What it is

A 1,700-acre Craftsman-style resort in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

What it isn't

Monotonous. The activities list is extensive, whether you’re a golfer, tennis whiz, oenophile or just plain sybarite.

What we think

Slung between the Santa Cruz Mountains like a hand-tooled saddle on a horse, CordeValle could satisfy any hardened cowherd. But this is no dusty dude ranch. Golf reigns—the 260-acre championship course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr., regularly hosts PGA tournaments. The on-site herb and vegetable gardens translate to freshest possible food (even in California) and the acclaimed Clos LaChance winery is right next door. The Spa at CordeValle is home to only-in-a-wine-region treatments like grapeseed scrubs. And the 44 rooms themselves couldn’t be cozier, with goose down comforters, fireplaces and deep soaking tubs.

You're here because

It’s a decidedly grown up version of other nearby ranches. The hotel ensures all ages are pampered, but you won’t feel like you’re languishing in a kiddie pool.

The Moment

You’ve had tasting menus before, of course, but never like this—at a table for two lovingly arranged under a tree in the grassy foothills, five courses by Chef Victor Palma and sommelier-selected wine pairings. Candles flickering, eyelashes fluttering…

Restaurants & Bars

Il Vigneto - offers contemporary California cuisine with Mediterranean influences

Lion’s Peak Grill - offers a pleasant alfresco spot for breakfast, lunch or cocktails

One Iron Bar - offers California cuisine using local ingredients for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as specialty drinks, wines and international spirits

Location

A half hour south of San Jose, and that’s the point. You’re meant to feel far removed from the “real world”—and you do.