February 3, 2018
Hotel Feature: Rancho Valencia, California
By Annie Chambers
Location: Rancho Valencia sits on 45-acres lush of garden and olive groves, nestled just inland of Del Mar. From San Diego airport it’s roughly one hour, 1 to 1.5 hours from from John Wayne (SNA) and from LAX it’s between 2.5 to 4 hours (depending on traffic).
Once you get off the 5 freeway and start driving, even just one mile, it becomes more rural. As you wind up the road through the gates to Rancho Valencia you feel a sense of calm.
Association: Relais & Châteaux
Personal Faves:
–The hacienda-style casitas offer loads of space, sophisticated decor and outdoor patios. My mom, dad and I had separate beds all in one room. I was on the pull-out couch and had a great night of sleep.
–The adobe-style fireplaces are extremely cozy for indoor chilly nights and the patios are perfect for daytime lounging in the sun.
–The hacienda is a 5,000 sq .ft. guesthouse with private pool and 3 gorgeous rooms and full kitchen. Although, the chef is on hand to cook a meal on the outdoor BBQ, if requested. I couldn’t get enough of this gorgeous home and was ready to move in!
–Three Porsches are available to guests to take out for a spin along the Pacific coast. My mom and I took out the Boxster. It was such a thrill to rev the engine and take in the breeze with the top down.
–The yoga sanctuary is set on the water and the main fitness center offers myriad wellness classes. My mom took every class possible in our 24 hours there. Spin, pilates, yoga, you name it!
–The Pony Room is amazing for people watching and gourmet craft cocktails and bites. They have a famous burger, tacos, lobster nachos, and healthier salads. If you’re in the mood for a margarita, they have eight options. It’s fun to sit inside or pop outside onto the terrace by the fire pits.
–I’m a sucker for tubs and bath products, so when I saw this deep-soak tub with a TV and Natura Bissé bubble bath I knew I was in heaven.
Room Types:
Suites
Even entry-level rooms at Rancho Valencia are plenty big at 900 sq. ft. The vaulted ceilings and sunken living room add to the homely feel. Each suite comes with an outdoor patio and garden area, deep soak tub and shower, as well as the choice of King or two Queen beds and a pullout sleeper sofa.
Luxury Villas
They offer fully equipped kitchens with Viking appliances. Hand-painted tiles and custom-made furniture accent each of the three master bedrooms. There is an outdoor grill and 3.5 bathrooms making this plenty of space for a family, or several couples/friends.
Private Hacienda
3 king bed suites come with separate entry and bath, private pool, and wood burning fireplaces. I loved the full kitchen with Viking appliances and dining alcove. This is perfect for an intimate honeymoon or small retreat, or friends getaway. The private pool and backyard are is one of the best features for complete seclusion and relaxation. Quite a few celebs have been know to hide out here.
Amenities:
(Guests can play on the following courses The Farms, Aviara, Torrey Pines, La Costa and Del Mar Country Club).
Dining:
Veladora serves three meals per day and is a fine dining establishment. The breakfast buffet is beyond generous with many healthy options available..
The Pony Room offers seasonal craft cocktails and gourmet pub food. Either sit inside and eavesdrop on local housewives convos or head outside to the fire pits that overlook the croquet lawn. If you’re in the mood for tequila, they have 100 brands.
The Wine Room is where I want to host my intimate gathering in San Diego. Enclosed in brick, this underground wine cellar/entertainment venue is accented with leather chairs and one long table.
Virtuoso Amenities:
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily full breakfast, for up to two in room guests (maximum $40 credit per person)
- $100 USD Resort or Hotel credit, (Not valid in Sheridan, the resort’s boutique. Not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
