Review of Bernardus Lodge, by The TI Review Team

Ten minutes' drive inland from the jewel-like town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, nestled among vineyards that produce award winning-wines, Bernardus Lodge is an elegant enfilade of low-slung adobe buildings set against a hillside boasting picture-perfect views of the oak-and-poplar studded Carmel Valley. Easygoing California elegance pervades the experience, from the cosy sitting areas (with overstuffed velour sofas, settees and armchairs placed around massive fireplaces - and complimentary wine and cheese tastings) to the friendly but flawlessly professional staff.

Besides its world class winery (its Cabernet blend has made the Wine Spectator "100 List" for roughly a decade), Bernardus Lodge is home to Marinus, one of the Central Coast's best restaurants (and an attraction in itself - make sure you book ahead). The spa offers an array of indoor and outdoor treatments (taken in the privacy of walled gardens scented by lavender, thyme and rosemary); there are tennis courts (with a pro on hand for lessons), croquet and bocce games on the lawn, and a swimming pool and full-service fitness centre. Within five miles are the championship golf courses at Quail Lodge and Carmel Valley Ranch - Bernardus' concierge will book your tee time - as well as Garland Ranch State Park, with miles of gorgeous hiking paths amid eucalyptus, pine and oak forests.

Undeniably luxurious (if a bit on the bland side), the rooms are the epitome of California style - that mix of rustic touches (whitewashed wood-beamed ceilings, stone fireplaces) and hybrid of English, Provencal and Spanish decorative elements (chintz blinds, heavy wood armoires, mirrored dressers). Most share the same gorgeous view south across the valley to the hills of the Ventana Wilderness (not that the garden view, a riot of wild herbs and flora, disappoints). Incredibly cosy, down-swathed beds and enormous baths in stone, wood and marble (note the two-person tubs) get high marks.