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In his early years, Frank Knight loved to explore the beautiful Monterey Peninsula through biking, kayaking and surfing.  Wanting to share his experiences with others, Frank began a small rental business delivering bicycles to the local hotels for the enjoyment of visitors.  Today, that business, Adventures by the Sea, assists visitors to explore the Monterey Peninsula by land, by sea, and by party. By land, pedal a bicycle or a surrey along the recreation trail, along the coast of Pacific Grove and into breathtaking 17-Mile Drive. By sea, explore the kelp forest and abundant marine life along Cannery Row or Stillwater Cove by renting an ocean kayak or catch some waves with an expert surf instructor. By party, the Pirate Cove beach house and outdoor setup is the perfect setting for hosting Classic California Beach Party, team building programs, wedding receptions, reunions, company picnics, and more!  

Bayonet Black Horse, the storied golf club located on the scenic Monterey Peninsula, announces that all 36 holes (18 Bayonet, 18 Black Horse) have re-opened to the public on December 20 following the completion of a three-phase, $13 million renovation by Bates Golf Design Group.   One of the largest scope and scale golf course construction projects to hit the Monterey area in years, Bates Golf Design made dramatic alterations to hole routings, corridors and view sheds. New tees, bunkers and green complexes were installed, and intrusive copse of non-native trees were removed to provide unobstructed views of Monterey Bay, downtown Monterey and Point Pinos from a number of holes on both courses.   The agronomic changes were equally as impactful, as all kikuyu and poa annua grasses were replaced with Jacklin T1 Bentgrass, a rich, dark-green strain developed specifically to compete with these invasive, regional species. Both courses feature the Jacklin bentgrass on all tees, fairways and greens, and Bayonet Black Horse is one of only two facilities in the entire region to utilize this preferred turf from tees through greens. To establish a new, divergent look from Bayonet, Black Horse will sport dense, fescue rough that will provide an unmistakable links-style feel to the layout.   “We are excited to re-introduce area golfers and those visiting the Monterey Peninsula to the new-look Bayonet Black Horse Golf Club,” says Dick Fitzgerald, project director for Seaside Resort Development, the entity directing the renovation. “The whole-sale enhancements to Bayonet and Black Horse are staggering and golfers will discover two challenging, strategic and well-conditioned layouts that will rapidly emerge as ‘must play’ courses of the Monterey Peninsula.”   Although various composite layouts allowed for play during construction, this is the first time both new and improved 18-hole courses will be open at the same time. Specifically, the full extent of the work performed by lead architect and principal Gene Bates on Bayonet’s famed back-nine and Black Horse’s picturesque front-nine will be on full display. The enhancements promise to garner similar high praise from golfers and critics as his earlier renovations of Bayonet’s front and Black Horse’s back.   “Bayonet and Black Horse are now complementary; both are challenging and appealing from an aesthetic standpoint and are on the level with each other,” says Bates, who’s worked on more than 150 projects worldwide during his illustrious design career. “But the style of the greens and bunkers make the courses distinctly different. Bayonet has traditional, deep, challenging bunkers. The greens are tamely contoured because the layout, from tee to green, is challenging enough that severe greens would be too punishing and not reward good shots or heroic recoveries.”   He continues: “On Black Horse, the bunkers are large with serrated edges and clustered to draw one’s eye to them. The green surfaces have a lot of movement, conversely, because there is plenty of room off the tee and the bunkers are less severe.”   For more information about Bayonet Black Horse, visit www.bayonetblackhorse.com or call 831.899.7271 (PAR 1).   About Bayonet Golf Course   Bayonet, with its narrow playing corridors and steep, penal bunkering, has long been considered the most difficult test of golf on the Monterey Peninsula. The par-72, nearly 7,100-yard course has retained its famous bite after the recent renovation by award-winning architect Gene Bates, but playability and strategic options have been greatly improved. The uphill, dogleg right, 476-yard, par-4 ninth hole exemplifies the course’s significant challenge.   About Black Horse Golf Course   Black Horse, a 7,000-yard-plus, par-72 layout, features sweeping vistas of the Pacific and is highlighted by fescue-framed fairways, bunkers with distinctive, serrated edges and slickly-contoured greens. The par-3 15th, created during the renovation, faces the bay and is sure to emerge as one of the great holes on the Peninsula.

Guests will quickly discover why Bernardus Lodge and its signature restaurant, Marinus at Bernardus Lodge, are both recipients of Mobil's prestigious Four-Star rating. Perched along a terraced hillside in sunny Carmel Valley, Bernardus Lodge is bordered by vineyards and the Santa Lucia Mountains.  Bernardus Lodge exudes an old-world charm derived from such ambiance-enhancing accents as stone fireplaces, rich wood, ceramic tiles, vaulted beamed ceilings, overstuffed sofas and chairs and antique wardrobe armoires.

The resort boasts 57 sumptuous guestrooms range in size from 525 to 1,875 square feet. Each room has a fireplace and French doors that open onto spacious patios or balconies with views of the picturesque vineyards and mountains. Additionally, the recreational facilities capitalize on Carmel Valley's year-round warm, sunny weather. The resort has two tennis courts, a croquet lawn, bocce court, and an outdoor, heated lap-length swimming pool.

Highlights Marinus at Bernardus Lodge features California Natural Cuisine, created by celebrated chef Cal Stamenov, featuring local, organic, seasonal produce as well as regional seafood and artisan farmed meats. In 2001, Marinus received Wine Spectator magazine's highly coveted "Grand Award" for its wine cellar in, an honor granted every three years. The cellar houses 1,850 different labels of wines and a total of more than 28,000 premium bottles, including 10,000 bottles from the acclaimed Bernardus Winery & Vineyard. It is open daily for dinner from 6 p.m.-10 p.m. (Jackets are not required.) Wickets Bistro is a cozy venue, perfect for a casual meal or beverage. Guests can dine indoors or outdoors under an expansive trellis overlooking the resort's croquet lawn. Or guests can enjoy a drink at the bar, which features live music on Friday and Saturday evenings. Wickets Bistro is open daily for breakfast (7 a.m.-11 a.m.), lunch (11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.) and dinner (6 p.m.-10 p.m.). A full bar features live jazz on selected evenings. The Spa at Bernardus Lodge is a 5,300-square-foot, full-service facility with seven treatment rooms. These include a room specially designed for couples and a "warming room," where guests can enjoy herbal tea while waiting for their treatments. There are men's and women's locker rooms and steam and sauna facilities. The Spa also has an exercise room; a meditation garden; an open-air warming pool; and a full-service beauty salon.  An assortment of treatments incorporating indigenous herbs and flowers, are given by a staff of certified therapists and licensed aestheticians. The spa and salon are open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. The fitness room is open 24 hours.  

Casanova has the facilities and staff to help you put together an unforgettable banquet or special event. Our Milagro Room (capacity 35), Havana Terrace (capacity 25), and Harvest Room (capacity 85) are the perfect setting for wedding receptions, corporate dinners, or any special occasion. We also plan events at our Carmel Valley locations the Corkscrew Café, the Old Adobe Gardens, and the Milagro Chapel at the Georis Winery Vineyard. These locations offer a unique combination of fine food and wine in a romantic country setting. About Casanova My partners at Casanova, Denise, Michel, and Walter all come from the same small hometown in Belgium. Denise and Walter are my brother and sister. Michel is a relative and friend. Somehow destiny led us all to Carmel in the 70’s. One evening the conversation turned to the great country restaurants of Europe we all remembered where great meals were served in a casual atmosphere with a good bottle of wine and a cup of espresso. As we were all getting homesick for such experiences which were not available in Carmel, Michel (who was a chef in Europe) suggested the concept for a small bistro that would only serve one meal a night, family style. Were we interested? Within a couple of months we opened our first restaurant "La Boheme" which was unlike any other restaurant in California. It was an immediate success but with only 32 seats it was soon too small for the lines of people waiting to get in. In 1977 we bought an old house and turned it into what is now Casanova. Michel was the chef, Walter was the Maitre’D, Denise was the hostess and I ran the office for the first few years. In 1981 chef Didier Dutertre joined our team. Looking back over the years we realize now what a trend setter Casanova has been and continues to be. Casanova had the first real cappuccinos, lattes and espressos in our area (we had an old manual Gaggia that no one could service except for a Polish technician from Oakland who charged us by the number of cigars it took him to travel to Carmel and fix the machine). "Café au lait" served in bowls seemed revolutionary at one point. Casanova introduced flavored dipping oil for bread to the California restaurant scene back in the 1980's. It has now become standard in Italian restaurants in the US. We played contemporary European music in our dining rooms when people only knew of Maurice Chevalier and Edith Piaf. We made fresh pasta when most guests did not know the word "pasta" and asked us to explain what "fettuccine" meant. (Is that possible?!) The Casanova style and décor also became widely imitated. Casanova has influenced not only numerous other restaurants but also the look of many private houses in Carmel. Walter, the designer of our group, has been the design consultant for several residences and restaurants over the last few years. Guests often bring their designers and their architects to capture the Casanova look. I have actually seen guests pull out cameras and measuring tapes between the appetizers and the main course! Naturally, I understand them because I have done the same thing during my travels throughout France and Italy. Michel, Denise, Walter, and I have enjoyed our guests of the years. It has been a lot of work but also a lot of fun to create a world class restaurant with a faithful local and international clientele. And now our children are involved as well. On week-ends and during vacation time they help in the kitchen, the office, and the dining room. As of this year one of our sons has taken over the daily operation of the restaurants. But we still enjoy coming to work regularly. And, we still sit together and enjoy our meals in a great atmosphere with a good bottle of wine and a good cup of espresso.

Launch in external player Nestled within the River Road Wine Trail, in the Monterey Peninsula, the Hiram Corey house, built in 1891, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has been gloriously revived as an exclusive Retreat and Spa and intimate special event venue. Now, as Chateau Coralini, the magnificent mansion and grounds have been restored to their original beauty and splendor indulging guests with the gated privacy and charm of a European estate, two acres of exquisitely manicured gardens, complete with tiered stone fountains and a Victorian gazebo, resort day spa facilities, 10 luxurious guest suites, elegant event parlors, an enchanting rustic wine cellar dining room, and breathtaking views of Steinbeck¹s revered "Pastures of Heaven". Chateau Coralini's unique location provides upscale accommodations and amenities putting this destination in a class of its own on the Central Coast. Accommodations Gracious & stunning, Chateau Coralini Retreat offers 10 luxurious guest suites, in a relaxing 5-star elegant environment, comfortably  graced by the historic influence of European antiques. Monterey Peninsula is one of the world's most desired destinations and Chateau Coralini provides a gloriously remodeled historic mansion estate which is sure to be a preferred destination in California’s Central Coast. A perfect setting for discerning guests desiring an exclusive private resort with a serene setting, and upscale environments. Set amidst the hillsides of the River Road Wine Trail, minutes from the Monterey Bay, and just two hours from San Francisco, this destination offers the ultimate in luxury accommodations, personalized servicing, and local destination assistance for our special Chateau clientele. Marble, stone, and tile bathrooms with European styled vanities and air masseur bathtubs Luxurious and aromatic guest amenities, plush bathrobes and slippers Presidential Pillow top Mattresses, King and Queen available European Cotton Linens and Feather Down comforters Complimentary High-speed Internet Access (WIFI) Flat Screen LCD televisions with Premium Channels Fireplaces Hair dryers, iron and ironing board, in-room safe, complimentary bottled water, coffeemakers with coffee, tea, and hot chocolate Nightly turn down service with pillow chocolates Relaxing and rejuvenating day spa services offered on site at Spa Coralini, or in the comfort of your suite Spacious guest suites, including a private elevator accessed 1150 square foot Hilltown Penthouse Gourmet Food and Beverage Packages available  

Family owned and operated since 1982, this French-style Chateau rests on sixteen acres amongst plush vineyards and oak-studded mountains in beautiful Carmel Valley, a short 15 minutes from the Monterey Peninsula. Guests are welcome daily to taste hand-crafted Private Reserve wines, flagship Merlot and limited release Proprietary blends from the soils of Monterey County. A magnificent setting for picnicking on the Garden Cobblestone Courtyard or touring the Estate grounds and winemaking facilities. Within the Estate there are various venues, each portraying a unique ambiance and atmosphere to capture the essence of every event. Picnic in the Garden Cobblestone Courtyard in the Carmel Valley sun; create a themed event in the winery’s magnificent Chai, home to over 1000 French oak barrels; or host an elegant, formal winemaker’s dinner in the enchanting Great Hall. Chateau Julien limited release wines from the soils of Monterey County will grace the palate as guests stroll through the Estate on a privately guided tour. Each tour is customized to meet individual group needs. In addition to our grand tour of the Estate, we offer several different options for personalized tours, such as grape stomps, cooking demonstrations and team-building activities.
Products or Services Private & Corporate Events Weddings Wine Clubs Winery Events Tours, Daily complimentary & Private Vintner Salon Corporate Gifts Wine-related gifts and merchandise History In the late 1970's, Bob and Patty Brower set out to fulfill their dream. Originally from the East Coast, they had a passion for wine and admired the French hospitality encountered while traveling in Europe. They saw the potential in Monterey County as a quality wine growing region, and in 1982 began building what is now known as Château Julien Wine Estate in Carmel Valley, California. The winery's first release came in 1985 with Chardonnay and Merlot from the 1982 vintage. Today, the entire process of wine production takes place on the 16-acre estate, including the aging of nearly 2000 oak barrels of wine. Winemaker Bill Anderson joined the Browers in 1982, and produced the winery's first 100% Merlot with the premier vintage. Bill continues to produce wine at Château Julien Wine Estate, and has played an integral part in establishing Merlot as the winery's flagship varietal. The Estate Château Julien Wine Estate is located on 16 acres at the foot of the majestic Carmel Valley mountains. The winery boasts breathtaking vistas of the lush green valley where sunsets are unforgettable and rainbows bounce off the hills... Bob and Patty Brower's commitment to hospitality began when the winery opened its doors in 1982. The building itself is a replica of a home on the French/Swiss border. The warmth and hospitality exudes from the moment guests enter the Chateau. A magnificent grand fireplace, open beam ceilings and well appointed antiques set the stage for tasting Private Reserve wines. A hand blown stained glass window sits majestically at the opposite end of the tasting room, or "Great Hall." There is no tasting bar in the Great Hall, but rather an eighteen-foot antique mahogany table for tasting wines. A comfortable, inviting atmosphere is extended to each and every guest. The winery is open to visitors daily for wine tasting and tours, and all guests are welcome to enjoy the ambiance of the garden cobblestone courtyard off of the Chateau. Within the Chateau, there are several separate venues for hosting private events. Each room offers a unique setting for guests to enjoy. Nestled amongst six acres of Sangiovese grapes is the winery's "Chai" (pronounced "shay"). All of Château Julien's barrels are set in the Chai for aging. Built one story into the ground, the Chai is kept at a naturally cool temperature and humidity for aging wines. The walls are 12"-15" thick, with a natural ventilation system extending from the west of the building to the east. The addition of the Chai in 1998 has enabled the winery to barrel ferment one hundred percent of the Chardonnays and age wine longer in oak. Custom ambiance lighting and the dramatic stacking of oak barrels, make the Chai an ideal setting for private events.

Gatherings is a unique event venue to hold your private parties. Whether you are interested in small destination weddings, an engagement party or for a rehearsal dinner venue, Gatherings is sure to delight you and your guests. As our name implies, this is a place to “gather” your friends and family.  If you are looking for an atmosphere that is warm, inviting and intimate, with a touch of sophistication, we hope Gatherings will be the location that comes to mind. The home was built in the Victorian era and is a perfect boutique-type venue offering exceptional food and grand service. The charming décor includes traditional wallpapers, faux painting, antiques, chandeliers, lovely upholstery and draperies. And, for fun, we have hanging throughout the house reproductions of some of history’s greatest and influential painters. The furnishings and area rugs are eclectic and traditional in style and there are two fireplaces, one in the Parlor and one on the Deck, all creating a warm and inviting venue for any of your special occasions. For background music, you may wish to have a musician play our beautiful Baby Grand Player Piano or we can have it play the music from a CD that can be created especially for your event. Because we have one of Monterey Peninsula’s favorite catering companies on-site, Classic Catering, we have put in a window between the Music Room and the Kitchen that will allow you to view our beautiful Demonstration Kitchen. Our recent renovation allowed the addition of some technical amenities such as a Sound System, Plasma TVs, and Wireless Internet Connections. Last but not least, the home is wheelchair accessible! We look forward to sharing our home with you and making your Wedding Celebrations a uniquely memorable occasion.

Hahn Estates, Smith & Hook Winery is located in the Santa Lucia Highlands of Monterey County, overlooking the fertile Salinas Valley. Founded in 1979, the winery and vineyards are owned by the Nicolaus Hahn family. The property was formerly two ranches. The Smith Ranch had been a horse ranch, while to the south; the Hooks had raised cattle for generations. These ranches-turned vineyards presented ideal conditions for growing Cabernet Sauvignon. The winery named Smith & Hook, released its first vintage in 1979. Smith & Hook began as a cabernet-only winery. Merlot followed in 1986 and we are still one of the largest Merlot growers in the state.

With 1274 acres of vineyards in Monterey County, the Hahn's have ready access to grapes that differ in character and style. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Pinot Noir are just a few of the varieties grown in the county.

In 1991 Nicky Hahn seized the opportunity to create a second label to showcase supple, accessible wines at attractive prices. Since "Hahn" means rooster in German, the rooster signifies the Hahn Estates label. Pinot Gris, Merlot, Chardonnay, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Meritage are found under the Hahn Estates label.

The Tasting room and public decks of the estate afford spectacular views of vines cascading down the mountainside. Here you will find one of the most interesting gift shops in the area.  It is open daily from 11-4 Monday-Friday, 11-5 Saturday & Sunday. Products/Services   Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Meritage, Pinot Gris, Syrah, Pinot Noir Wine accessories, food items, gift baskets, logo clothing and various wine related items. Rental facilities available for weddings, receptions, holiday parties or corporate meetings. Picnic grounds Handicap accessible RV and Bus parking available.  

Perched on the hillside of the Carmel Highlands just south of Carmel with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Highlands Inn, A Hyatt Hotel, combines true Carmel luxury with an approachable and sophisticated spirit. Since its opening in 1917, the landmark inn has been a gathering place for artists, a hideaway for celebrities, a romantic setting for weddings and honeymoons, a unique setting for group meetings and conferences, and a popular destination retreat for leisure travelers.   Located at the gateway to California’s Big Sur, Highlands Inn at is recognized among the world’s finest hotels as part of Condé Nast Traveler's 2009 Gold List and Travel + Leisure’s 2009 “T+L 500” World’s Best Hotels. The spontaneous beauty of nature dramatically inspired the award-winning interior design of Highlands Inn, recapturing the hotel's glamorous past and infusing the property with a dramatic sense of style and sophistication to create a truly extraordinary ambiance. Most guest rooms feature wood burning fireplaces, balconies, locally milled bath amenities, and dramatic ocean views.  Weddings Our hotel has a long standing tradition of being one of the most sought after wedding locations in California. It is a tradition we are proud of sharing; for each wedding celebrated on our grounds adds to a special part of our history. Our ocean-view location can accommodate anything from the small, intimate gatherings to lavish Carmel weddings. Our attentive, caring staff can help you plan the ceremony of your dreams, from flowers to music and everything in between.  Meetings Offering 4,800 square feet of flexible function space, all with spectacular ocean views, Highlands Inn is a refreshingly unique and unexpected location for group meetings, conferences, and business gatherings. The property’s sophisticated design and ambiance capture the natural beauty of the surrounding Monterey Peninsula, while attentive, personalized service, convenient amenities, and creative catering options ensure each meeting and celebration held at Highlands Inn is memorable and flawless from start to finish. Amenities 48 guest rooms, including 43 with dramatic views. Most have fireplaces and decks or patios. Award-winning Pacific's Edge for approachable California Coastal Cuisine with spectacular panoramic views of the dramatic California coastline California Market for California Bistro dining indoors or outdoors, overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Yankee Point. High-speed Internet access Gift shop, fitness center, in-room spa services, heated pools and three secluded spa tubs. Conveniently located near historic Carmel-by-the-Sea, downtown Monterey, Big Sur, world-renowned golf, whale watching, hiking and kayaking. 4,800 square feet of flexible function space, all with spectacular ocean views.

In the Old World tradition your wedding in the garden of our hacienda becomes a reunion of trusted friends and family, celebrating in the sacred ceremony of two lives finding each other. Five Acre Private Estate Those closest to the Bride and Groom have the opportunity to spend six days and five nights in the Holly Farm's intimate village-like atmosphere. During this leisurely time together, we provide a serene setting that promotes relaxation in an environment reminiscent of an early California hacienda. We invite you and your closest friends and family to slow down and settle into the mood. The Adobe Hacienda Our restored Adobe hacienda accommodates 10 guests comfortably. This 4 bedroom, 3 bath home is decorated in early California antiques, original oil paintings and hand-made quilts. The large family kitchen is an ideal gathering place for storytelling reunions around the fireplace. The sun filled dining room easily seats 25 guests. The Adobe is stocked with kitchen basics, has a full-size washer and dryer and an iron and ironing board for your convenience. The spacious living room offers a second fireplace and a south-facing view of the Santa Lucia Mountains beyond the private patio and fountain. The Banana Cabana Directly adjacent to the Adobe Hacienda, at the end of a winding garden path, lies the Banana Cabana. Framed by redwood decking, this redwood bungalow houses 6-8 guests (depending on your formality requirements). The decor is "island wild" with bamboo curtains, futons, mural walls and eclectic artifacts. It has one full indoor bathroom and 2 outdoor showers in the garden. The Windmill Suite Over a low vine-covered adobe wall lies the Windmill Bridal Suite and Dressing Room. This suite has a private bathroom, a large shower, a rustic food service area for champagne and fresh pastries and a dressing area for the bride and bridesmaids. Lie in front of the stone fireplace for a massage or retreat to this cozy room for some privacy. Holly Farm History The farm was exclusively designed and is maintained and operated as a wedding destination facility. Our 5 night, 6 day package has been described as a "Wedding Moon". At the Holly Farm we take care of the mandatory details, freeing you to spend your time relaxing.

We are very flexible in terms of your personal needs because we only do one wedding a week. Unlike other facilities that do multiple weddings on the same day, each wedding at The Holly Farm gets our undivided attention to detail. We are not a wedding factory! The Holly Farm only does thirty weddings annually. Our wedding season begins at the end of April and goes through November. Whereas other facilities typically force your party to leave the property after a 4 hour reception, wedding celebrations at The Holly Farm are five nights and six days long. The average Saturday or Sunday wedding event starts with guest arrival at 1pm and departure around 10pm. (Music must cease at 9pm) In working with our clientèle who come from across the country and around the world, we have compiled a list of some of the best subcontractors in the area. Many of them have discounted their rates for Holly Farm clients. The people on our referral list have strong reputations and an exceptional quality of work. Your are also welcome to use vendors that are not listed by The Holly Farm.