurants in Monterey County, for example Passionfish, are certified by the Monterey Bay Area Green Business Program, but the Green Restaurant Association’s Oshman said that Basil is the only Monterey Bay Area restaurant to pursue national certification through his organization.

Read Article on Edible Monterey Bay website.

Relax, Carmel Valley Style

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Top Five Ways to Relax, Carmel Valley Style

By Dana Rebmann

It doesn’t matter whether you’re a hardcore beach lover or not, it’s hard to tear yourself away from scenic Carmel Beach. That usually leads to an afternoon or evening of wandering in Carmel-by-the-Sea. You can’t complain about that–but if you’re up for a relaxing change of pace, head to picturesque Carmel Valley.

Taste

Just a short drive from the coast, Carmel Valley has rolling, tree-covered hills, with vineyards and fields also a part of the mix. Wine tasting is quickly becoming a draw in these parts. Just head down East Carmel Valley Road, and you'll find plenty of choices. Stop at a favorite or try something new. At Holman Ranch’s tasting room, visitors can taste wine along with their estate grown and bottled olive oil. Cima Collina’s Howlin’ Good Red benefits the SPCA of Monterey County.

Take a Walk in the Fields

Along with growing veggies of every color, Earthbound Farm Organic has a flower garden that just might inspire you to get your hands dirty. The fresh cut display in front of the Farm Stand will get your attention, but be sure to wander out back and see all the colors bursting from the fields. The Walking Labyrinth is a fun place to stretch your legs, and kids of all ages love the teepee.

Play at the Ranch

When you pull up to the lobby at Carmel Valley Ranch, a set of beautiful tree swings will probably be the first thing you see. Don’t be shy, playing is encouraged here. Inside, check in and say hello to Roxy the English bulldog. Then comes the tough part… figuring out what to do next. Go for a guided hike, take a Hatha Yoga class, maybe even sleep in.

Salt of the Earth

If you were inspired by what you saw at Earthbound Farm, be sure to check out the organic garden tour with Farmer Mark. The garden brims with what he calls “art supplies” for Executive Chef Tim Wood. On the third Saturday of every month, there’s a get-your-hands-dirty gardening class. There’s also a salt house in the garden that produces salt for The Lodge Restaurant and Aiyana Spa, using water from the Monterey Bay.

Do your best to fit a Bee Experience into your schedule. It’s the real deal. Don a bee suit and learn about all the hard work Italian honey bees put into their sticky craft. Keep the sweet theme going after the sun sets with complimentary poolside s’mores at The Lodge.

Relaxation Playground

Make the blow of heading home a little lighter, by seeking Refuge. Based on European roots, it’s the only co-ed relaxation spa in the US. Heat up in the sauna or intense eucalyptus steam room, then cool down in a pool the temperature of the Pacific Ocean. If you’re truly committed to the cause, try a pool the temperature of an icy river. Next, relax in a zero-gravity recliner, or by one of many outdoor fire pits before jumping in a thermal waterfall pool. When you’re finished, do it over and over again. Three hours is the average recharging time, but you can stay as long as you want.

There are some rules you need to know about. Refuge is co-ed, so swimsuits are a must. No electronics and no talking. Bring a pair of flip flops or sandals to wear as you make your way from one spot to the next, and if budget allows, rent a cushy robe. It’ll make you feel good before you step out of the locker room.

Dana can be found on Twitter @drebmann

Dana’s trip was organized by the Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau, but as always her thoughts and opinions are her own.

Read Article on 7x7SF website.

Big Sur billed US’s Most Spectacular Drive

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Coasting in California

Big Sur gets billed as the US’s most spectacular drive - as well it should

By Josephine Matyas

There once was a young university student who thought a hastily planned bike tour along the coast of California would be just the ticket to ease the pain of a broken heart. Her touring 10-speed was folded neatly into a heavy-duty shipping box. Panniers were stuffed with camping equipment. Maps were almost an afterthought. Find San Francisco and head south, right? How hard could it be?

It turns out that topographical maps may have been a better choice. Watching too many surfing flicks tricked me into thinking the California coastline was nothing but kilometres of flat sand. The joke, as it turned out, was on me.

Thirty years later and that same student - older, wiser, with a rental car and armed with proper maps - tackled the hilly and luxuriously sinuous route that wiggles its way from San Francisco, through the trendy communities of Monterey and Carmel and into what is inarguably one of the continent’s most spectacular drives, Big Sur.

The Pacific Coast Highway, or California Route 1, is the stuff road-trip dreams are made of - a stretch of coastal blacktop that winds past stunning beaches, precipitous cliffs, picturesque towns and magnificent stands of old-growth forest. From “The City by the Bay,” the road meandered gently, tossing in a few hills for good measure, just teasers of what was yet to come. My calf muscles seemed to have a very long memory, and they remembered the challenge of three decades past. Rental car: good decision.

On Cannery Row

It was along this part of the coastal route that Spanish expeditions built missions and presidios to colonize the territory for Spain. Hispanic settlers soon followed and when Mexico asserted its independence, Monterey (seemonterey.com) was chosen as the region’s capital. The area was constantly in dispute and by the mid-1800s the territory became California, the 31st state in the nation.

These days, Monterey is known for historic Cannery Row, a wharfside collection of renovated warehouses that were once the boomtown of the lucrative sardine industry. At the end of the street is the world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium (886 Cannery Row, Monterey; montereybayaquarium.org), home to 35,000 sea creatures in more than 200 exhibits. Two-storey glass tanks hold forests of swaying kelp, startlingly-blue jellyfish and thousands of silver sardines, swirling in what appears to be a fish tornado. There are rockfish and leopard sharks, wolf eels and sluggish green sea cucumbers.

Just spitting distance inland from the city of Monterey are hectares of rich, productive farmland. “Monterey County is considered the salad bowl of the world,” the young farmhand at the roadside stand told me as he bagged my ridiculously cheap avocados and almost obscene haul of pistachios.

The Salinas Valley was immortalized in the novels of John Steinbeck, who captured the tales of migrant workers streaming in from Dust Bowl states to pick and pack the produce. And in this part of the country, they certainly haven’t forgotten Steinbeck.

My route took me into Salinas and the National Steinbeck Center (1 South Main Street, Salinas; steinbeck.org). Multimedia displays of film, archival letters and photos illustrate how Steinbeck was a very controversial author for his time. Even books like The Grapes of Wrath were criticized as “Red propaganda.”

Steinbeck rose above his critics and went on to win both the Pulitzer Prize and the Nobel Prize for Literature. Words he wrote half a century ago still ring true today: “Having too many things, they spend their hours and money on the couch, searching for a soul.”

Where the 1% escape

Naming the biggest claim to fame in Carmel-by-the-Sea (carmelcalifornia.com) is a toss up: former mayor Clint Eastwood, stylish and pricey shops and galleries, or the Pebble Beach Golf Links (700 17 Mile Drive, Del Monte Forest; pebblebeach.com/golf), one of the world’s most popular golf destinations, also home of the spectacular, cliff-hugging 17 Mile Drive.

The residents, who don’t bat an eye at multi-million dollar real estate, like to have things “just so,” which may explain some of the quirky bylaws: no neon signs, no hot dog stands, no street addresses on display and no high heels over two inches without a proper permit (apparently it is considered dangerous in a quaint “urban forest setting”).

The 2.5-square-kilometre seaside enclave has attracted celebrities and artists by the boatload for as long as anyone can recall. In the early days, it was notables like landscape photographer Ansel Adams, followed by Doris Day, John Denver, Brad Pitt and of course, Mr. Mayor, Clint Eastwood.

Wild things

For road trip junkies, the 145-kilometre stretch along the Big Sur coastline is a rite of passage. Designated a National Scenic Byway, there are no words to prepare for the heart-stirring moments around every seductive bend in the road. Dramatic seascapes appear with such regularity that after a while pulling over to photograph is abandoned in order to actually complete the drive in daylight hours.

The imprint of wilderness leaves a lump in my throat. The land along this coastline is home to some of the oldest trees on the planet — the giant Coast Redwoods — and in the water are sea otters, pods of migrating gray whales and colonies of elephant seals.

For artists, poets and counterculture types, the pull of Big Sur has been a magnet since the area was first settled in the 1870s. Electricity did not make it to this stretch until the 1950s (and some of the more outback locations are still without). The rustic setting — from the towering forests to the pounding Pacific surf — shouts absolute getaway, off-the-map, ultimate recharge. There are no grocery stores, no gas stations and no tacky souvenir shops. Whoever was behind the planning process got this one right.

The wild side starts just a stone’s throw from the boutiques of tony Carmel-by-the-Sea. Down the long laneway at the Point Lobos State Reserve (562 Route 1, Carmel; pointlobos.org), I bumped into what has been coined “the greatest meeting of land and water in the world:” a landscape produced millions of years ago and now respected and left largely undisturbed.

Rigorously protected, the trails, coves and sprawling headlands at Point Lobos are limited to a few hundred visitors at any one time. They tromp along the pebbled trails to lookouts like Sea Lion Point; binoculars at the ready to spot the misty spray of a massive gray whale or to watch the frolicking of the endangered southern sea otters, lying on their backs, bobbing in the foamy surf. Or just to marvel in wonder at the magnificence of nature.

Among giants

My own route continued south to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park (47555 Route 1, Big Sur; parks.ca.gov/?page_id=570), one of the best places I know to just amble along the hiking trails in a chapel of ancient redwoods. The soft, reddish bark of the towering Coast Redwood is up to a foot thick, deeply furrowed and impressively fire resistant. Stop all conversation, embrace the quiet, and the spirit of the wilderness is overpowering.

A little further south, I wondered how many travellers zip around the bend and blow right by the very funky Henry Miller Memorial Library (48603 Route 1, Big Sur; henrymiller.org). Miller, one of America’s most famous and controversial 20th-century authors, spent 18 years living in Big Sur and produced many of his works while calling the area home. The library is a non-profit arts centre and bookstore, advocating the free life and freedom of expression. Summertime events include art shows, theatre, lectures, book signings and live music.

The sun had set and I recalled the words of the late Big Sur resident. “It was here in Big Sur that I first learned to say ‘Amen,” ” wrote Miller. I realized my trip was over but, for a moment, I was tempted to turn the car around and drive it all again.

This article was accurate when it was published. Please confirm rates and details directly with the companies in question.

Read Article on the Doctor's Review website

Explore the Central Coast

Sat, 16 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

On a World-Class Road Trip

Walk redwood groves, drive Big Sur, and tour Hearst Castle on this Central Coast winner.

by Visit California

Trip length: 4 Days
Total distance: 269mi/431km

DAY 1
SANTA CRUZ. Pitch a tent beneath the pines and oaks in the campground at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Hike from the campground along the easy Eagle Creek Trail to reach the Redwood Grove Loop Trail and see The Giant—a magnificent tree that’s as tall as a 25-story building. INFO Santa Cruz County Conference and Visitors Council; 800/833-3494

SANTA CRUZ (6mi/9km; 16min). Whip around the curves on the landmark Giant Dipper Roller Coaster at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Or for a new generation of thrills, take a spin—quite literally—on Undertow, a roller coaster with rotating cars. Dine on classic seaside grub, including clam chowder bread bowls, at the boardwalk’s Surf City Grille. INFO Santa Cruz County Conference and Visitors Council; 800/833-3494

MOSS LANDING (27mi/44km; 40min). Stop at the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve visitor center to learn about this rich wetland environment and for guided weekend walks. Search for sea otters and harbor seals on naturalist-led tours with Elkhorn Slough Safari. Indulge in legendary cioppino at Phil’s Fish Marke. INFO Monterey County Convention and Visitors Bureau; 888/221-1010

DAY 2
MONTEREY (20mi/31km; 27min). Glimpse the undersea world where giant bluefin tuna and hammerhead sharks rule—all without getting wet—at Monterey Bay Aquarium. Stroll Cannery Row for a taste of Monterey’s fishing heyday, as well as with salt-water taffy and souvenirs. INFO Monterey County Convention and Visitors Bureau; 888/221-1010

CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA (6mi/10km; 17min). Make castles in the sand at Carmel City Beach, a dog-friendly stretch with crashing waves and views from Point Lobos to Pebble Beach. Plus bonfires are permitted south of 10th Avenue! Travel back to Carmel’s Spanish past at San Carlos Borroméo de Carmelo Mission. INFO Carmel Chamber of Commerce; 800/550-4333

BIG SUR (22mi/35km; 32min). Saddle up and ride from the redwoods to the beach at Andrew Molera State Park with Molera Horseback Tours . INFO Big Sur Chamber of Commerce; 831/667-2100

BIG SUR (7mi/11km; 10min). Thanks to blueberry scones, sandwiches made with wood-fired breads, and inventive pizza combinations, you could eat all three meals of the day at Big Sur Bakery. Work it off at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park for views of iconic McWay Falls tumbling to the beach below. INFO Big Sur Chamber of Commerce; 831/667-2100

DAY 3
SAN SIMEON (67mi/107km; 1hr32min). No matter how many times you visit, Hearst Castle will amaze. For a different view, visit the castle after dark on Evening Museum Tours in spring and fall. Along the coast here, watch massive elephant seals battle for territory and care for pups at Piedras Blancas rookery . INFO San Luis Obispo County Visitors & Conference Bureau; 805/541-8000

MORRO BAY (34mi/55km; 48min). See wildlife and take in awesome views of landmark Morro Rock on a guided paddle with Kayak Horizons. Savor wild-caught seafood from local fishermen at The Galley. INFO Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce; 800/231-0592

SAN LUIS OBISPO (14mi/23km; 19min). Look for gifts in downtown boutiques and galleries, then give the kids a history lesson at Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. Dine creekside on the patio at pretty Novo Restaurant Lounge. INFO San Luis Obispo Visitors & Conference Bureau; 805/541-8000

DAY 4
SOLVANG (66mi/106km; 1hr4min). Rent a mountain or road bike from Wheel Fun Rentals and follow a scenic cycling route through Santa Ynez Valley. Refuel after the ride with tasty Danish treats at countless bakeries, or dig into creative comfort foods at Succulent Café & Trading Company. INFO Solvang Conference & Visitors Bureau; 805/688-6144

Read Article on the Visit California website.

Kids And Dogs Welcome

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Getaway Guide: Kids And Dogs Welcome At Carmel-By-The-Sea

by Liz Laing

Carmel-by-the-Sea, often referred to as simply Carmel, sits gracefully on the Monterey Peninsula, known for its natural beauty and artistic history. Today, it attracts artists and tourists alike, with its world-class galleries, high-end boutiques, specialty shops and fine restaurants. Add a few hidden courtyards and storybook architecture and this enchanting town will steal your heart (and your pocketbook, if you’re not careful!). Don’t worry; you’ll discover plenty of free activities in the area as well. Nature lovers will enjoy walking among the cypress groves at Point Lobos State Reserve for a stunning view of the central coastline.

Even though Carmel is a sophisticated town that appeals to adults, kids will enjoy it too. If the day starts to bore your wee ones, take a rest at the children’s library, eat gelato, make sand castles on the beach, visit Thinker Toys, search for the Hansel & Gretel cottages or collect their (your) favorite candy at Cottage of Sweets. The town itself is only one-square mile, so you can walk just about everywhere.

Getting There

Hit the road and drive up the 101 North for about five hours and then take CA-68 west towards Monterey. Carmel is only about 10 minutes from Monterey and is also accessible via Amtrak’s Coast Starlight train.

Where to Stay

The Vagabond’s House

4th & Dolores
Carmel, CA 93921
(831) 624-7738
www.vagabondshouseinn.com

The Vagabond’s House is one of my all-time favorite bed and breakfasts, reminiscent of an English Tudor Country Inn. Built in the late 1920’s, the cozy inn, which was named after a best-selling poem by Don Blanding, was originally designed as an artists’ retreat. Today, it remains a special and inspiring place.

Each evening between 4 and 6 p.m., guests can partake in complimentary wine and cheese in the lobby and courtyard and chat with the friendly innkeeper, who gives great suggestions. Many of the guest cottages have fireplaces (and kitchens), so you can get toasty by the fire while sipping sherry provided in each room. You’ll become so comfy and relaxed you won’t want to leave.

To help ease you into the day, a lovely extended continental breakfast is delivered to your room. Another plus, the Vagabond’s House is very pet-friendly. Your pet can stay with you for an extra $30/day, so you don’t have to leave Fido at home.

Pine Inn

Ocean Avenue & Monte Verde Street
Carmel, CA 93923
(800) 228-3851
www.pineinn.com

The Pine Inn was the first hotel built in Carmel-by-the-Sea in 1889 and was originally located four blocks up the street. As the town grew, they decided to relocate a bit and rolled the main building along pine logs, down a dirt road to where it resides today in the heart of town on Ocean Avenue.

A complimentary full American breakfast buffet is served Monday through Friday. On weekends you can purchase breakfast downstairs at Il Fornaio or grab a latte and a morning pastry to go.

Another great option for lodging is La Playa Carmel, a historic luxury boutique hotel, just two blocks from the beach. Their signature gourmet breakfast buffet is excellent and included in the room rate. A dazzling display of fresh fruits, pastries, breads and cheeses, homemade granola and cereals, hot entrees, omelets and waffles are offered, not to mention fresh-squeezed juices and champagne (think endless mimosas!).

What To Do

Carmel Walks

Lincoln & Ocean Avenue
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921
www.carmelwalks.com

A great way to get an overview of Carmel-by-the-Sea and learn about its fascinating history is to go on a walking tour with Carmel Walks. Tour Guide, Gael Gallagher, will take you on a leisurely two-hour walk through secret pathways, hidden courtyards and fairytale cottages. You’ll learn about the local lore and favorite haunts of famous artists, writers and more.

Along our tour, we visited the Hog’s Breath Inn, formerly owned by the famous Clint Eastwood, who served as Carmel’s mayor from 1986 to 1988. During his campaign, Clint promised to overturn one of the town’s unusual laws, which prohibited the selling and eating of ice cream on public streets. Thank goodness Clint showed them how to “make my day” and let the people have their frozen treats. And thank goodness for Salumeria Luca, which has the best gelato ever (including Italy, IMHO).

After the tour, grab lunch at the Cypress Inn (Lincoln & 7th Avenue), co-owned by Doris Day, and watch the old movies she starred in while eating crab cakes, burgers or Doris’ favorite chicken salad.

Carmel Beach

Ocean Ave and Scenic Rd
Carmel, CA 93921
www.seemonterey.com

Carmel Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in California, with a clean and pristine sandy beach, a backdrop of cypress trees and scenic bluffs that make it postcard perfect.

Ideally located at the end of Ocean Avenue and an easy walk from town (though it’s an uphill walk back to town!), the beach is known for good surfing and is very dog friendly (dogs can run around off-leash). I had to practically drag my kids away, as they were totally content digging in the sand, splashing in the water and playing tug-of-war with a pile of seaweed on shore.

After sunset, you can make a bonfire, but it must be put out by 10 p.m. You can even pick up a bonfire kit nearby at the Lamplighter Inn & Suites.

Point Lobos State Reserve

Highway 1
CA 93920
(831) 624.4909
www.parks.ca.gov

Point Lobos State Reserve, named after the sound of the sea lions from the offshore rocks (Point of the Sea Wolves), has often been called “the crown jewel of the State Park System.” The area has spectacular views of the shoreline, trails that lead to hidden coves, headlands and rolling windows. Visitors often spot seals, sea lions, sea otters and migrating gray whales (December through May).
One of the most scenic trails is the Cypress Grove Trail, a 0.75-mile loop, that winds through one of the only two cypress groves remaining on Earth and offers tree-framed views of Carmel Bay and the Monterey peninsula. The trail winds through The Pinnacle, the northernmost point in the reserve, which can be extremely windy. The wind-sculpted trunks and foliage give the cypress their fantastic shapes.

You’ll notice an orange-colored “velvet” growing on the north-facing tress and rocks, which are actually green algae. The orange color comes from carotene (like carrots) and doesn’t harm the trees, but makes stunning photos, as it contrasts with pockets of turquoise water below.
Directions to the trailhead: Point Lobos State Reserve is located three miles south of Carmel just off Highway 1. Both Cypress Grove Trail and North Shore Trail depart from the northwest end of Cypress Grove parking area.

Earthbound Farm

7250 Carmel Valley Road
Carmel Valley, CA 93921
(831) 625-6219
www.earthboundfarm.com

A stop at Earthbound Farm’s Organic Farm Stand is a great opportunity to teach kids where their food comes from and to grab a healthy and satisfying lunch. For more than 25 years, Earthbound Farm has been committed to organic farming (which is healthier for our bodies and friendlier to the environment) and is now the country’s largest grower of organic produce.
All the food in their café and store is prepared with certified organic ingredients, including fresh soups, a salad bar, baked treats and frozen yogurt/ice cream. The dishes we tried were all fresh, seasonal, healthy and delicious.
After lunch, kids will enjoy exploring the alphabet garden (each plant begins with a letter of the alphabet) and the walking through the labyrinth. The farm stand is open year-round and is just 3.5 miles east of Highway 1.

Where To Eat

PortaBella

Ocean Avenue between Lincoln and Monte Verde
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA, 93921
www.carmelsbest.com

PortaBella specializes in Mediterranean cuisine and features dishes from France, Italy and Spain. The food at PortaBella is excellent and the service is impeccable.

Begin your meal with the warm wild mushroom napoleon (a stack of deliciousness) or a bowl of the ever-popular roasted corn and crab bisque, followed by a salad of baby spinach, red grapefruit, apples and spiced pecans, tossed in a red onion vinaigrette. Entrees include local dishes, like the Monterey Bay sand dabs with lemon capers, seasonal vegetables and mashed potatoes and European classics like Coq au Vin, a chicken breast with applewood bacon and cippollini onions in a Pinot Noir sauce. Even the bread is delicious, crunchy on the outside and soft and buttery on the inside.

Finish off your meal with a warm apple tart, topped with roasted almonds, ginger caramel sauce and vanilla bean ice cream.
Dogs are welcome at PortaBella and will also receive great service with their own bowl of water, served on a plate with a linen napkin!

Flaherty’s Seafood Grill

6th Avenue & Dolores
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921
(831) 601.8444
www.flahertysseafood.com

A local favorite since 1975, Flaherty’s Seafood Grill specializes in fresh fish (mostly caught wild) of the highest quality and has been practicing sustainability for more than 30 years. The atmosphere at Flaherty’s is family-friendly, casual and comfortable.

The choices on the menu seem to be endless. Start with a sourdough bread bowl of their famous clam chowder, a fire-roasted artichoke or baked brie with roasted garlic. Maybe a classic dish of oysters Rockefeller or their signature crab cakes with a corn and black bean citrus relish will entice you. Entrees include a wild halibut encrusted with cashew nuts, served with wild mushrooms and a basil-cream sauce. Vegetarians will enjoy the fire-roasted polenta with seasonal, local and organic vegetables.

Kids will be entertained watching all the colorful reef fish swimming about in the large saltwater aquarium.

For dessert, we couldn’t resist one more trip for gelato at Salumeria Luca, which is also a great place to stock up on picnic goods as you explore the surrounding area or buy some gourmet gifts to take home and remember your trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Liz Laing is a writer, web designer and photographer who lives in Los Angeles. Her latest projects may be followed on Liz Laing.

Read Article on the CBS Los Angeles website.

Carmel Food Tours Review

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

A Good And Tasty Walk Enhanced Not Spoiled

Top Restaurants, Cheese, Wine And Chocolate Part Of Recommended Town Tour

By surfsidesam

In an area of several golf courses, an activity that John Feinstein wrote is “a good walk spoiled,” the Carmel Food Tours is a good walk enhanced.

In fact, before walking around the European-style streets of beautiful Carmel, CA, on your own, I recommend taking a stroll with Carmel Food Tours. Not only does it provide a culinary excursion but it includes a peek into the city’s history and goes through hidden little passageways, making it Carmel’s version of those hop-on/hop-off sightseeing buses popular in major tourism cities.

Except it’s all on foot.

The three-hour tour covers seven stops: Two restaurants, the delectable Cheese Shop, an olive oil tasting store, a chocolate shop, a deli that pours a bottle of wine with a wide selection of meats, and one of the town’s many wine tasting rooms.

That variety provides a true taste of Carmel and it’s done at a leisurely pace that allows plenty time to savor and, in many cases, also to salivate.

The tour is given by Staci Giovino – a last name that ends in “vino” is a perfect fit for Carmel – who moved to the city from Denver when her husband received a job transfer. The stops are the favorite places she discovered while getting to know the town and she decided it would be good to share her knowledge with visitors.

Or even area locals who maybe only know Carmel at its surface. In that, I can relate because I’ve been to Carmel a couple dozen times but had never taken the time to really get to know it.

The two restaurants are outstanding choices.

One is Le Bicyclette, the most popular place for lunch in Carmel. It’s a French bistro that bakes its own bread and has a wood-fired brick pizza and bread oven. As others are waiting outside as part of the busy lunchtime crowd, those on the Carmel Food Tours are ushered into a private section in the back where the chef comes out and explains the delicious pizzas he puts down on the table. I recommend not chewing the pizza; just take a bite and it will dissolve in the mouth. This will cause the eyes to close, your head will lean back involuntarily and your voice will blurt out “de-LICI-ous!”

The other restaurant is Casanova, and it’s appropriately named because gentlemen who take a lady there will indeed feel like a casanova. It’s often called Carmel’s most romantic restaurant. On the tour, as soon as one gets adjusted to the adorable small cottage atmosphere, they bring out gnocchi smothered in a sauce so delicious I would marry the owner’s daughter just to be able to have it the rest of my life. The cuisine is Northern Italian and its wine cellar holds 30,000 bottles (the count during our visit was around 24,000).

Casanova is the tour’s second stop and it comes on the heels of The Cheese Shop. You could put me in a cheese shop and leave me there the better part of an afternoon, especially this one. Were I on a limitless budget and waistline, I would eat my way from one end to the other. On the tour, I settled for a selection of three cheeses, all accompanied by cheesey jokes by the guy cutting the cheese (how’s that for a cheesy cheese joke!?)

The first taste of wine comes before noon – hey, when it comes to wine in the Monterey Peninsula, it’s always 5 o’clock somewhere – at Salumeria Luca, an Italian deli. They bring out a bottle and pair it with slices of Italian meats, many of which I can’t pronounce, let alone explain. But no worries, because they do both at the deli.

The Bountiful Basket pours four samples of olive oil and four of vinegar to taste with bread.

Then after the biggest food stop – La Bicyclette – it’s onto a wine tasting room!

This is either Figge, which is in the front section of one of Carmel’s many upscale art shops, or Caraccioli Cellars, which specializes in sparkling wines. Both are part of the Carmel Wine Walk, by the way.

The final stop is Lula’s Chocolates, which are made locally. I don’t eat sweets so can’t personally vouch for it, but while we were there the FedEx delivery guy came in to buy a bag. That seems like a pretty good endorsement.

By the end you are, as Staci says at the start, full enough to be satisfied but not stuffed. It’s the perfect amount of delicious food. Think of this as taking a three-hour lunch, except instead of trying a variety of appetizers at a single restaurant, you are doing it at several places. With an expert guide leading the way.

A bonus is that Staci also provides a bit of history of Carmel and talks about a few of its odd laws (there are no street addresses and anything more than 2-inch heels are illegal although you can get a permit from City Hall).

And because she knows the town and its many nooks and crannies so well, she has you going through little alleys that are all but hidden between the shops and restaurants. This can get even Carmel veterans turned around, but once you walk around the village on your own a couple more times you’ll realize how much the tour helped to orientate you to everything.

The price of the tour is $69 and keep an eye out for $10 discounts at various locations in town. You must make reservations in advance because Staci sets up the amounts with the restaurants so guests walk in and are served the proper portions.

Groups are limited to about a dozen people, so the tours are intimate as well as entertaining and informative.

Website: www.carmelfoodtour.com

Phone: (800) 979-3370.

Read Article on Surf Side Sam website.

Eat Your Way Through Carmel

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Eat Your Way Through Carmel By Dana Rebmann

Carmel has always been a popular weekend destination. But the list of what to do when you arrive is growing. Some love shopping along Ocean Avenue at names like Coach, Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co., others hit the beach with their dog. Good food is cool and these days, eating your way through Carmel is a delicious way to spend a weekend getaway.

One of the best things about eating in Carmel is that you have lots of options. From tastes to plates to three hour sit-down meals, there’s something for every palate and budget.

Farmers’ Markets are big in Monterey County, with one going strong almost every day of the week, depending on the time of year. Even in the dead of winter the folks at Earthbound Farm grow organically on more than fifty three thousand acres. That means there’s always something fabulous to snack on at their Farm Stand in Carmel Valley.

Trió Carmel takes olive oil and balsamic vinegar tasting to a new high. The store/art gallery carries extra virgin olive oils from around the world, and balsamic vinegars in flavors you never knew existed. Try the Cinnamon Pear Balsamic. Tasting is complimentary. Across the street, Salumeria Luca Italian Deli & Bakery, might remind you a little of Molinari’s, when it was shiny and new. Grab a sandwich and you can have a picnic in neighboring Piccadilly Park.

La Bicyclette has the look, feel, and energy level of a Parisian café. Go for a morning walk or run and the assorted wood fired breads set out to cool will ensure your return. The menu changes daily, but you can’t go wrong with a thin-crust pizza. If a quick burger sounds good, 400° Gourmet Burgers and Fries offers traditional varieties, along with turkey, veggie, Portobello and Albacore options.

Make it a date and an affair to remember at Zagat rated Aubergine. Create a personalized menu from a variety of dishes on the four-course menu or let the chef do his thing and surprise you with each plate on the chef’s tasting menu. Along with incredible flavors and beautiful presentations, expect to see the chef have some artistic culinary fun.

If you’d like more guidance eating your way through Carmel, a walking tour with Carmel Food Tours is a nice way to get a little taste of this and a little taste of that, in about three hours. With tour chief Staci Giovino at the helm you’ll nosh at The Cheese Shop, taste gnocchi in an amazing parmesan cream sauce at Casanova (take her advice and bring any leftover bread from the Cheese Shop to sop up the sauce), sip some local wine, and indulge your sweet tooth at Lula’s Chocolates. She also hits a few of my favorites from above. Think of it as lunch in motion.

If all that eating makes you feel like a nap, check-in at La Playa Carmel, and postpone the diet yet another day so you can enjoy their complimentary Champagne Brunch Buffet, complete with ocean view.

Dana can be found on Twitter @drebmann

Dana’s trip was organized by the Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau, but as always her thoughts and opinions are her own.

Read Article on the 7x7SF Website.

Sip in Monterey Wine Country

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT

So Many Places to Sip in Monterey Wine Country, So Little Time

By Dana Rebmann

Monterey County may be best known for its scenic coast, famous aquarium and star-studded links, but 'wine destination' is fighting for a well-deserved spot in the ranks. With more than forty thousand acres of vineyards, the California growing region is second only to Sonoma County in size. Need more convincing? Wine Enthusiast recently named Monterey County a 2013 Top Ten Wine Travel Destination in the World. It was the only California wine region to make their 2013 list.

Though there’s plenty to see and sip, the layout of Monterey Country’s Wine Country actually makes tasting without a lot a driving pretty easy. Wine Country is essentially divided into three sections: The East End Wine Row, the Carmel-by-the-Sea Wine Walk, and the River Road Wine Trail.

Wine Walk

Walking is a perfect way to explore Carmel-by-the-Sea’s wine side. Compact and mostly flat, the area lends itself to strolling, whether it’s from store to store, or now that there are more than a dozen to choose from, tasting room to tasting room. Trió Carmel serves local wines, with stories that go beyond what’s in the bottle. Le P’tit Payson winemaker Ian Brand uses the label to poke fun at his dad, immortalizing him as a comedic elderly gentleman who’s known to don a pink tutu when the Rosé mood strikes. His choice of apparel on the 2011 Viognier bottle will make you chuckle too.

Caraccioli Cellars is a nice change of pace, offering two sparkling wines along with Chardonnay and Pinot Noirs. Figge, Manzoni Cellars, Galante and Scheid Vineyards are other sipping and strolling options. If you’re planning to hit tasting rooms with gusto, buying a Wine Walk Passport might save you some cash.

East End Wine Row

There’s plenty to love about Carmel-by-the-Sea but save time to wander Carmel Valley. Grab lunch at the Farm Stand at Earthbound Farm.

Head down East Carmel Valley Road and wineries will start popping up left and right. If you’re looking to park the car, you can catch a ride with Pete, former pilot and cowboy turned tractor transport for tourists. He takes folks pretty much anywhere they want, including the East End Wine Row where seven tasting rooms and a taqueria have set up shop. It’s tough for a winery’s personality to shine through at an off-site tasting room, but the folks at East End have done a good job. Joyce Vineyards is sleek and modern with metal display work handcrafted by young winemaker Russell Joyce. Chesebro Wines tasting room is bright and airy, showcasing art from the Central Coast. Parsonage Winery focuses on family with a collection of wines named after the grandkids.

River Road Wine Trail

Of Monterey’s three Wine Country areas, the River Road Wine Trail is the most off the beaten path, but worth the time behind the wheel. Some of the names you’ll recognize, while others will be unfamiliar. Don’t be afraid to taste something new as you make your way through a mix of vineyards and farms fields planted with lettuce and broccoli. Paraiso is bright and inviting with a fun vibe. There’s the large map for visitors to pin the place they call home and the chalkboard bathroom walls encourage creativity. Just a couple minutes up the road, Hahn Family Wines offers ATV Adventures through their vineyards and estate.

Wineries like Wrath, Ventana and Talbott Vineyards are just a few more of the dozen plus wineries in the area to sip from.

Dana can be found on Twitter @drebmann

Dana’s trip was organized by the Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau, but as always, her thoughts and opinions are her own.

Read Article on the 7x7SF website.

Coast Hopping

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Coast Hopping North to South

By Dana Rebmann

When you’re making the trip south in your car, you essentially have two choices: The quicker route on Highway 5, or the slower-moving Highway 1 or 101 trek down the coast. When you’re talking about hours behind the wheel, quick has the advantage, but the scenery along the 5 isn’t what I’d call inspiring. If you can find the extra couple of hours, go the long way, and there’s a good chance you’ll actually enjoy the ride.

When you leave the city, there’s plenty to see and plenty of places to stop to stretch your legs the first few hours. Here are our picks:

Half Moon Bay

So close to home you might not be ready to stop, so just take in the ocean views. Keep an eye out for surfers and boats. If you’re hungry, grab a bowl of clam chowder from Sam’s Chowder House. You can even grab some salt water taffy from the restaurant gift shop if you need sugary road food.

Pescadero

If you didn’t stop in Half Moon Bay, Pescadero is your next best bet. You have to turn off the coast to reach the charming downtown, but it’s small enough to stretch your legs and be back in the car in record time. And though tiny, there are good options to grab some grub, ranging from sandwiches at Arcangeli Grocery Co., cream of artichoke soup at Duarte’s Tavern or a quesadilla at Taqueria De Amigos, the Mexican restaurant that shares space with the corner gas station.

Santa Cruz

So many choices, so little time. The Beach Boardwalk, the Santa Cruz Wharf, popular surfing stop Steamer Lane or Lighthouse Field State Beach. My advice, park on the Wharf and on a clear day, you’ll have views of them all. If the thought of getting back in the car just doesn’t sit right, settle in for the night at Hotel Paradox.

Carmel

It doesn’t matter whether the sun is shining, or the fog has rolled in, dog-friendly Carmel Beach is always worthy of a stop. Combine it with a taste of one of Caraccioli Cellars' sparkling wines and you’ll either be ready to hit the road for Santa Barbara or be more inclined to take a nap at Carmel Country Inn.

Santa Barbara

Grab a sandwich at Norton’s Pastrami and Deli then do some window shopping on State Street. Santa Barbara’s Downtown-Waterfront Shuttle will take you to Stearns Wharf for just 50¢. The rooftop pool at the Canary boutique hotel is a perfect perch.

Ventura

Lesser known Ventura has beaches, a fun, quirky downtown and serves as the perfect launching point for the Channel Islands National Park. And for a little Hollywood hook–it’s also the birthplace of lawyer and crime-solving extraordinaire Perry Mason.

Malibu

It’s hard to drive through Malibu and not put your toes in the sand. Zuma Beach is a popular stopping point for locals and visitors.

Santa Monica

Located on five acres of oceanfront property, the Annenberg Community Beach House is a must visit in Santa Monica. A pool with a view, kid’s play equipment and classes that cover everything from synchronized swimming to yoga, you’ll spend all day at the beach and still not do everything. The always popular Santa Monica Pier is just a short drive down the road.

Any new favorites? Visit them again on the way home.

Dana can be found on Twitter @drebmann

Read Article on the 7x7SF website

Escape this Valentine’s Day

Sun, 10 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Escape to Monterey County, California This Valentine’s Day Weekend

By Susan Dusterhoft

Need to escape the winter doldrums and find a weekend getaway for the Valentine's Day long holiday weekend? Skip the wine country north of San Francisco and escape to Monterey County, California. Pack a picnic basket and find a secluded beach to watch the spectacular sunsets along the beautiful coast of Big Sur, enjoy a romantic dinner cruise on Monterey Bay, or discover why wine and chocolate pair so well together. Choose Monterey County and find out why it really is a lover's paradise.

Wine and Dine Your Sweetheart:

Get your wine tasting groove on with the Carmel Wine Walk by-the-Sea Wine Tasting Passport. Take a self-paced and self-guided stroll to seven tasting rooms and taste some fabulous wines at Galante Vineyards, Scheid Vineyards, and five others located on the south side of Ocean Avenue. Ask for dinner recommendations and purchase a bottle of wine along the Carmel Wine Walk by-the-Sea and corkage will be waived at participating restaurants for one bottle per visit, per party. Passports are $50 each and include one $10 flight at each of the seven tasting rooms. Use the Passport in a single day or spread the visits out over the long weekend, or even several trips to the area. See here for more details.

Join McIntyre Vineyards Tasting Studios at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa for a special "liquid love match" to celebrate St. Valentine's Day. From Saturday, Feb. 9^th through Sunday, Feb. 17^th, enjoy some sparkling wine, Pinot Noir and Merlot paired with a chocolate covered strawberry for just $5 per person. Forgot to get your honey a gift, be sure to visit the McIntyre Tasting Studio in the Lobby Gift Shop. McIntyre has got you covered with a number of gift packages all designed to keep you out of the doghouse and put a smile on her face. Tastings daily from 9am to 6pm. Visit the website for more information.

Spend Saturday afternoon, Feb 16^th from 11:00am - 2:00pm at the Bernardus Lodge in the beautiful Carmel Valley creating custom handmade chocolate. Afterwards, sit and enjoy some delicious champagnes and learn all about their styles and blends. End the experience with an amazing romantic meal featuring Chef Cal Stamenov's grand wine country buffet featuring local seafood, natural prime beef, grilled organic vegetables and the most sublime desserts ever tasted. Sip some new release Bernardus wines, listen to some live acoustical music and experience the bliss of a true couples retreat! $95 per person, inclusive of tax & gratuity. See here for more details. Be sure to check out their luxury accommodations and spa too!

Rest and Relax:

Rediscover romance in Carmel by-the-Sea with a number of romantic packages designed to help you reconnect with your love. The Carmel innkeepers have worked tirelessly to design the perfect ambiance to help you relax and recharge. Choose from a boutique hotel, a quiet country inn or an affordable Carmel luxury lodge. See here for more details and valuable coupons.

Remember that winter nights on the coast are made for snuggling. Monterey County has some of the best accommodations that include fireplaces with a view. Whether it's just for the scenery or to people watch, there are several inns with picture perfect windows to cuddle, have a glass of wine and share a view for two. Feeling a little hungry? Have dinner and a glass of wine with your love at one of the many restaurants with fireside tables. For more details, click here.

Explore and Discover:

For the outdoor romantics, hop into a kayak and glide along the bay with your partner on a two-hour guided tour with Adventure's by the Sea. Look for harbor seals, otters and sea lions along with a myriad of migratory water fowl. Departure points include Cannery Row, Breakwater Cove, Stillwater Cove and Lovers Point. Advance purchase information here.

Sunsets at the coast are made to be enjoyed on the water. Take a private dinner cruise for two with Monterey Bail Sailing. Sit back and relax with a four course meal featuring local fresh fish, wines and dessert all while watching the stunning scenery along the coastline from Cannery Row to Point Pinos. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the most amazing memories with your romantic partner. Other cruise options are available so see here for details and to make reservations.

Can't get enough of the deep blue sea? Then head on over to the Monterey Bay Aquarium with your main squeeze and check out all the new things to see and do. Spend the entire day and experience the many shows and activities. Take a personal guided tour and get an insider's view of the Aquarium. Don't have enough time for a full day? Then plan a return trip to share a Romance Tour with the one you love. This is a one-in-a-lifetime opportunity that requires advance reservations. See here for contact information.

Relax and unwind this Valentine's Day holiday weekend. Take a walk on one of the many unspoiled sandy beaches, enjoy a glass a wine in front of a roaring fire and spend some quality time with the one you love. Do this and more while making some beautiful memories knowing that you discovered lover's paradise in Monterey County, California.

Read Article on Yahoo! Voices.

Dog-Friendly Carmel

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Sip and Stroll through Dog-Friendly Carmel

By Dana Rebmann

When you arrive somewhere late at night, you never quite know what it’s going to look like when the sun comes up. In Carmel-by-the-Sea, what’s waiting in the dark is worth getting up early for.

Carmel Beach

At the foot of Ocean Avenue, down the boutique- and restaurant-lined sidewalk, is Carmel Beach. Loved by surfers, kids, and especially dogs, the view never disappoints. There’s some parking by the beach, but the walk down Ocean Avenue is fun. Some houses have names, but none have numbers. Folks pick up their mail at the post office. The walk back up is a bit steep, but will make you feel less guilty about indulging later in the day.

With 100-plus galleries and stores like Coach, Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co., walking and shopping has always been a popular pastime. But more folks are adding sipping to the list. Wine Enthusiast recently named Monterey County a 2013 Top Ten Wine Travel Destination in the World. It was the only California wine region to make the 2013 list.

Home to over 40-thousand acres of vineyards, Monterey County has seen a 40 percent increase of tasting rooms in the last year, and Carmel-by-the-Sea is doing its part. Fifteen tasting rooms are now open for business in a walkable one-square-mile once dominated by shoppers.

Wine Walk

It’s hard to top the atmosphere that comes with visiting and tasting at an actual vineyard, but being able to sample a number of different wines without ever getting in a car has numerous advantages. Aside from not having to worry about the designated driver, you’re more likely to discover a new name you might have passed up on the road simply because it was a few miles too many off the day’s route.

The tasting rooms are close together but not on top of each other, which makes wandering in between easily doable. Wrath is located on the ground floor of Carmel Plaza, almost guaranteeing tasters will venture into a store or two. Parents traveling with older kids can set them loose to do some shopping while enjoying a tasting flight. Dogs are welcome.

Lunch Break

If you need a little food before the next round of tasting, the heated patio at 400° Gourmet Burgers & Fries is also dog-friendly. Along with the menu items the restaurant's name implies, you’ll find items like albacore tuna burgers and beer-battered onion rings. If you’re a fan of Molinari Delicatessen (who isn’t?) check out Italian deli and bakery Salumeria Luca. Grilled panini, salumi plates and an assortment of cold sandwiches make grabbing a quick bite easy and tasty. There’s also a case filled with gelato of every color. (Remember what I said about the hill on Ocean Avenue...)

There are a few tasting rooms located on the same block at Salumeria Luca, but Caraccioli Cellars is a nice change of pace, because they offer sparkling and still wines. The comfortable but hip tasting room stays open later than most tasting rooms, and serves small plates, assorted cheeses and chocolate along with wine. Shirley temples are available for younger guests, and dogs are welcome.

If you’re planning on sampling at more than a few tasting rooms, check out the Carmel Wine Walk by-the-Sea Passport. The passport covers flights at seven different tasting rooms at a discounted price.

Stay

Carmel Country Inn is a few blocks off Ocean Avenue, but close enough to hear the waves breaking on Carmel Beach when you step outside. Rooms range from a Queen Studio to spacious two-bedroom, two-bath suites, but all have gas fireplaces. A tasty breakfast buffet is served each morning, and an assortment of snacks are available throughout the day. Fun personal touches like photo albums of many of their canine guests and Tescher the resident cat, make this cozy inn worth a visit.

Dana can be found on Twitter @drebmann

Dana’s trip was organized by the Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau, but as always her thoughts and opinions are her own.

Read Article on the 7x7SF website.

Video: Astounding Eats

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Astounding Eats Get Better at Aubergine Restaurant

By the Monterey County Weekly

Chef Justin Cogley's culinary poetry is on display as Aubergine in Carmel-by-the-Sea gets set for a grand reopening.

Grand Dame Remerges

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Carmel’s Grand Dame Remerges After Facelift

By Janet Fullwood

This week’s news comes from Janet Fullwood, our Northern California contributing editor: When it comes to renovating a classic hotel that has been beloved over many generations, designers walk a thin line between too much modernization and not enough. So when the 97-year-old La Playa Hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea closed its doors in late 2011 for a nine-month, $3.5 million facelift, meeting planners and other fans held their collective breath, waiting to see what kind of butterfly would emerge.

Even from a distance, one could almost see the smiles when the wraps came off on Aug. 1. “Anything that could be restored was restored,” says General Manager Mary Crowe. “It was the right thing to do not only from the view of maintaining the historic feel of the property, but of not replacing things that were serviceable and could be preserved.”

The Mission-style property long referred to as the “Grand Dame” of this tony seaside community started life as the grand residence of artist Christian Jorgensen, who built it in 1905 for his wife, a member of the Ghirardelli family of chocolate fame. It became a full-service hotel in 1916, expanding to 75 rooms over the years but retaining its beautiful garden terraces and gracious feel. Generations have gathered here for weddings, retreats, business meetings and other affairs. Steve Jobs and early Apple executives were for a while regulars.

“The location-two blocks from the ocean and two blocks from the village-is unparalleled,” says Crowe. “What’s also lovely is that the meetings rooms have a residential feeling. They have ocean views, garden views and lots of fresh air.”

Much of the renovation focused on features such as high-speed broadband capability and soundproofing that guests will experience but never see. An emphasis on sustainability saw rooms renovated with up to 30 percent post-consumer and rapid-renewal materials (even the room keys are made of bamboo). The philosophy extends into the kitchen, where a farm-to-table ethic prevails.

La Playa has about 5,000 square feet of indoor meeting space, as well as outdoor venues. It’s largest space, the Pacific Room, opens onto a terrace with fire pit, ocean views and heaters, and can handle receptions or theater-style seating for 200. “All the other spaces but one have windows and natural light, and the one that doesn’t has a fireplace and is perfect for a cozy dinner,” says Crow.

“This kind of openness doesn’t happen in newer projects,” she adds. “The meeting rooms get tucked away.” For more, visit La Playa.

Read Article on the California Meetings & Events website.

Wine Enthusiast: Best Wine Travel 2013

Tue, 08 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

10 Best Wine Travel Destinations 2013

From classic regions to lesser-known corners, our editors
select this year’s best in wine, food and cultural adventure.

BY WINE ENTHUSIAST EDITORS

A sense of place - the sights, sounds, smells and spirit of a travel destination—can endear that area to a person forever. For wine lovers, there is no better way to cement that connection than to explore the world around those vines. As the wine market becomes ever more global, packed with offerings ranging from the most storied wine regions to the most offbeat, so does the wine traveler’s itinerary.

Each year, our editors travel the world to experience the best wine and food, and in turn, discover the most exciting places to visit. Our list for 2013 represents the wide swath of cultural and culinary experiences on the must-see list.

Whether your tastes lean toward the rustic climbing trails of South Africa’s Stellenbosch or a tour of a Puglian castle, this list promises outstanding travel experiences and unforgettable wines.

Read Article on the Wine Enthusiast Magazine website

Cozy Up

Mon, 07 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Cozy up to Carmel this Year

By Carin von Berg

Carmel, CA- Situated on the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel-by-the-Sea, better known as Carmel, is a charming and sleepy town that attracts visitors year-round who are looking for romantic bed-and-breakfast lodging, impeccable cuisine, fine art, quaint boutiques, a white sandy beach, world-class golf and wine, wine and more wine!

Currently, Carmel is offering the Carmel Wine Walk by-the-Sea Tasting Passport which allows guests the option to experience multiple vineyards and tasting rooms all in one day or to spread the tastings over a weekend, several weeks, or even months. The Wine Tasting Passport is available for purchase at the Carmel Chamber of Commerce Visitor’s Center on San Carlos between 5th and 6th streets.

Get There

Carmel is located on the Pacific coast, approximately 330 miles north of Los Angeles and 120 miles south of San Francisco. Monterey Regional Airport is located just minutes from Carmel and provides 40 daily flights with direct service to San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Denver, and Las Vegas.

For those fortunate enough to take a leisurely road trip from Los Angeles, there are two must see destinations: Hearst Castle and Big Sur’s Post Ranch Inn. The Grand Rooms Museum Tour is recommended for first-time visitors and provides weary tourists the perfect opportunity to stretch their limbs during the 45 minute tour which covers 2/3 miles. Afterwards, treat yourselves to a gourmet lunch complete with breathtaking views at Sierra Mar, the Post Ranch Inn’s award winning restaurant.

Stay

Carmel has no shortage of lodging or dining options, so we’re here to help you fine tune your decision process. The Hofsas Houseis our prime lodging pick because it can accommodate families, large groups and couples alike while not blowing your budget.

This unique, boutique establishment has been owned and operated by the Theis family for more than 60 years and provides guests with European hospitality. Many of the 38, one-of-a kind , Bavarian themed rooms and suites (many showcasing the art work of famed artist Maxine Albro) have fireplaces, ocean views, kitchens, and private balconies to enjoy the picturesque setting of Carmel. Guests are treated to a complimentary continental breakfast, heated pool, European style dry saunas, pet-friendly rooms, ample parking and free wifi.

Can’t decide which activities to indulge in during your stay in Carmel? Hofsas House offers top-notch, personal services such as in room his and her couple massages, wine and cheese pairings, beach fire and s’mores bundles, and golf course reservations.

Dine

Katy’s Place has been a Carmel tradition since 1982, professing to be “Home of the World’s Best Eggs Benedict.” Tucked away on a quaint street, we couldn’t agree more, as Katy’s Place boasts the west coast’s largest breakfast menu, serving more than 16 versions of Eggs Benedict alone.

Don’t let the twinkle in the eyes of proprietor Edward Randall Bernett fool you, the recipe for the restaurant’s top-secret hollandaise sauce will never be divulged. Our Dungeness Benedict was bursting with buttery, crab meat over a bed of fresh spinach. All of the Eggs Benedict dishes are made from three, ranch eggs poached to order, perched atop an English Muffin bathed in Hollandaise sauce and come with fresh fruit or country potatoes. Breakfast is served during restaurant hours (daily from 7am to 2pm), and includes numerous omelettes, pancakes and waffles, pastries and French Toast. Katy’s Place also has a lunch menu that includes crab cakes, lobster bisque, Cheese Burgers, Garden Burger’s, BLT’s and more. Just make sure to stop by the ATM before you visit because the restaurant only accepts cash.

Hands down, our top pick for lunch is the Rio Grille located in the upscale Crossroads Shopping Village. It’s almost a crime to dine here if you don’t try one of their top-notch margaritas. We imbibed in the Rio Rita made with Herradura Silver and the Silver Coin made with Patron Silver. We started with a flavor explosion thanks to the Grilled Flatbread topped with smoked chile-chickpea puree, tapenade and Cotija cheese. Next, we moved on to a succulent Pumpkin Seed Crusted Loch Duart Salmon, drizzled with a chipotle-lime vinaigrette atop an almond crusted, red pepper mashed potato cake. We also sampled a refreshingly innovative , deconstructed Chinese Chicken Salad before being treated to a house made Olallieberry Pie and ridiculously sinful Roasted Banana Cake with burnt Caramel and coconut Ice Cream.

If you are in the mood for lively entertainment and a jovial environment along with a festive dinner, Mundaka is your place. Mundaka is an authentic, Spanish style, tapas restaurant that serves regional specialties such as Paella Valenciana with saffron rice, Datiles of bacon wrapped dates, goat cheese and almonds, Albondigas (chorizo meatballs, clams, saffron couscous), and much more. Though many of the dishes were meat centric, we were especially blown away by the unique flavors of the Coliflor (cauliflower gratin, horseradish and gruyére) and the Coles de Bruselas (brussel sprouts, apple cider vinegar and cumin). Mundaka only believes in serving fresh, local, organic, biodynamic, free-range, line-caught, sustainable, fair-trade and home made ingredients. In addition to the cuisine, Mundaka has a creative cocktail menu in addition to beer, sangria and wine.

If a quiet, upscale and award winning dining experience is more your speed, Grasing’s provides the perfect setting for a romantic and unforgettable evening. Start with the farm-raised, Monterey Bay sourced Abalone prepared doré style and the sinfully tasty Lobster Mac n’ Cheese with leeks, toasted bread crumbs and fresh herbs. The inventive Warm Spinach Salad with diced pancetta, beets, feta cheese and a dijon vinaigrette is also an excellent accompaniment to your meal. Grasing’s has an incredibly well-rounded menu with a selection of steaks ranging from Filet Mignon to Skirt Steak, a bounty of seafood such as the wild caught Sea of Cortez Prawns and the Seared Diver Scallops with three-cheese, spinach ravioli, wild mushrooms, baby bok choi, in a marsala cream sauce and a Portobella and Tofu Tower of grilled peppers, roasted eggplant, drizzled with tomato-pesto for vegan diners. With the aide of the sommelier, we discovered a 2009 Villa Mt. Eden pinot noir that paired perfectly with our selections.

Play

Minutes away from Carmel sits the world-famous Pebble Beach golf course. Renowned for it’s storied past and oceanside locale, Pebble Beach has defined champions and championship moments throughout it’s history. Though it is considered to be one of the world’s most challenging golf courses, Pebble Beach has welcomed players of all skill levels since 1919.

Read Article on the LuxLife Magazine website.

Wine Country

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Monterey County Wine Country

By Tampa Bay's Fine Wine

Welcome to a whirlwind tour of beautiful Monterey County Wine Country, one of California’s largest wine growing and producing regions...truly a wine lover’s paradise. Over 200 years ago wine grapes were introduced to the county by Franciscan Friars who recognized that the unique microclimates were a perfect environment for growing grapes and producing wine. An AVA is an American Viticultural Area which means it is a federally designated area that has climatic, geologic and geographic features that distinguish it from the land surrounding it. We will explore five of the nine AVA’s that are home to the roughly 85 vintners and growers that nurture the 40,000 acres of grapes being grown today and we will learn about the exceptional wines that are the results of all of their efforts. We had the great pleasure of meeting and tasting with some of the very talented and impressive, up-and-coming winemakers in the region and some of the more established, better known vintners. We should qualify “up-and-comers” as the “newer” wineries…trust me, they are “already there and making a dramatic statement”.

The beautiful thing is that they all work together in such an amazing atmosphere truly representing a “One for all and all for one” mentality. Proof of that spirit of “working together” is the Monterey Signature Series Wines that are the collaboration of twelve wineries in Monterey County. They are the 2010, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA Pinot Noir produced by Hahn, Paraiso and Pessagno and the 2010, Monterey Pinot Noir produced by Wrath, McIntyre and Scheid. Both are stellar Pinots and represent the AVA’s well! The 2010,Chalone AVA Chardonnay is the result of efforts by Chalone Vineyards, Michaud Vineyard and Pinnacles House/Woodward & Graf and the 2010, Arroyo Seco AVA Chardonnay was produced by Wente, J.Lohr and Carmel Road; both are beautiful Chardonnays.

This area is famous for Big Sur and the 17 Mile Drive on its breathtaking coastline; Pebble Beach, one of its many legendary golf courses; Monterey Bay and its “Blue Grand Canyon”; the world class Monterey Aquarium, Cannery Row and Fisherman’s Wharf. You will find an abundance of fabulous restaurants offering culinary experiences featuring the Salinas Valley’s farm fresh produce, and of course, the superb wines that we can’t wait to introduce to you!

For more information and to plan your visit to Monterey County be sure to visit the Monterey Vintners & Growers Association at www.montereywines.org, the Monterey Convention & Visitors Bureau at www.seemonterey.com, the Carmel Chamber of Commerce at www.carmelcalifornia.org, and the California Dept. of Food & Agriculture. A heartfelt “Thank You” goes out to everyone that we met along the way...you made us feel so welcome...this was a very special and memorable journey for us and we know that it will be for our readers, too!

Read Article on Tampa Bay's Fine Wine website.

Stimulating Relaxation

Wed, 02 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

Stimulating Relaxation in Big Sur, Carmel, Monterey and Pacific Grove

By Mark Owen, Travel Contributor

At the age of 39 I had never been to California; a trip was definitely in order. After some consultation with Ron Kapon who wrote of his trip there in 2009, I decided to follow up with a visit of my own to the Carmel/Monterey area. As a New Yorker who'd never seen the West Coast before it proved to be the perfect choice for an introduction to America's Pacific and the California coastline.

I flew into the Monterey Peninsula Airport, a small and easy to navigate location with friendly staff. Even the bathrooms were clean. 15 minutes after walking off the plane I had my bag in the trunk of my rental car and was on my way to Highway 1, heading south towards Big Sur.

Imagine being caught in the hustle bustle chaos of Manhattan's concrete jungle for some time. Then you take a comfortable trip by plane to the West Coast. Immediately after that you are driving with the windows down, the smell of the ocean and clean air rushing thru and suddenly you realize you are driving along one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. It was, truly, a perfect introduction.

The 47-mile drive south to Esalen took roughly 90 minutes. If you are a first time visitor like I was you will want to add time to pull over at several of the many available pull offs offering wonderful vistas for pictures or just appreciation; I stopped at least 8 times on the drive south with a cloudy coastline for pictures.

Esalen is both a retreat center and educational institute that is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year. They offer a myriad of workshops for personal and professional growth including organizational leadership, the arts, psychology, spiritualty, sexuality, physical and emotional recovery... The list goes on and on. Peruse their newly designed website for more details. Esalen is also a retreat, space permitting, for those who simply wish to recharge their sensibilities with access to hot spring pools or massage right on the shore, yoga, tasty and healthy food grown and prepared on site and the wonderful ambiance that Big Sur provides. There is no cellular signal nearby and wireless in the dining area is not active during meals. It is truly possible to put the world at arm's length at Esalen.

I chose a Friday-Sunday workshop concentrating on posture and energy, which proved an invaluable start to a relaxing trip. The workshop was taught by Harvey Deutsch, a yogi and physical therapist who is owner as well as practitioner at Red Hawk Physical Therapy in San Francisco. I learned a great deal about how to better stand, sit, breathe and focus with a pursuit for better health and mental acuity. I'm sitting with better posture and attention as I write this as one result!

I took advantage of the hot spring tubs several times and they are greatly relaxing and restorative. They are clothing optional which, to my surprise, proved to be quite confortable. It's all about the ocean, the mineral water and relaxation. One might hear sea otters playing in the surf just below or a whale call in the distance like I did. My one regret was not fitting in an Esalen massage though I plan to indulge on my next trip out.

Sunday afternoon after the last workshop session and lunch I packed up, checked out and headed back north towards Monterey/Carmel. I was graced with open sunshine that transformed the Big Sur coastline into a different beauty causing me to make more stops on the roadside. About 10 miles south of Carmel I had an early dinner at the Rocky Point Restaurant which sits right on the water. It offers outside dining as well as interior seating with windows along its waterside. The menu ranges from great seafood appetizers to a Filet Mignon entr?e with all the trimmings.

With my navigating iPhone low on power I hurried the last miles to Carmel with just enough time to check into the Sandpiper Inn and a quick one block walk to the southern end of Carmel beach to watch the sunset. The sunset was spectacular and began my lonesome yet romantic visit to Carmel/Monterey. The Sandpiper Inn features comfortably rustic d?cor with early California architecture. I fell asleep surfing around the virtual Carmel/Monterey using their free wireless.

Monday morning I took breakfast at the Inn and took a walk around the neighborhood, filled with beautiful and mostly empty multi-million dollar homes. On the advice of other Inn visitors I walked to the south end of Scenic Road and followed its loop around and back up towards Carmel Beach. It proved to be good advice as I got to see Carmel River State Beach, a beautiful stretch bereft of all the visiting tourists.

After a 5-minute drive mid-morning I made my way over to Hofsas House where I checked in and met the General Manager Carrie Theis, who helped me settle in. Hofsas House was founded by Carrie Theis's grandmother Donna Hofsas 60 years ago and has always been managed by the family, with Carrie as general manager since 2000. The main hotel was built in 1957 and today features 38 rooms on several levels on an inclined slope, an unusual property for Carmel that allows a lot of light, air and large deck views of the sea. Enjoying its large lot size Hofsas House includes a year-round heated swimming pool, an unusual luxury in Carmel by the Sea. Other features include dry saunas, one each for men and women, ample off street parking which I must say is an area luxury, free wireless in all the rooms and most of the property as well as continental breakfast which can, upon request, be delivered to your room. Also, "All of the spacious rooms have cable television, telephones with voice mail, coffee makers, hair dryers and private bathrooms with such amenities as shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and a vanity kit. Fireplaces, wet bars, kitchens or private balconies are available in some rooms. Deluxe rooms have microwaves and refrigerators. Available upon request are irons and ironing boards." Carrie and her family run a family hotel that is family friendly all while making guests feel like family.

Settling into my room on the top level and facing the sea I was greeted by a mini kitchen featuring a bottle of chilled local Chardonnay called Ventana, paired with crackers and two local cheeses from The Cheese Shop. The cheeses were East of Eden and Domain du Village. Continuing my theme as the lonesome romantic my room also offered a king size bed and a cast iron stove large enough for a vigorous fire. After some wine and cheese I unpacked for the evening and went out to see the town.

Armed with a Carmel Wine Walk by-the-sea Passport I went out to explore. The Passport offers complimentary tastings featuring local wineries at Galante Vineyards, Caraccioli Cellars, Figge Cellars, Vino Napoli, Scheid Vineyards, Manzoni Cellars and Wrath Wines. Please note these tasting locations have different hours/days of availability, so if you want to see them all plan ahead to fit your itinerary, especially if you are combining the wine tastings with gallery hopping and shopping.

As a stone carver I really enjoyed exploring some of the many galleries and studio/galleries. One can very easily spend a day or even an entire weekend looking at the art and craft work in Carmel by the Sea. Perhaps struck by the local partnering theme I saw at Hofsas House, I really enjoyed the Carmel Art Association, the second oldest operating non-profit artists cooperative featuring over 120 local artists. If I lived in the area, I'd try to be a member.

Filled with sufficient wine, color and local texture I hurried back to my room at Hofsas House to get refreshed before going to Dinner at Mundaka Restaurant, named for the hill surf town in the Basque region of northern Spain where the owner Gabe Georis once studied and surfed. Mundaka offers a tapas style menu of great variety and a well paired wine list as well as a dangerous cocktail menu; I perused all three to great effect. The lovely and interesting interior is hard to describe though my best effort that evening was a combination of reclaim modern, rustic Spanish and a dollop of steam punk. With the assistance of my waiter I enjoyed a nice wine from the Canary Islands, Fronton de Oro, which paired well with the variety of tapas I enjoyed that included both red meats and fish. Please note that on Mondays Mundaka hosts a Spanish guitar player both talented and experienced. Between courses I approached the bar to ask a question or three of the host who turned out to be the owner, Gabe Georis. He was very generous with his time and provided me with very helpful background on the history and community of Carmel. Beyond sated I returned to my room at Hofsas House where a nice fire, the remnants of wine and cheese and a full day in Carmel by the Sea brought me to sleep. Tuesday morning I took advantage of the in-room coffee maker enabling me to go down for breakfast, more coffee (alas) and a proper tour of Hofsas House with Carrie Theis before leaving for my next location.

By 11:30 AM I arrived at the Martine Inn that sits facing the water on Ocean View Boulevard in Pacific Grove. It is a short walk from there to Cannery Row and the Monterey Aquarium on one side and the Lovers Point Park and Pacific Grove Golf Course on the other. It is owned and operated by Don Martine, a local of 35 years who is a sports car and engine restorer, particularly MG's. At the age of 77 he continues to race the cars he maintains in vintage races. He has been a city councilman, chairman of the Beautification Committee, Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce and was awarded Citizen of the Year. He is the founding president of the California Association of Bed and Breakfast Inns (CABBI) and is a member of the California Hotel and Lodging Association Hall of Fame. The Martine Inn's web site describes it as a living museum, a place where guests can experience the lifestyle "as a wealthy person 120 years ago." Don Martine oversaw and conducted a $1 million restoration of the Victorian mansion in 1972. "The Martine Inn is now furnished with period antiques ranging from 1800 to 1920."

At first blush I wasn't able to get past Mr. Martine's professional reserve, though he was very informative during the tour of what is, really, a living museum. Picture if you will a large period mansion that thoroughly maintains an era from yesteryear's heyday. You are walking through it with its owner who knows each piece of silver in every service and every antique in every room, which is every item in every room. The owner speaks casually with absentminded and utter familiarity and you struggle with the impossible task of perceiving all that you are seeing as you move on. That was my experience, walking through history with an impressive figure of a guide in Don Martine.

I fetched my bags and Mr. Martine guided me to my room, the Malarin. The Inn has several categories of rooms: the Ocean View, Fireside, Romance, Intimate and Family Suite rooms. Each room has a profile page describing the furnishings with detailed pictures. The Malarin is a Fireside room that included an 1893 Mahogany American Eastlake King bed headboard and a 1900 5?-foot claw foot tub with shower, among many others. Seeing pictures is a start, but visiting is the surefire way to understand how well Mr. Martine has created history you get to visit.

Then Mr. Martine asked if I would be interested in seeing his "shop," where he restores and maintains his MG's. I naturally jumped at the chance and was treated to a Don Martine who spoke passionately about something he loves, maintaining/restoring vintage MG cars and racing them. He literally knows each car from nut and bolt, as well as how best to drive each car strategically in a race. I found myself wishing to have lived in the era when those cars were ascendant. Like Don Martine, they really don't make them like they used to. The visit to his shop was a highlight to my trip. Several of his cars are at the Inn to be enjoyed, if not driven, by visiting guests. A list of the cars on property at any given time are shown on their website.

With the afternoon at hand I walked the short distance to Cannery Row, a hotspot for shopping, hotels, food and fun activities ranging from miniature golf, wine tastings and spas. On the way there from Martine Inn I passed by the Edward F. Ricketts State Marine Conservation area, home to a resurgent population of California sea lions. As I wasn't expecting them on a casual walk, when I saw a host of harbor seals sunning on the beach I stood gawking; I'm an east coaster. While gawking I was in the way of fellow visitors who had rented bikes and surreys, four wheeled bikes for several people. Out of Cannery Row there are also kayak rentals, kayak tours as well as stand up paddling, which looks challenging to me but I'm fairly tall at 6'4.

With the afternoon fast disappearing I hustled to the Carmel Valley Athletic Club in Carmel Valley, roughly a 15-minute drive from Pacific Grove with tourist traffic midday. Though I'm not a member of the club, visitors are able to make appointments to "America's 1st Co-Ed Relaxation Spa," called Refuge. They call it "your 3 best hours in Carmel" and I'm hard pressed to argue if your goal is relaxation. I was greeted by Axel Binneboese, the general manager of the CVAC. He explained the philosophy behind Refuge, its effectiveness at helping people achieve relaxation and strongly encouraged me to apply their repetitive cycle properly.

Refuge touts a hydro thermal cycle, which is practiced thusly: first heating up for 5-10 minutes in a vast co-ed cedar sauna, a co-ed eucalyptus steam bath or one of 6 sparkling, UV cleansed, thermal mineral pools; second is the cool down in either one of two cool plunge pools the temperature of the Pacific Ocean or one of two cold (COLD) pools the temperature of an icy river for 10-60 seconds; third you relax somewhere in the available "2 acres of serene, silent, indoor & outdoor relaxation overlooking the Santa Lucia Preserve" for 10-15 minutes. That includes zero gravity chairs in quiet rooms with soothing ethereal music, where I witnessed and experienced incidental naps. Refuge recommends that the full benefits come from repeating the sequence 3-4 times and that a euphoric yet calm and relaxed state is often achieved in this practice. With Axel's encouragement in mind I did the sequence 5 times and my only regret was not having scheduled a massage at Refuge immediately after. Silence is part of this practice, so cell phones and chatter are specifically discouraged. The pricing currently is $39 for Refuge admission, $60 in addition for a massage and $12 for a robe rental if you don't have one while traveling. Bathing suits are required. Sandals are available for purchase as is water. For my next visit to Refuge I'll bring my bathing suit, robe, flip-flops, large water bottle and sunglasses. You can't bring food in so I strongly recommend a snack waiting in the car. The relaxation practice at Refuge is effective and I think beneficial for all walks of life. Axel, when are you bringing this to Manhattan?

After my very successful relaxation at Refuge I headed back to Carmel for dinner. Yet again I found myself solo at a romantic establishment called, to deepen the irony, Casanova. Casanova is on 5thAvenue between Mission and San Carlos. It is a self-described landmark of Carmel and is rich with history. I did not know beforehand, but Casanova is home to Van Gogh's Table, the table at which the artist enjoyed his meals at the Auberge Ravoux, still in operation today, where he lived in the village of Auvers-sur-Oise, just north of Paris. I rarely indulge in a digestif, but at Casanova I closed the evening properly with a Single Malt Whiskey. Back at the Martine Inn I again fell asleep with a crackling fireplace.

Wednesday morning I enjoyed a full breakfast at Martine Inn and marveled at the silver and china service while enjoying the broad view of the ocean from the dining room. After another stop to gawk at the harbor seals, I met a friend with her three young sons at the Monterey Aquarium, giving me the chance to enjoy the children's introduction to the aquarium as well. Who knew 7 year-olds are such good photographers as tourists? Three hours, many pictures and "wow's!" later we all piled into a minivan for the 17-Mile Drive, the scenic road through Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach. If you enjoy golf, the ocean, mansions or natural beauty I recommend this 17-mile stretch. If you enjoy them all then it is a must. We stopped at Pebble Beach where I picked up a golf cap for my father. As my friend grew up in Pebble Beach she gave me a tour, showing me many of the grand mansions that her father designed and built. It was an insider's treat to a unique community.

Our next stop was the nearby Fisherman's Wharf, formerly a wholesale fish market into the 1960's when local commercial fishing tapered off, and a major tourist attraction today. The wharf has many seafood restaurants including casual, open-air clam bars as well as formal indoor venues where diners can enjoy views of the bay. If you want souvenirs the Wharf also has gift shops, jewelry stores, art galleries and candy shops. We went open-air and enjoyed clam chowder and fish & chips with a mandatory stop with the kids at one of the candy stores.

After parting with my friend and her children I headed 10 minutes over to my last night's abode, the Mariposa Inn and Suites, located on Munras Avenue in Monterey. Check-in was easy and I rapidly found myself getting familiar with my room, one of the Inn's Executive King Suites featuring King-size bed with luxury linens, Gas log fireplace, Separate sitting area, Microwave & refrigerator, In-room safe, Desk with media lamp, Wired & wireless internet, Two flat-panel HD televisions with cable TV & HBO (one in sitting area and one in bedroom), Complimentary "Healthy Beginnings" Continental Breakfast, I-Pod docking station/alarm clock, Complimentary local phone calls, Single-brew coffeemaker with Wolfgang Puck Coffees, Iron and ironing board, Ionic hairdryer, Plush bathrobes.

The room was very comfortable and while the pool was tempting I only had one more day to explore the area this visit. My first stop was right across Munras Avenue at the Del Monte Center, a shopping center with several dozen retail stores, eateries and services including UPS and a Whole Foods Market. But all I needed was socks from the GAP and an iPhone charger from the Apple Store. Then I headed back into Carmel by the Sea with my Wine Walk by-the-sea Passport. After several glasses of wine and more galleries visited I decided to simply stroll along the beach and watch Carmel's dusk approach. Dinner found me at Carmel by the Sea's Akaoni, a Japanese restaurant and sushi bar on Mission and 6th Ave that several people had recommended. More than sated on Tempura and sushi I headed back to my room at the Mariposa Inn and yet again fell asleep in a King size bed, this last night the fire being a gas log fireplace and my iPhone playing music on the room's I-Pod docking station/alarm clock. After enjoying the Continental Breakfast the next morning and catching up on email with my iPad on the deck with wireless I took my leave of the Mariposa Inn and Suites and prepared to leave Carmel, Monterey and Pacific Grove.

My next visit to the area I'll bring a date to take advantage of the romantic and private settings I found at Hofsas House, Martine Inn and Mariposa Inn. Hofsas House is centrally located in Carmel by the Sea, making it easy to forget your car for a few days with so much nearby within walking distance. Martine Inn is right on the water, is itself an attraction and offers easy access to everything Pacific Grove and Monterey have to offer, with the Aquarium and Cannery Row just steps away. The Mariposa Inn is just off Highway 1, making it an easy launching point to anywhere in the area by car, though I'd likely next stay in one of its Spa Suites, which includes an in-room spa. Please see the links below for more information. Hofsas House, Martine Inn and Mariposa Inn and Suites all have local partnerships and specials, so take advantage of what may be available during your stay.

Other things on my To Do list for the next trip is Scuba Diving, renting a bike for a long coastal ride, hiking the Julia Pfeifer Burns State Park and Garland Ranch Regional Park, a kayak tour of Stillwater Cove, some sailing in the local waters and, of course, a round of golf.

Read Article on The Sports Network website

Old Hollywood

Wed, 26 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Finding Old Hollywood Along the Coast

Making for Monterey or the Central Coast?
Discover spots with a starry past.

By Alysia Gray Painter

HOLLYWOOD IN THE FIELD: Anyone who has worked in or around show business understands the thinking that Hollywood isn't just Hollywood. That may sound like a strange riddle, but it simply means that films go on location and stars sometimes live outside of Los Angeles. And when stars do live outside of Los Angeles, they very often head north, to the coast, to spread out on a little land or raise horses or help with animal sanctuaries. That's been the tradition, at least, for the last several decades, meaning that the Central Coast and Monterey Bay area are both steeped in Tinseltown lore. (Don't you love when you get a chance to use "steeped"? We do.) If you're longing a bit of that Hollywood Northwest flavor, and you've got a few days to road trip, why not check out...

THE MONTECITO INN: Charlie Chaplin is the name most associated with this 1928 beauty; after all, he opened it. Many luminaries of the day, and the years after, came to stay, including Carole Lombard. The boutique property is in Santa Barbara.

FOUR SEASONS THE BILTMORE SANTA BARBARA: Rock Hudson married here, and stars from the Golden Age regularly returned. (Hi, Joan Crawford and Greta Garbo.) Of all of California's old-school, swankified resorts, this one feels very much like walking into 1935. Call it a time machine, with cocktails.

MISSION RANCH RESORT: Mr. Clint Eastwood -- we're fairly sure that name needs no introduction -- saved this Carmel beauty, and restored it, too. It's got the best of both Carmel pleasures, too -- under ten blocks to the beach and under ten blocks to the village. You kind of want both while you're there, right?

CYPRESS INN: It's charming, it's historic, it has a famous co-owner -- Ms. Doris Day -- and it is located in oh-so-quaint Carmel. (Seriously, can't the word "quaint" and "Carmel" just be interchangeable?) But possibly it's biggest claim to fame is it is very, very dog friendly. Hurrah to that. Or, rather, arf arf?

Read Article on the NBC Bay Area website

Respite from Holiday Bustle

Wed, 26 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Carmel offers respite from holiday bustle

Written by Eren Göknar - Special to the Los Altos Town Crier

The weeks after Christmas and New Year’s Day offer revelers a chance to regain their strength from the rounds of holiday cooking and frolicking. It’s a good time to relax and get away for two or three days. Throughout the month of January, quaint Carmel quiets down, and a few more rooms become available at the inns.

Monta Potter, CEO of the Carmel Chamber of Commerce, boasts about the area’s mild climate – an average of 60 F in January. Point Lobos State Preserve offers coastside hiking and some of the most beautiful views in the region.

Even if it’s cold, there are plenty of alternatives to the beach. Carmel Wine Walk passports sell for $50 and allow holders to taste at seven local tasting rooms via self-guided tour and map. Stop by the Visitors’ Center between Fifth and Sixth streets downtown to buy one.

Potter also noted that Carmel has three theatrical companies, and "there are concerts of all kinds going on all the time."

The following lodges offer rejuvenating winter specials.

CARMEL VALLEY RANCH

Carmel Valley Ranch, 1 Old Ranch Road, features packages for the Christmas weary. For those still in the holiday spirit, the hotel’s Spa Aiyana offers a unique $195 Neroli gold massage using resins of frankincense, myrrh and gold.

The Ranch sits on 500 acres and includes two saltwater pools and hot tubs, as well as tennis courts and a golf course.

Choices include booking an overnight suite with daily continental breakfast for two, featuring a one-time $50 activity credit toward tennis, golf or the spa. Suites range from 650 square feet to the two 1,200-square-foot Carmel Suites. Pay the regular rate, but the resort will credit you for half off a third consecutive night. The resort will also credit customers for half off a third consecutive night for a future stay through May 16. Rates start at $325, so this could be a good deal.

Chef Tim Wood’s favorite organic farm-to-table six-course feast celebrates New Year’s Eve 6-11 p.m. Monday. For $145 per person, dishes include Lobster Salad, Winter Black Truffle Risotto and a third-course selection of Sonoma Duck, Filet of Beef or Alaskan Halibut. For dessert, choose from Honey Salt Pot de Crème, Apple Crisp or Lavender Ice Cream (the resort grows hundreds of lavender plants).

Partygoers will receive party bags. Reservations are required, either by contacting the concierge or by calling (831) 626-2599.

The after-dinner dance in the Oak Room is free to all guests, and a cash bar will available. DJs will spin music from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

The resort also presents a family-friendly buffet dinner in the Redwood Room 6-9:30 p.m. New Year’s Eve, at $75 for adults and $30 for children.

The menu includes hors d’oeuvres, salads, a sushi display, a raw shellfish bar, turkey, pork loin, truffle bread pudding and a choice of desserts. For reservations, call (831) 626-2599.

For more information, call (866) 405-5037 or visit www.carmelvalleyranch.com.

INNS BY THE SEA

In Carmel-by-the-Sea, where you can stroll through the shops downtown, Inns By The Sea, a collection of distinctive resorts, offers winter specials.

Those who prepay receive a 60 percent discount on two-night stays, including weekends. Otherwise, the discount is 50 percent Sundays through Thursdays in January.

During any three-night stay, management offers a $50 certificate to use at its restaurant partners, through March 31.

The inns feature bed-and-breakfast charm and some offer Jacuzzi tubs, kitchens and fireplaces. Most are pet-friendly.

Accommodations under the Inns By The Sea umbrella include The Babbling Brook, Candlelight, Carriage House, Cypress, Dolphin, Depot Hill, Svensgaard and Wayside.

For more information, call (800) 610-3239 or visit www.innsbythesea.com.

For more information and a list of things to do in Carmel, visit www.carmelcalifornia.org.

Read Article on the Los Altos Town Crier website

Carmel-by-the-Glass

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Reflections on First-Ever Carmel-by-the-Glass by Rich Pepe and Local Wineries

By Mark-C-Anderson, Monterey County Weekly

Between the male models with flat-tops wandering around the damp grass in pajamas, female fashionistas in $15,000 sustainably made fur coats (really) and the other models posing earnestly nearby in the dark, the debut event felt totally…natural.

OK-the lighting element will evolve, but the fact that there was a throng of upper-crusty wine lovers filling adorable Devendorf Park last week for Rich Pepe’s inaugural Carmel-by-the-Glass did have a certain logical appeal. With so many great tasting rooms within a labradoodle's two-wee wee walk, and clear enthusiasm for the proposed street market-dozens of advisors are weighing in before one table’s been set up-something like last week’s fashion-forward tasting would seem fun, fitting and feasible.

And it was. Turnout was so extensive Pepe and his peeps blew through 350 wine glasses and started fetching stemware from his nearby restaurants, including neighboring Vesuvio (625-1766).

He estimates they ultimately borrowed another 100, which helped allow the event to write a check for $3,000 to Carmel Mission Foundation.

"To see the locals respond-not a couple hundred but twice that-was exhilarating," he said.

On the Devendorf lawns, local pols swooned.

"Isn’t it great?" asked Councilwoman Karen Sharp.

"We’re all here," said Carmel Planning Commissioner Steve Dallas. "We want to see it do good."

Industry folks grinned. Mundaka owner Gabe Georis, one of the loudest and most articulate industry voices endorsing the street market-which the Weekly made sure was a priority issue in the fall election-couldn't resist a quick I-told-you-so.

"People say there's no demand for something like this," he said, smiling. "Look around."

Sheid Hospitality Director Stefani Chaney was pleasantly surprised at what normally old-as-the-Cypresses, white-as-the-beach-sand Carmel pulled off.

"Sleepy Carmel on a school night in 40-something degrees?" she said. "Not bad for the first event. There are a lot of locals out-and there are people from the Independent Marketplace! Talk about diverse!"

On the small stage where a couple of bands rotated through, Pepe introduced Galante Vineyards' Jack Galante, whose grandpa is credited with founding the the then-bohemian hamlet and whose name decorates the park that played host to the party.

"If it wasn’t for J.F. Devendorf, we wouldn’t have Carmel," he said. "If it wasn’t for Rich Pepe, we wouldn’t have Carmel-by-the-Glass."

"I guess it takes an Italian."

The snacks also leaned Italian: Neilsen Brothers, Salumeria Luca and Bruno's laid out generous mounds of cured meats and tasty cheeses.

Pepe, who distributed gift bags with two $25 gift certificates to his restaurants, was quick to credit the vineyards represented.

"It's nice to see a segment of our retail community work in sync with each other and showcase what we can do," he said.

He sees the next Carmel installment coming in May or June ("It'll be a heck of a lot easier-now we know the ropes," he says) and perhaps a collaboration on a Monterey-by-the-Glass with Monterey Museum of Art and the chamber as early as the end of April.

"I think people really enjoyed it as a community event," he said. "People told me 'Wow, we hadn't seen these friends in so long, thanks for throwing a party outdoors in the park.'

"It's like an adult playground."

While Maddox Haberdasher coordinated fashion with inputs from local outposts Intima, Augustina and Parts Unknown on both the red carpet and the podiums, the Weekly learned De Tierra Vineyards’ tasting room looks to be online in the ivy-climbed brick building on Mission near Fifth (www.detierra.com) next month. Folks will get a shot at their bright Chard, Silacci Vineyard Pinot and the first late harvest Zin I’ve seen surface locally (with Mesa del Sol grapes).

I predicted lighting would be Pepe’s biggest challenge, and while Christmas lights strung above the tables worked nicely, the globe lighting assembled along the red carpet and model podiums did not.

But few really cared. They were far more focused on conversation and superb small-batch vineyard pours-and casting some light on the kind of party a little community cooperation can move down the runway.

Read Article on the Monterey County Weekly website

Bonita Estero Magazine: Make Your Way to Monterey County

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Make Your Way to Monterey County

Wine, Dine, and Take in Spectacular Scenery on the California Coast

by Roberta Sotonoff

Fog hangs over steep cliffs and the Pacific Ocean. Wild waves crash against the craggy shoreline. A slight drizzle gives the area an eerie feel. Big Sur's dramatic landscape leaves anyone amazed.

With its postcard-like beauty, Big Sure is just one of Monterey County's three amazing destinations. Located two to three hours south of San Francisco, each has its own vibe and appeal.

Upscale Carmel, just north of Big Sur, is all about the good life, with good great food, wine, and shopping. Carmel's northern neighbor, Monterey, has one of the country's foremost aquariums, and it's Cannery Row district brims with souvenir shops, fortune-telling machines, and franchise restaurants like Bubba Gump's Shrimp Co.

Here is our guide to visiting all three.

Culinary Carmel

One might think Napa, Sonoma, or even the Santa Barbara area as the largest wine-growing region in California. But it's actually Monterey Bay. Moderate temperatures and fog enable forty-two different varietals to thrive here.

Monterey County's Carmel Valley is dotted with wineries known for their tasty cabernet sauvignons, pinot noirs, and sauvignon blancs. Visitors can sample some of these at Carmel's thirteen tasting rooms.

For the full article, please visit the Bonita Estero online edition by clicking here.

The Californian: Carmel Wine Walk well worth its $50 price

Fri, 29 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

For full article click here

Carmel Wine Walk well worth its $50 price

Purchase Image

Mark Manzoni in his Carmel tasting room. / Elaine Hesser/For Off 68

Written by

Elaine Hesser

For Off 68

Carmel tasting room hours

• Caraccioli: 2 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday.

• Manzoni: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

• Figge: 2 to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday

• Galante: 1 to 6 p.m. Sunday through Friday, noon to 6 p.m. Saturday.

• Scheid: Noon to 6 p.m. daily.

• Vino Napoli: 3 to 10 p.m. daily.

• Wrath: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

We have great wine-tasting options in Monterey County: River Road, Carmel Valley, some places on Cannery Row — but how about the opportunity to park the car and walk to seven wineries within just a few blocks, and at a discount?

Carmel’s Wine Passport program, available at the Carmel Visitors’ Center (San Carlos Street between Fifth and Sixth avenues) for $50, offers just that. Serious oenophiles and novice tasters alike can get seven tastings of between three and five pours each, normally a $70 value. After picking up the passport card with its handy map, visitors can walk just two blocks and start tasting. Each winery stamps the passport, which can be shared; one person might want just to taste white wines and the other reds, for example. If the idea of seven wineries in one day seems daunting, take heart: Passports can be used over the course of weeks or even months.

On the bottom level of Carmel Plaza shopping center (Ocean Avenue at Junipero Street) is small-production winery Wrath’s room. Their “Summer Standard” tasting includes two chilled, stainless-steel-aged 2011 whites: a grassy sauvignon blanc and a chardonnay with notes of green apple and tropical fruit. A third wine, the 2010 pinot noir from Santa Lucia Highlands, brims with rich berry and black cherry fruit. The Carmel Cheese Shop — while not part of the official wine walk — is located just steps away and is a great place to taste and pick up some cheese and crackers. And because wine people are often also foodies, it’s hard to resist the siren song of nearby Sur La Table, with its myriad kitchen gadgets and tools.

After escaping the pull of that gastronomic triad of temptation, proceed about a block southwest to Scheid, near the corner of San Carlos Street and Seventh Avenue. During my visit, tasting room manager Scott Tidd poured four wines, starting with a food-friendly 2010 chardonnay. Sixty percent of the wine was aged in stainless steel and 40 percent in oak, and then the two were blended together to make a slightly acidic, clean chardonnay with just enough oak to round it out. This taste was followed by the curiously named “Odd Lot White,” made by blending eight separate white varietals together, starting with chardonnay and sauvignon blanc.

“The Scheid family has ties to the stock market,” explained Tidd. “Any sale under 100 shares is called an ‘odd lot.’ ” He characterized the easy-sipping white as a “hot summer day porch wine — really fun.”

On Dolores Street near Ocean Avenue, Caraccioli Cellars offers sparkling wines in addition to pinot noirs and chardonnays. Over a glass of 2008 Brut Rosé — a dry, barely pink methode champenoise sparkler with a hint of strawberry — Scott Caraccioli, vice president of sales and marketing, talked about the Carmel Wine Walk-by-the-Sea. “We’re blending seven wineries into one experience; the fact that we’re in wine country and it’s a walking destination make it a great attraction.” He said the tasting rooms are “almost like travel agents. People come in and ask, ‘Where should we eat?’ ” He pointed out another aspect of the Passport: those who want to eat in Carmel can buy a bottle of wine at any of the participating wineries and have the corkage waived at selected restaurants, including nearby Bistro Beaujolais, pet-friendly Bistro Giovanni and Cantinetta Luca. But hunger doesn’t have to wait at Caraccioli — the tasting room offers its guests a variety of snacks for purchase, including a charcuterie platter of cheeses and meats that features a savory wild boar sausage. Moving on to Figge Cellars (a few steps from Caraccioli on Dolores), owner Peter Figge happily chatted with guests about his creations. Manager of eight Monterey County Vineyards, Figge has a master’s degree in viticulture from University of California, Davis, and enjoys accentuating the differences in micro-climates between vineyards near the ocean and those farther inland. He was proud of all of his wines, but was particularly enthusiastic about his 2008 syrah. Figge noted that the wine — from the south Salinas Valley’s Sycamore Flats vineyard — is “not that ‘where’s my toothbrush tannin situation,’ ” and went on to say it would pair well “with anything that’s been carbon-fired”; the notion of a grilled medium-rare T-bone seemed to hang in the air. Mark Manzoni, owner of Manzoni Cellars, was equally hospitable in his tasting room on San Carlos Street, southwest of Ocean Avenue. Starting with his 2010 pinot gris with its notes of apple and pear and moving through five wines including a cherry-berry bomb of a 2010 pinot noir and a licorice-y 2009 syrah, he had an easy familiarity with not only his wines, but with customers as well.

Other tasting rooms participating in the wine walk include Vino Napoli, bookending Figge on Dolores Street, and Galante Vineyards, in the corner of a courtyard across the street from Figge. Tasting wine at a discount, great shopping and food, and to top it all off, walking off the guilt in charming Carmel-by-the-Sea: It’s a pretty good combination to add to the list for a stay-cation or tour with out-of-town visitors.

• Elaine Hesser is a food blogger and writer who lives in Salinas and likes to cook. She believes in shopping and eating locally whenever possible. You can visit her blog, “Lainie’s Last Stand,” at lainiemarie08.blogspot.com or email her atemgiuliano@gmail.com.

NBC-Bay Area Blog: Worth the Drive: Carmel Wine Walk-by-the-Sea

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

For the full article click here

OUR DAILY LOOK AT NEARBY GETAWAYS

CARMEL

Carmel Wine Walk-by-the-Sea

Strolling one of the planet's prettiest nooks and tasting vino? Okay.

By Alysia Gray Painter

| Monday, Jun 18, 2012 | Updated 12:49 PM PDT

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Shutterstock

Strolling around Carmel and sip wine? There's a map for that.

PARLOR GAMES: There are some mind-benders played after dinner that have to do with opposites. What's the opposite of a loud noise? A soft whisper. What's the opposite of orange? Blue. And if someone were to put forth to a group of Californians "what's the opposite of a Monday morning when everything looks dour and funky?" the answer might be "a Friday spent strolling the wine tasting rooms of Carmel-by-the-Sea." We'll even put forth that the Carmel answer is the opposite of a lot of things people may not be exactly jazzed about, because it represents so many lovely things. Carmel, vino, probably some snacking, and the promise of a getaway. Yes, indeed, Monday morning, you have found your opposite. And it comes with a map: the Carmel Chamber offers a helpful way to hoof it around one of the most charming cities on the planet.

YES, WE SAID IT: We're all hand-in-hand on that one, right? The cottages and the white sand beach and the smoke-fragrant air? Good. Now the map includes spots like Figge Cellars, Cima Collina, The Cheese Shop, and Tudor Wines. As you would expect with the very walkable burg, all the tasting rooms and eateries are clustered together just off Ocean Avenue. The map, in fact, suggests less of a wine walk than a wine scoot -- that's how close together some of the places are. So, does Carmel and wine tasting represent the happy side of the opposite spectrum for you? Then we'll see you there, pinot in hand, soaking up some of that sweet cottage-y picturesque goodness.

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Girls Getaway

Thu, 10 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Tasting Our Way through Monterey

By: Marcia Frost Thursday, May 10th, 2012

It had been many years since I had been to Monterey, California, a favorite destination when I traveled with my family as a child. This trip, however, was strictly a grown up one. After a few days of traveling around with a representative from the tourist board, I had my friend Tracy join me in Carmel-by-the-Sea for what would turn out to be a fun and unusual weekend getaway.

Tracy picked me up at L’Auberge, a beautiful property downtown, and we dropped our things off at the Lamp Lighter Inn, an adorable set of rooms and cottages closer to the beach. We had the Blue Bird Cottage for the next two days. It was cozy and cute, with a loft upstairs that had twin beds and a king bed downstairs near the electric fireplace.

After we got settled, we headed downtown for the Carmel-by-the-Sea Pet Parade. This city is by far the most pet-friendly I had ever seen in my life and the parade was a testament to that (there were also dogs staying at our hotel, water bowls on every corner, restaurants welcoming dogs and plenty of pet shopping downtown). We watched the parade a bit before going down the block at one of the many winery tasting rooms in the city, Wrath Wines.

I enjoyed their rendition of my favorite grape, sauvignon blanc, but was also surprised to find out how much I liked the 2009 Wrath Syrah Doctor’s Vineyard, made from one of my least favorite grapes, syrah. We bid the tasting room goodbye and did a little shopping before hitting the road for lunch at a property that is known all over the world.

Check any list of the most beautiful golf courses in the world and the chances are Pebble Beach is on there. We had a lunch at Stillwater Bar & Grill at the The Lodge at Pebble Beach, which showed off both the Pacific Ocean and this scenic course. While Tracy enjoyed some of the seafood, I had a great burger and fries before we share a scrumptious peanut butter dessert. It was certainly a place I was glad to experience and recommend a trip to for lunch with a view.

After we got the car back from the valet we decided to hit the road to get a glimpse of this part of Monterey. There was no doubt where we were going as 17-Mile Drive is one of the most famous – and most breathtaking – drives in the world. We took our time and made many stops to check out the scenery and take lots of pictures.

We went back to the Lamp Lighter Inn to change our clothes and then headed down to the Cypress Inn. While “Yappy Hour” was taking place in the front lounge, we headed to the back where we could see all the movie posters from owner Doris Day’s films, as well as the drinks and menu items named after her co-stars and fellow actors.

The cocktail menu opens with the Humphrey Bogart quote, “The problem with the world is that everyone is a few drinks behind.” We didn’t let that happen to us and started with a Mary Pickford (Leblon, Bacardi Superior, pineapple juice, maraschino liqueur and grenadine). It was actually created for the actress at the Hotel Nacional de Cuba in the 1920s and I agreed with Mary that it was a great drink. Before we left the bar area for our dinner table we also tried the French 75 (champagne, lemon juice and sugar), made in honor of Harry’s Bar in Paris – a hangout to the stars.

We enjoyed the food at the Cypress Inn as much as the drinks. We started with a roasted vegetable soup. I had the Penne Sicilian with pasta, sausage and onions in a tomato sauce, while Tracy loved the scallops. Other menu choices that caught our eye were the Moroccan Chicken, Lamp Lollipops and Braised Short Ribs. The choice of dessert was an easy one, though, and the crème brulee was wonderful.

We called it a night after dinner and got a good night’s sleep before enjoying breakfast in the Lamp Lighter’s courtyard. We were actually the only ones without dogs with us, but they were all very well behaved and we enjoyed a conversation with visitors from all over the U.S. and Canada. The Lamp Lighter also has an evening wine and cheese hour so it’s a good place to get to know other people (and pets).

Before leaving the area, Tracy and I enjoyed a long walk along Carmel Beach. While the towns in Monterey may have changed a bit over the years, I still felt like I was on a childhood visit when I looked out at the Pacific Ocean.

After many years as one of the top tennis writers in the country, Marcia Frost now devoting most of her time to travel writing, with a focus on food, wine and spirits. She has her own blog at WineAndSpiritsTravel.com and does weekly columns for Inspirato on Sonoma and Paris (two locations she visits often). Marcia also freelances for many other outlets, including Yahoo!; AOL; Michigan Avenue; Rum Bum; Los Angeles Confidential; Travel, Food & Drink; and Air Tran’s Go! Magazine. She has been contributing to Girls’ Getaway since 2010. For more information on Marcia, visit her website MarciaFrost.com.

Read this article at GirlsGetaway.com

Conde Naste Traveler: Carmel makes list of Top 10 U.S. Cities

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Condé Nast Traveler:
2011 Readers' Choice Awards

Readers' Choice Awards 2011

Here they are, the final winners sifted from more than 8 million votes cast in our annual Readers' Choice Awards survey. These awards reflect the combined opinions of 28,876 Condé Nast Traveler readers rating the cities, islands, and hotels they visited in the past year, and the airlines and cruise ships they traveled with. For its range and depth, the Readers' Choice Awards are a unique and trusted source of advice globally, and that is thanks to America's most discerning and demanding travelers—you.

Top 10 United States Cities
1.Charleston, SC, 84.7
2.San Francisco, CA, 83.7
3.Santa Fe, NM, 83.0
4.Chicago, IL, 82.2
5.Honolulu, HI, 80.9
6.New York, NY, 80.8
7.Savannah, GA, 79.1
8.Carmel, CA, 78.5
9.Seattle, WA, 78.4
10.Boston, MA, 78.0

For Complete Article, click here: http://www.concierge.com/tools/travelawards/readerschoice/cities

Los Angeles Times - Monterey Peninsula's Bargain Hotels, Food, and Activities.

Sun, 28 Aug 2011 04:00:00 GMT

-Click here for complete Los Angeles Times article-

Monterey Peninsula's bargain hotels, food and activities
Penny pinchers can appreciate quaint rooms, good food and simple activities.

By Rosemary McClure, Special to the Los Angeles Times

August 16, 2011, 5:16 p.m.

Reporting from Monterey, Calif.—

Clint Eastwood knows how to set a scene on screen or at Mission Ranch, his strikingly handsome hotel and restaurant in Carmel.

The hotel, a historic property, has a multimillion dollar view of the sea and beautiful grounds to match. Magenta bougainvillea spills from balconies, flowering pots decorate porches, huge cypress trees shade buildings and lawns. You'd expect a room to cost $500 a night or more.

So how about $120 a night?..... (Read more)

Edmonton Journal - Carmel redefines dog-friendly vacations

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Click here for COMPLETE article on EdmontonJournal.com

CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA, Calif -- This was not a typical girls’ trip.

My sister-in-law Lisa and I were going on vacation, not with our daughters but with Daisy and Misty -- our dogs.

Daisy is Lisa’s 10-year-old miniature poodle; Misty is my 5-year-old Lhaso Apso-poodle mix. Both have gone on long car rides, camping trips and visits to Lisa’s vacation home in Angel’s Camp. But this was to be the first trip designed specifically with them in mind...... (read more)

Smart Meeting Magazine - Inspire with Natural Muse

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Click here for COMPLETE article on Smartmeetings.com

Destination: Monterey/Carmel/Santa Cruz

Inspire with a Natural Muse

Monterey, Carmel and Santa Cruz provide the setting

By Louise M. Felsher, CMP, CMM

California’s Monterey Bay is vibrant, dramatic and wildly diverse, and its raw natural beauty has both influenced and attracted eminent writers, artists, musicians, architects and scientists, as well as provided a welcoming environment for wine grape varietals and ethereal Monarch butterflies. Nobel laureate, Pulitzer recipient, novelist, travel writer and Monterey Bay native, John Steinbeck wrote, “I’ve lived in good climate, and it bores the hell out of me. I like weather rather than climate.”.....

Coastal Living Magazine - Mother's Day Weekend Getaway

Sat, 07 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Click here for complete article on coastalliving.com

" Carmel-by-the-Sea - If you've never been to Carmel-by-the Sea, California, picture a quiet English village along a rugged Pacific coastline. On the Monterey Peninsula just a two-hour drive from San Francisco, this seaside enclave is as charming as its name. Quaint, moss-covered cottaged, a budding art scene, and streets lined with boutiques and restaurants make this town a relaxing escape. "

Skywest Magazine - Monterey Peninsula: Inspiration For The Ages

Sat, 07 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Click here to view complete article in issue of Skywest Magazine (Carmel is on page 8)

"Monterey Peninsula: Inspiration For The Ages - ...pick up the official visitor guide at the Carmel Chamber of Commerce. The concise handbook makes it easy to uncover hidden treasures."

TripAdvisor.com - Top 25 Travel Destinations in the United States

Thu, 05 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Click here for complete article on TripAdvisor.com

The first thing you need to know about Carmel: Clint Eastwood used to be the mayor, so don’t come here if you’re a hooligan. But if you’re after a romantic getaway to a seaside, art-filled village, Carmel might be perfect for you. You can even bring your dog—Carmel’s hotels, restaurants and galleries are remarkably Fido-friendly.

Departures.com - Top 10 Perfect Weekend Getaways

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Click here for complete article on departures.com

From Pasadena to Paso Robles, some of our favorite weekend escapes just a drive away from L.A. Sunny Los Angeles will always be an ideal vacation spot for its year-round beach weather, palm-fringed boulevards, inventive restaurants and cultural offerings like the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, which debuted at the $54 million, Renzo Piano–designed Resnick Pavilion last fall. But sometimes even locals need to get away for a weekend escape, which is easy when you have California as your backyard and everything from a laid-back beach getaway to a food-and-wine weekend to a rugged clifftop retreat is all within driving distance of the city. Head three or four hours north to Paso Robles for wine, cheese and olive oil tastings, and farther up the coast, Big Sur’s exquisite Post Ranch Inn offers dramatic ocean vistas. Just 80 miles north of L.A. is Ojai, a sleepy artists’ colony that’s the perfect place to swing a nine-iron or while away the afternoon poolside. Closer to the city, Pasadena’s Huntington Botanical Gardens features more than 14,000 plant varieties, along with an afternoon tea service in the rose garden. And to the south, in Laguna Beach, spend the weekend exploring hidden coves or gallery hopping.

Carmel Chamber of Commerce News Newswire

A Weekend in Carmel

LA Weekends: Carmel

Basil - first green restaurant - Monterey Bay

Basil wins first green restaurant certification in the Monterey Bay area

Relax, Carmel Valley Style

Top Five Ways to Relax, Carmel Valley Style

Big Sur billed US’s Most Spectacular Drive

Coasting in California

Big Sur gets billed as the US’s most spectacular drive - as well it should

On Cannery Row

Where the 1% escape

Wild things

Among giants

Explore the Central Coast

On a World-Class Road Trip

Walk redwood groves, drive Big Sur, and tour Hearst Castle on this Central Coast winner.

Kids And Dogs Welcome

Getaway Guide: Kids And Dogs Welcome At Carmel-By-The-Sea

Getting There

Where to Stay

The Vagabond’s House

Pine Inn

What To Do

Carmel Walks

Carmel Beach

Point Lobos State Reserve

Earthbound Farm

Where To Eat

PortaBella

Flaherty’s Seafood Grill

Carmel Food Tours Review

A Good And Tasty Walk Enhanced Not Spoiled

Top Restaurants, Cheese, Wine And Chocolate Part Of Recommended Town Tour

Eat Your Way Through Carmel

Sip in Monterey Wine Country

So Many Places to Sip in Monterey Wine Country, So Little Time

Coast Hopping

Coast Hopping North to South

Escape this Valentine’s Day

Escape to Monterey County, California This Valentine’s Day Weekend

Wine and Dine Your Sweetheart:

Rest and Relax:

Explore and Discover:

Dog-Friendly Carmel

Sip and Stroll through Dog-Friendly Carmel

Video: Astounding Eats

Astounding Eats Get Better at Aubergine Restaurant

Grand Dame Remerges

Carmel’s Grand Dame Remerges After Facelift

Wine Enthusiast: Best Wine Travel 2013

10 Best Wine Travel Destinations 2013

From classic regions to lesser-known corners, our editorsselect this year’s best in wine, food and cultural adventure.

Cozy Up

Cozy up to Carmel this Year

Get There

Stay

Dine

Play

Wine Country

Monterey County Wine Country

Stimulating Relaxation

Stimulating Relaxation in Big Sur, Carmel, Monterey and Pacific Grove

Old Hollywood

Finding Old Hollywood Along the Coast

Making for Monterey or the Central Coast?Discover spots with a starry past.

Respite from Holiday Bustle

Carmel offers respite from holiday bustle

Carmel-by-the-Glass

Reflections on First-Ever Carmel-by-the-Glass by Rich Pepe and Local Wineries

Bonita Estero Magazine: Make Your Way to Monterey County

Make Your Way to Monterey County

Wine, Dine, and Take in Spectacular Scenery on the California Coast

Culinary Carmel

The Californian: Carmel Wine Walk well worth its $50 price

Carmel Wine Walk well worth its $50 price

Mark Manzoni in his Carmel tasting room. / Elaine Hesser/For Off 68

Written by

Elaine Hesser

For Off 68

From classic regions to lesser-known corners, our editors
select this year’s best in wine, food and cultural adventure.

Making for Monterey or the Central Coast?
Discover spots with a starry past.

Condé Nast Traveler:
2011 Readers' Choice Awards