WinoTripping: Carmel Valley Wine Country

Winecountrytripping's top picks for a perfect weekend in the Carmel Valley in Monterey Country

Posted by Rich

Twelve miles east from the beautiful town of Carmel-by-the-Sea on the Monterey Coast, just off Highway 1, lies the hidden wonders of the Carmel Valley wine country. A perfect weekend retreat for Californians everywhere, and a great alternative to the mobs in Napa Valley.

What makes this place really cool is that the village of Carmel Valley has several wine tasting rooms all within walking distance of each other, and within walking distance to your hotel, (if you take our advice on where to stay. More on that in a minute). The small village also has many dining options, as well, so you'll hardly need to leave the area, or even get in your car, once you're there.

That said, there is plenty nearby to keep you busy if you do want to just in the car, including several great wineries, parks, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey and the Aquarium, the Big Sur coast, all with easy coastal access (read: beaches), making this location one of the best wine trips around.

The Lodge

Miss Melody and I found the Carmel Valley Lodge via google search and have stayed there twice. We recommend it very highly for it's comfort, friendly staff, and perfect location, right on Carmel Valley road, a short walk from the tasting rooms and restaurants. We stayed in a "Fireplace Guestroom", which is very spacious, and includes a small kitchenette, a patio or deck, depending on whether you're on the first or second floor, and the awesome wood-burning stove. They even provide a small s'mores-making kit, with graham crackers, marshmallows, chocolate, and long iron skewers for toasting your marshmallows.