Bernardus Lodge and Spa

Staying at Bernardus Lodge exceeded my expectations. The service exceeds Forbes 5-star standards. Everything about this property is well thought out. We had driven the Highway 1 reopening and after our adventure and long drive, settling into Bernardus felt like we won a "grand Prize" of some sort. The bed is extremely comfortable, and the in-room amenities are wonderful. I highly recommend staying here and we cannot wait to go back! A shout out to Chef Gus for the menu at Lucia and server Karrissa, GM Harmut for leading this incredible staff, and to Front desk agent, Esmeralda for her authenticity and genuine interest in listening about our experience.

I have had a wonderful experience, love everything about my stay, especially the Spa. It was like a nice retreat for us. The room in the lodge was clean and comfortable. Staff was very attentive, friendly and professional.. the location was great beautiful sunsets from Carmel Valley. Love the gardens from the property very peaceful. The food was very delicious , at the Lucia restaurant. I will come back for sure. Thank you!

The Spa. They sent a “pool closed” email the week of our visit—not when we booked—so we left no time to linger. Pool was open after all. Too late. We had commitments. They charged us anyway for the privilege of eating lunch on the deck, where the wine list categorizes crémant rosé as a white. Neither the color nor the bubbles. At check-in, I left the add-ons boxes unchecked. In the treatment room, the therapist upsold hot stones and CBD. When I set my water on the bench, she said, “I don’t want your water there. I want your robe there.” So: a sales rep and a micromanager. Then the massage. I felt like I was in trouble. She didn’t like where my arms were. Then my shoulders. Then she uncrossed my feet—while not working on anything requiring alignment. I could not shake the sensation of being at cooking school. As the item being prepared. Not bread being kneaded by Poilâne. Poultry on the work station, being handled. Every time she applied pressure, the table creaked. Tighten the screws—a metaphor for the whole experience. The walls are thin enough to hear every pipe flush next door. The lockers are implausibly small. Come in a tank top and flip-flops. Bring nothing. There is no way to secure a tote or purse while you shower. At. All. Which is why my Loewe bag was poolside when the waiter spilled an entire glass of white wine on it and my coat. I’m not naming names. This is a management problem.

We spend a few days at the Lodge & Spa every January; this is our 5th year in a row. From the moment we set foot on the property, everything and everyone project an atmosphere of serenity and relaxation. The rooms are very comfortable and well appointed, the staff is uniformly helpful and responsive, the spa is first rate, and the new chef at Lucia has brought the cuisine to a new level. We had a truly wonderful visit this year and would recommend Bernardus to anyone seeking a place to chill out and be pampered.

Experienced Bernardus as a getaway with my husband, and the experience did not disappoint in any way. From arrival to departure, the Bernardus staff delivered an exceptional level of service. The property is incredibly serene and was exactly what I needed after a busy weekend. Lucia, the on-site restaurant, provided an outstanding foodie experience—from breakfast to dinner and even in-room dining. On our first morning, we enjoyed the Eucalyptus steam room and warming pool at the Spa, which left us wishing we had booked massages as well (next time for sure!). The Mercedes Drive program was a fantastic touch, and we thoroughly enjoyed the 24-hour infinity jacuzzi. The housekeeping staff were warm, polite, and attentive, as were the front desk, valet/bell, spa, and restaurant teams. I’ve already told several friends and family members that Bernardus is a must-experience destination. Until next time—thank you for such an amazing stay.