Some have larger yards and outdoor living areas than others. This card is also incredibly rewarding for travel purchases, helping you rack up a ton of Membership Rewards points for your next award trip. If you're arriving by air, the closest airport is Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), about a 20-minute drive from the resort. Carmel Ranch Inn is ok. Debora cares a lot about ranch members and shows that by always being available to listen but at the same time bases her decisions on what is best for the success of CVR. We have enjoyed every minute of time spent here but during the last 5 or so years CVR has grown and improved by leaps and bounds. The stay was either free of very cheap because it was one of those timeshare come-ons where you have to spend an hour listening to their sales pitch. We had a a lovely stay at the Highlands Inn, pre-Hyatt days, and before it had deteriorated so much; dinner at the restaurant was outstanding. Preferred Pricing to Refuge, Award-Winning Relaxation Spa. Luckily there is a sucker born every minute so this place will not spend the money and upgrade . I mean: where else can you find yourself swinging and putting through vineyards, lavender fields, and oak groves, while occasionally bumping into wild turkey and deer? Travis McCabe is a Director, Membership at Carmel Valley Ranch based in Carmel, California. And in the heart of Carmel Valley is the aptly named Carmel Valley Ranch. Most helpful comments ( as chosen by the OMAAT community ). Steps away from 20 wine tasting rooms, fine dining and corky shops and art galleries. Yes, the view is great but the room is not. This pool is set with four lanes for our lap swimmers. The trip takes about two and a half hours. And a nice touch from the Ventana - when we entered the room, there was a bottle of wine, some Ventana hats, and luggage tags along with a nice note apologizing for our original reservation being disrupted. But at the end of the day, Carmel Valley Ranch is ideal for one demographic in particular: families. That's been the case for many years. Earn 5X Membership Rewards Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. Many of the resort's activities take place here, so keep this in mind if you are scheduled for a class -- you'll need to allow a significant amount of time to get there. Will keep this hotel off my list. Pro tip #1: if the weather is fine, order the "Picnic Dinner" and eat at the picnic tables nestled amid the grapevines at the Carmel Valley Ranch. Most of our time is spent at the beautiful tennis facility with the Peter Burwash team of professionals, Peter, Chris and Jon. But the rooms are obviously nothing to write home about. I really wanted some time for some rest and relaxation without having to leave the room if I did not want to; after all the view is spectacular! Why is Covid affecting bike rentals? World-class Equestrian Center. Hyatt Carmel Highland is known for their restaurant with amazing view especially during sunset time. AND FUN. - hotel called me on the third day of my stay to try and get me to return for a timeshare presentation and recommended that I come on an important day, like my birthday; this happened while I was, in fact, celebrating my birthday and not enjoying the amenities I could peek into the restaurant which was closed it had incredible views and Im sure it would be lovely when the hotel is usually open, but that wasnt the case. We only allow one event at a time at the Ranch . ), How One Hyatt Is Cracking Down On Club Lounge Abusers, Please view our advertising policy page for additional details about our partners, I figured since my mom and I were were flying all the way from Florida, we might as well spend five days on the ground, and the Alila Ventana only had award availability for three nights, Carmel is such a cute town, and this hotel is only a short drive away, Since we were flying out of SFO, this would make our travel day a bit easier on the way back, and would mean we wouldnt have to leave the Alila Ventana Big Sur super early, My friend Matthew from Live and Lets Fly, The hotel was still selling at least two standard suites (the most that will show through the Hyatt app) at the time of check-in, but I didnt fight back too much, My stay still hasnt posted well over a week later, and neither have my bonus points for not being offered breakfast, Couldnt they at least have a limited room service menu, at least over certain hours, that can be ordered from? As stated in the article the rooms for for $500 per night. I felt it was just as dumpy then. This was my go-to spot for a post-hike soak. Team@TheHeinrichTeam.com, Copyright Heinrich | Legal | Contact Us Cut them some slack. We recommend Hatha classes for students who want to slow down, intensely deepen your practice and rejuvenate. It's visually stunning - if you like the valley. $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. We were assigned room 526. Get discounts on dining & resort stays, enjoy unlimited golf to a Spa Aiyana treatment and much more with our spa, family and golf memberships! "Youre just a few miles south of some of the most gorgeous coastline youll see anywhere in North America, and youre just a few miles south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, which is one of the most charming towns in California, in my opinion.". Standing, seated and inverted postures will be taught. Do you mean a few miles north of some of the most gorgeous coastline? If it wasn't for a call I made to the property, I would not have known this prior to arrival. Spanning over 500 acres, Carmel Valley Ranch feels like a town within a town. Love the salmon, taco truck and salads. The views are incredible and the restaurant food was actually very good. Dear JKD,Thank you for providing an insightful members insight of review of Carmel Valley Ranch. Ive stayed at a few places that apparently decided that if they were getting gutted in 12-18 months it didnt make any sense to bother with any more maintenance. I could write a book about the delicious food that comes out of these restaurants but I will keep it as brief as possible. The living room included plenty of seating and a large dining and work area with vaulted ceilings. However, at night, I found both the living room and bedroom a bit dark even with all the lighting turned on. I originally thought to spent a couple of nights there, now I felt very lucky that I did not decide to stay there at the end! Your email address will not be published. The experience was probably our worst at any hotel, adjusting for the expectations. Like Spa Aiyana, the spacious suites feature the same soothing palette, toasty fireplaces, and eco-chic vibes. By the way, the hotel seemed quite disorganized. Repeated use of the Refuge Thermal Cycle soothes aches and pains, increases metabolism, and boosts the immune system. Our members hold a special place in my heart and your review inspires us to continue to aspire for greatness. You can currently buy points and miles with up to a 100% bonus but should you? Be awesome and spend a few hours hiking the entire perimeter of the park, about nine miles. On the one hand, this allows the resort to have expanded facilities and activities and earn additional revenue during the shoulder season. It was so relaxing, and we loved that we could have such a well-rounded experience right there on the property. IME, even with services, the sole reason for the cost is the view. Our small quaint club has blossomed into a vibrant and diverse community with so much to offer. But its my understanding that the hotel was almost at capacity. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu. We eat here at least once a month, it's nice that there is a rotating Blue Plate special at $10 - which has to be the best bargain around. Its the oldest running business in town and doles out gloriously big, puffy, and chewy pretzels.). The sink was simply in the room near a frosted window, so had no privacy from the rest of the room. The Hyatt Regency in Monterey is a fine Cat 4 property with a convenient location, and I've always been treated well there. I would expect that the multimillion renovation will commence in the near future. During peak season, cash rates at the property can start well over $1,000 for a base Vineyard Studio. Trails are well marked. Just look for the lovely woman with the biggest smile at the Ranchthat will be Debora! - my tub didn't empty; I called about this and hotel responded by removing the stopper. 11/30/2022 7:57 PM. Essentially the property is split between being a Hyatt Residence Club (in other words, a timeshare), and being a hotel. Stay connected with the latest travel, aviation, and credit card news. The deal also came with $100 of any other expenses on the property, so we used it at the restaurant. The main problem with this 100 year old property has been the ownership. Some of the mid level hotels are downright terrible for the price. And all my points with Hyatt mysteriously disappeared with no explanation or resolution. That's just weird. When I visited in July, during the pandemic, they had some common sense changes (no housekeepers in the room), but "made up" for what couldn't be done with lots of great extras. Copyright 2019-2023, Carmel Valley Athletic Club. But the best part of Carmel Valley Ranch is the grounds. Get up to $300 back per calendar year on the Equinox+ digital fitness app, or eligible Equinox club memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card. Theres also over 60 horses in the equestrian center, and guided trail rides for horse lovers of all levels. Three dining venues. I stayed here around 15 years ago. We then went to our room, and about an hour later I received a text stating that my villa was ready (rather than my room), so I figured that maybe they had found a room to upgrade us to. S'more kits are available every evening and were popular with both kids and adults alike. This is basically saying this hotel is better than, for example, the Grand Hyatt Tokyo. But were you really surprised? Follow directions to CA-1 S, then turn onto Carmel Valley Road, or G16. Enrollment required. Clinics and lessons are valuable, fun and well delivered. Carmel Valley Ranch, Quail Lodge & Golf Club, and The Preserve Golf Club are the top choices for the area. It is April of 2022! Next, theres the complete lack of services at this hotel. (Photo by Chris Dong/The Points Guy), The corral at Carmel Valley Ranch. The main problem with this 100 year old property has been the ownership. Coconut shrimp was all batter. We have a lot of construction crews/contractors that go spend their money across the street in the gas station because we do not offer any drinks / evening food. It takes a fair, experienced, gracious and dedicated membership director to keep everyone happy and that is exactly what she does. From my balcony, I could see the parking lot. @Ric LOL Nice job rubbing it in! Our small quaint club has blossomed into a vibrant and diverse community with so much to offer. We've been upgraded to it a few times, though not at all in the past few years. If you enjoy your golf experience in Carmel Valley Ranch, you might consider being a golf member. Made to order omelets and fresh bacon / sausage / parfaits with some new options every month. Improve earnings, maximize rewards and track progress toward dream trips. So awesome. I think the nicest thing about it was the fireplace, which had the wood all set up so all we had to do was light a match. Granted that isn't as easy with restrictions but they all miss the hotel boom in the 2018-2019 economy when everyone was travelling and would pay top dollar to stay in subpar hotel. Too bad the restaurant was closed as it is 5*. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Compare the cost in points or miles to cash, and see which option is best. Your testimonial is truly heartwarming and goes beyond the usual lesson in sports and service. I got the impression this is a playground for Silicon Valley engineers with young families. While you can drive to each section of guest rooms to limit the amount of movement required, there are paved, accessible paths that connect all rooms to the main lodge. I truly believe the membership offerings on our 500-acre playground are one of a kind. Your best bet is drive up towards Mendocino and stay at Heritage House Resort and spa. Why? Find Us: 12171 World Trade Dr, San Diego, CA 92128. I found the bed to be comfortable for sleep but the pillows to be a bit flat. The sprawling property has dozens of activities on offer at any given time: Guests can choose from goat cheese and whiskey tastings, three pools, garden tours, meet and greets with the propertys chickens and goats, beekeeping tours, archery, falconry, ax-throwing, hiking, golfing, tennis, a Peloton at the gym, spa treatments and more. More, Dear Wannabinhawaii,First of all, I would like to thank you for your loyalty to Carmel Valley Ranch. It too was sold to new owners last year (different ones than the Highlands) and the new owners have just completed the long-overdue multimillion dollar renovation of that property. An even better collection of views is just up the road at Point Lobos State Park, which you should spend the day hiking. Modifications and variations of poses are given to adjust difficulty based on individual needs. Soups and appetizers are great too. The most disappointing thing was the complete lack of maintenance of this property, which I wouldnt find to be reasonable even at a three star hotel. All the desks to assist guests were occupied when I arrived. It was popular before the start of the pandemic and even more popular after the pandemic. Such a dismal, overrated place (and uber-pretentious when we stayed there) at least you had good weather. 4. In closing I want to acknowledge a couple of points that people may bring up. How do you in good conscience sell a room for $500 per night with literally no services? For more information about Refuge or to make a reservation, please call (831) 620-7360. Yes, the bathroom is atrocious! The Local's Resort: Tennis, Fitness, Friends, Fun, Monday - Friday 5:30 am - 10:00 pm. Heres the name of this property, which is a mouthful: Hyatt Carmel Highlands, Overlooking Big Sur Coast & Highlands Inn, A Hyatt Residence Club. Proceed about a mile up the road (and yes, it's almost all uphill) to the lodge, the central location for the resort that includes check-in, the activities desk, the main restaurant, pool and spa. This fun Hatha Vinyasa Yoga class welcomes beginning to intermediate levels. CVRManager, Managing Director at Carmel Valley Ranch the Unbound Collection By Hyatt, responded to this review. When considering if you want to live in Carmel Valley Ranch, home searchers sometimes will wonder if it makes sense to live in Quail or Carmel Valley Ranch, since they have some similarities. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). you could literally open up a roach motel and charge $250 a night and people would happily come in their droves. $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one select qualifying airline. Most of our time is spent at the beautiful tennis facility with the Peter Burwash team of professionals, Peter, Chris and Jon. Especially if you booked using HRC timeshare points, which is a great value. Falling asleep to ocean sounds was the promise; falling asleep to the highway is the reality. It takes a fair, experienced, gracious and dedicated membership director to keep everyone happy and that is exactly what she does. Please let us know how we can make your next visit personal, thoughtful, and gracious.Warmest regards,Giuseppe LamaManaging DirectorCarmel Valley Ranch. Carmel Valley Ranch is the place to take one lesson or a series of lessons from one of the best golf instructors ever! - notepad ran out of paper and wasn't replaced, pen didn't work As I wrote yesterday, Im usually a Hyatt cheerleader, and I dont remember the last time I was disappointed by a Hyatt, because the brand is good at managing expectations. Plus, your own feed of TPG content. Needless to say, I did not purchase a unit there. Requested and got upgraded to a room with privacy and an unobscured view of the ocean as Globalist. During a recent stay at Ventana, my wife and I made the trek up to Carmel for the plant-based dinner tasting menu (this was prior to Ventana going all-inclusive). No matter how you decide to spend your day at Carmel Valley Ranch, though, rest is requisite. Can't they just spray some disinfectant on the bikes and let people use it? Just look for the lovely woman with the biggest smile at the Ranchthat will be Debora! Not excellent, but decent, and the ambiance was nice. This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. What a piece of garbage for a top tier Hyatt. If the only thing you want from a hotel is sleeping and a view, it's really not bad. Now if they had put you in the Point Lobos Suite cottage, located below the main lobby, you might have had a somewhat different review on rooms. Another might be the wonderful restaurant and bar. On the other hand I've stayed there in 2014 and pretty much your photos look the same as then. The hotel I work for now is still fixing water issues from 3 months ago and is dragging their feet to reopen the bar area. Once Oracle departs the area, I expect it will close. Bernardus Lodge and Spa: Wonderful Anniversary Overnight! Service 4.4. Average sandwich is about $15, which compares favorably with most of the golf clubs around here .. sandwiches come with fries, salad or fruit salad and nice side order of pickled vegetables (my favorite are the onions !). Come for the views, stay for the well, maybe dont stay. I paid around $500.00 per night. The views are the same, if not even better, and can enjoy amenities like an in-room Jacuzzi/hot tub, not available at the more expensive Hyatt. Refuge provides the ultimate relaxation experience through the use of our Refuge Thermal Cycle: heat up, cool down, relax and explore. The restaurant was open for room service, with a pretty sweet Globalist breakfast spread delivered to the room. It is outdoors so what is the big problem here? Our points-obsessed staff uses a plethora of credit cards on a daily basis. I had my eye on the Hyatt Carmel Highlands for a couple years, and finally stayed on a Cat 1-7 cert during Mother's Day weekend 2019. Just when you think the Ranch is at its bestmore improvements are made!The same goes for the valet team when parking or retrieving cars up at Valley Kitchen. Your best bet is drive up towards Mendocino and stay at Heritage House Resort and spa. I do not. I don't know if I agree with this statement. To better understand why this hotel is so poorly maintained, you need to know about the owner, Interval Leisure Group (Miami). I wonder if its about to be renovated? This great work is lead by Andy. This is shocking. And by then, it was time to check out. Wine and cheese reception included. But, where should you stay? The property has a gated entrance when you first arrive. I honestly told her I thought it was a dump. Hike up the Huff 'N' Puff and Mucklehead Trails to the ridge above the ranch for spectacular views. Membership (Carmel Valley Athletic Club) Membership Invest in your health. There was no tub, just a shower that was so small I couldn't bend over to soap my legs (at 6'2", I am tall, but not anything unusual). You will not find a better team of tennis professionals anywhere! So Ill let the pictures speak for themselves, since theres nothing else to talk about. Good job on calling this hotel out, Ben. It's a shame the restaurant was closed. My Ranch Suite was spacious and well equipped, although I wouldn't quite call it luxurious. Our tasty recipes are all centered around greens, lean protein and maximum flavor, so you never feel deprived. Please view our advertising policy page for additional details about our partners. The owners didn't see any reason to even refresh the rooms as people were willing to pay for the view. While we do try to list all the best miles and points deals, the site does not include all card companies or credit card offers available in the marketplace. The grounds are beautiful with lush oak trees and . Id consider going to the hotels restaurant at some point down the road for the great views, but I wouldnt otherwise consider staying here again, unless something changed significantly. Thats the first time Ive seen that. Carmels most famous resident (and former mayor) Clint Eastwood embodies what the local, well-heeled crowd adores about their zip code: discreet wealth. I got a text saying our room was ready, at which point I picked up my key. Is there something Im missing about this hotel? The outlet in the bathroom is pulling away from the wall next to a water source (the sink). Near the entrance was a Keurig coffee machine and two bottles of water, which were literally the only on-property food or beverage options available. I do not follow their logic. Prices for lots range from $450,000 to $2,395,000; there are currently 11 homes for sale, ranging from $4,200,000 to $8,999,000. 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Copyright Heinrich | Legal | Contact Us Cut them some slack for more information about Refuge to... Would expect that the multimillion renovation will commence in the equestrian center, see! Fun Hatha Vinyasa Yoga class welcomes beginning to intermediate levels playground for Silicon Valley with! Room and bedroom a bit flat acres, Carmel Valley is the view born... Wannabinhawaii, First of all levels their droves much your photos look the same soothing palette, toasty fireplaces and. To offer the big problem here exactly what she does students who want slow... $ 100 of any other expenses on the property, I would n't quite call it.... And chewy pretzels. ) hotel, adjusting for the well, maybe dont stay who to! Room with privacy and an unobscured view of the day, Carmel Valley is the named! Fair, experienced, gracious and dedicated membership Director to keep everyone happy that. Property, so had no privacy from the rest of the park, which a... 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