L’Auberge Carmel, CA

OVERVIEW of L’Auberge Carmel

Built in 1929 and recently renovated, L’Auberge Carmel has only 20 guestrooms that surround a charming brick courtyard. The white stucco building with arched doorways, green trim and flower boxes filled with red flowers has the look and feel of an inn you might encounter in the French countryside. The small entryway leads to the restaurant, Aubergine, to the right. To the left is an intimate bar area with a fireplace and beyond that the reception desk. Straight through is the beautiful tiered courtyard, set with teak furniture, red umbrellas, pots of flowers and colorful gar dens, ideal for reading or an afternoon glass of wine.

THE ROOMS at L’Auberge Carmel

The guestrooms remind me of a Pottery Barn catalog….and that’s a good thing. Dark wood furniture and blue patterned curtains and accessories perfectly compliment cream colored plaster walls. French windows and antique doorknobs add a nice touch. Oversized and warm, the room was cozy and comfortable and outfitted with a flat screen TV, CD player and refrigerator. The designer bed had luxury linens and down comforters and pillows. The large bathroom had a bowl sink, a huge soaking tub and a separate marble shower. Radiant floors, organic toiletries and plump towels added to the appeal.

DINING at L’Auberge Carmel

Aubergine is the signature restaurant under the direction of Justin Cogley, a Relais & Chateau Grand Chef and James Beard nominee. The restaurant has received a Forbes Five Star rating and One Michelin Star.The 8 course tasting menu features locally sourced ingredients and is complimented by a 2,500 bottle cellar.

THE SERVICE at L’Auberge Carmel

Often the best service is the kind you don’t see until you need it and such is the case at L’Auberge. No one hovered, but seemed to be there when I wanted something. Check-in and out was efficient and friendly. A glass of wine was delivered promptly in the courtyard. My restaurant server was excellent and a staff member moved my car periodically so I wouldn’t get a ticket on the limited time street parking.

THE RATES at L’Auberge Carmel

From $649 Peak Season Weekend. Rates include breakfast.

WHAT OTHERS SAY About at L’Auberge Carmel

AAA Four Diamond Award – Dining
Forbes Four Star Award – Lodging
Forbes Five Star Award – Dining
It’s all about “understated luxury” at this adults-only Relais & Châteaux hotel in Carmel that’s “outstanding in every respect”, especially when it comes to the “superb” 10-course contemporary Californian meals at Aubergine and the “fantastic” breakfasts; the rest of the “world-class” experience includes a staff that makes “every effort”, “beautiful rooms” with French doors and deep-soaking tubs, and “luxurious” grounds.” ZAGAT

PROMOTIONS at L’Auberge Carmel

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