Bernardus Lodge, Carmel Valley


Hotel. Bernadus Lodge can be found deep into the oaks and vineyards of beautiful Carmel Valley near the Santa Lucia Mountains. While guests feel cozy and at home in front of beautiful fireplaces there is also a sense of simple elegance as this wine country resort rivals top European hotels. Each of the fifty-seven home-like rooms on the property embrace luxurious amenities such as complimentary wine and cheese bars and fresh flowers to welcome guests as well as French doors that open to eye-catching views of the surrounding mountain and garden landscapes.

Wine. Ben Pon, owner of Bernadus Lodge, strives to produce red wine to compete with the superior quality of wine found in the Bourdeaux region. The art of wine-making is practiced on Bernardus estate’s 220 acres of vineyards on Featherbow Ranch and Marinus, in a “deep or hidden water “region of Carmel Valley called Cachagua. Traditional wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay are cultivated in oak barrels and tanks made specifically for Bernardus by French manufactures in Bourdeaux and Burgundy in attempt for Bernardus Vineyards to reach the next level of accomplishment in American wine-making.

Dining. Marinus Restaurant at Bernadus Lodge is a continuing sensation in the Carmel Valley area as it has received uncountable awards and recognitions by Zagat and Wine Spectator for their sensational menu items paired with the vineyard’s selection of wine. Chef Cal Stamenov continues to impress guests in the Euro bistro setting of Marinus, including at the Chef’s Table, located right in front of the kitchen. In this particular dining area, guests can watch as he prepares menu items with only the finest ingredients and help inspire him with welcomed suggestions.