Carmel Valley Ranch is located on the sunny side of the Monterey Peninsula, surrounded by nearly 500 acres of secluded woodland and landscaped gardens. The resort's mild climate encourages year-round outdoor activity and the facility-rich resort offers fine dining and a luxurious spa.

The facilities

On-site diversions include a newly renovated championship golf course, award-winning tennis programmes on 9 hard and clay courts, fitness room and winding trails for hiking and running. The Pete Dye-designed golf course has earned an impressive reputation thanks to holes that wind through vineyards, lavender fields and old-growth oak groves and present tactical challenges and playability alike. Instructional packages are available for golf or tennis players of every skill level. The resort is also convenient to area attractions from whale watching and wine tasting to boutique shopping and amazing beaches.

The spacious spa Aiyana offers three VIP double spa treatment suites with fireplaces, eight deluxe spa treatment rooms, and a manicure and pedicure salon. The Lodge Dining Room at Carmel Valley Ranch serves inspired dishes infused with locally grown ingredients and produce, creating a platform for a uniquely Californian twist. Enjoy your meal in the comfortable dining room or savour meal on the pool patio overlooking the foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains.

The rooms

Newly renovated and elegant suites offer cosy, modern furnishings and cathedral ceilings. Private terraces and travertine fireplaces come standard, as do decadent limestone bathrooms with superb separate soaking tubs.  Modern amenities like Blu-ray players and iPod docks make the rooms especially chic and relaxing.