Fall is the perfect time of year to take a romantic weekend getaway, but if you’re looking for sun-filled break before winter hits, it can be challenging to find just the right destination. However, California is always a good idea and our guest contributor, Jacqueline Louie, is taking us to beautiful San Diego for a lovely stay at the luxurious Rancho Bernardo Inn.
Rancho Bernardo Inn, located just north of San Diego, is a beautiful, upscale destination for boomers seeking sunshine at a time of year when many places are getting ready for winter.
This luxury resort really has it all: comfortable, elegant rooms, excellent dining options, an award-winning spa and wellness center, three swimming pools, 18-hole championship golf course, and exquisite grounds and gardens.
No matter whether you’re traveling with your significant other or with friends, it’s a perfect getaway if you’re looking for a little pampering, in an oasis of luxury and tranquility.
My friend Sandra Rogoza and I stayed at Rancho Bernardo recently for a course: The Meaning Institute, whose four modules took place at various resorts throughout southern California. “Of all the places that we’ve been to through The Meaning Institute, Rancho Bernardo is my favorite and I’d love to go back just for a holiday,” Sandra says. “Discovering the secret alcoves through the labyrinth of pathways on the grounds was like a treasure hunt. Very cool.”
If you’re into golf, fall is a great time of year to visit Rancho Bernardo because the weather is optimal for all sorts of outdoor activities. During our stay, Sandra and I took time to explore the entire grounds, which feature pathways, secluded courtyards, fountains, and vibrantly lush, perfectly manicured landscaping. As you stroll the grounds, you’ll breathe in the scent of jasmine, and might catch a glimpse of the hummingbirds that frequent the property.
If San Diego is not in your future travel plans, make sure to check out some of our additional ideas for Romantic Getaways for Boomers.
You can also relax on the spacious outdoor patios, which feature fireplaces, and live music every night of the week, with San Diego artists playing everything from jazz to country, to folk to pop. One night we sat outside as the sun went down and listened to a fine guitarist playing classic folk melodies – a highlight of an already memorable stay.
If you can pull yourself away from the Inn and would like to explore the area a bit, San Diego is well-known for its beaches, which include Mission Beach, La Jolla Beaches, Ocean Beach, and Del Mar Beach.
Oceanside, San Diego’s North Shore, is a great place to visit with beaches, a harbor village, and historic quarter-mile-long wooden pier, where you can stop for something to eat and drink as you make your way along the pier.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve Park, north of San Diego between La Jolla and Del Mar, offers a wealth of things to see and do. You can stroll along the Torrey Pines State Beach (whose northern end offers swimming and other activities, and whose southern end (Black’s Beach) is clothing optional), and hike the trails of the natural reserve park. This is where you can see one of the world’s rarest pine trees, Torrey pines, which grow in canyons or on sandstone cliffs. The reserve features approximately 300 endangered and protected native plant species.
Have you stayed at the Rancho Bernardo Inn? Join the conversation at the My Itchy Travel Feet page on Facebook or send us an email to ask a question or share your experience.
