Surprise visit to CVR — in-depth review My wife and I, along with our 2 children (ages 3 and 1) took a day trip to Big Sur, and decided to book a room at Carmel Valley Ranch on our way home as we were all exhausted. Admittedly, I’m a bit of a hotel snob, so I was a bit nervous booking a room at CVR for the first time. We didn’t book ahead, but they had a room available for us when we got there. The check-in process took a bit longer than expected as they had to have the room inspected by a supervisor before we went in (understandably), and they upgraded our room to a suite free of charge for the wait. The room was a little smaller than I expected for a suite, so next time we visit, I’ll probably go for one of the larger suites. With that said, the room was still nice. We didn’t have much of a view (essentially just some trees and the valley), but the ambiance was very relaxing nonetheless. What a lot of other reviews don’t mention, too, is that if your room doesn’t have a view, the pools, dining areas, etc. have great views. There was an indoor/outdoor fireplace which was perfect for the chilly evening on the swing outside. I have to say that was an awesome feature, especially if you’re here with a significant other. The following morning, we decided to spend 4-5 hours exploring the ranch. I have seen a lot of reviews regarding the price, but when you take into account the size of the property and everything included with this price, it begins to make sense as you spend time on the property. The night of our arrival, my wife and I went to dinner while the kids stayed in the room with grandpa. Our family is plant-based, and CVR had plenty of clearly marked vegan/vegetarian options. I’m not talking about a side salad; they actually had some really solid options for us. We’re still craving their spring rolls. Additionally, they have their own sea salt, honey, cheeses, wines, etc. made right there on the ranch. From what I could tell, anything not from the ranch was from a local California farm whenever possible. We also walked down through the vineyard to the garden/farm area where there was a man tending to the goats who was awesome! My daughter loves animals and he took time out of his busy day on the job to tell us ALL about the goats. She was completely enamored. If you have kids, you know that these small moments make for memories that last a lifetime. Overall, incredible stay at CVR and you won’t regret coming to visit, whether making it a destination or just passing through.

Relaxing and Comfortable Stay This resort is one of my favorite places I've ever stayed. We stayed here for a couple days at the beginning of our honeymoon and it was so relaxing to have everything accessible in one location from entertainment to relaxation. Rooms are extremely comfortable and our only regret was not bringing our dogs as it is a dog friendly resort!

Perfect weekend getaway Great property and lots of things to do in the property itself. Salt water pool is great. Suites are very spacious, clean, great views, and safe from covid perspective. Hiking trails are must do, vineyards, lavender bloom is very beautiful. Overall good time with family and kids were not bored.

Breath taking Expansive property with lots to do. Staff very friendly, free activities were unexpected but wonderful. Food was so good. Enjoyed hearing about the gardens (learned alot during the time spent with Mark)

Meh…. The rooms are a bit odd. We paid about 1600 for a nice room. But when we walked in there was a huge, Undecorated room with a conference room table. The sitting room and bedroom were really nice. The patio was equally strange. They need a decorator to make it worth what we paid. Also the activities are great but they do them rarely. Meaning unless you are there for a full week you might not be able to do the activity you want. Overpriced for what you get. People are very nice.