As the temperatures jump above the 100-degree mark, most desert dwellers are looking for a way to escape the sizzling summer—at least for a weekend. Lucky for us, our neighboring state of California offers the perfect picturesque coastline.
Where to Stay
Just outside North San Diego County near Del Mar rests a quiet Mediterranean estate with inviting views, stellar service and the ultimate in grandeur lifestyle. Architecturally inspired by Addison Mizner (1872-1933), The Grand Del Mar’s visionary style was influenced by the Floridian Renaissance that helped shape the resort communities of Boca Raton and Palm Beach, Fla. Red and white-striped awnings, marble floors, ornate stone work and arched doorways define the craftsmanship while floor-to-ceiling glass doors complement the resort’s indoor/outdoor lifestyle.
Each of The Grand Del Mar’s 249 opulent guest rooms and suites are affixed with world-class amenities that include marble-clad bathrooms with European-style soaker tubs and wall-mounted 13-inch flat screen TV’s, plush pillow-top beds with 100 percent goose-down pillows, a 40-inch flat screen LCD TV with HDTV, a mini-bar and complimentary Wi-Fi. Additional resort amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness facility and spa, executive business center and services, The Explorer’s Club for kids, twice daily housekeeping, conference concierge, daily laundry, valet parking, complimentary daily newspaper and complimentary town car services within a 14-mile radius, to name a few.
The Villas at The Grand Del Mar
For those who frequent the Del Mar area (possible for the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club) or just looking for a second-home destination, the Villas at The Grand Del Mar present the perfect address. Offering 80 1/10 fractional ownership opportunities, which include five vacation weeks per year, the residences include every amenity and service of the resort plus capital.
Designed with the same Mediterranean influences, the villas, which are priced at $5 million respectively, are adorned with $500,000 worth of fine furnishings. Each two-story residence showcases two spacious floor plans ranging in size from the 4,000-sq.-ft. “Brisa Villas,” to the 5,000-sq.-ft. “Loggia Villas.” Resident staples include gorgeous gourmet kitchens with Viking appliances; retractable floor-to ceiling windows blending indoor and outdoor living areas; indoor/outdoor climate-controlled living spaces; state-of-the-art media rooms; a butler; grocery stocking; housekeeping, administrative and business services; and full golf membership privileges are just a few.
Where to Play
The Grand Golf Club
Spanning 380 emerald green acres, The Grand Golf Course is a challenging Tom Fazio-designed 18-hole par-72 course fit for all levels of play. Opened in 1999, the Grand Golf Club also provides avid duffers with a 2,000-sq.-ft. putting green and a 5,000-sq.-ft. practice tee.
The Spa at The Grand Del Mar
The soothing 21,000-sq.-ft. renaissance-inspire spa features an array of indulgent services and 11 treatment rooms. Our recommended treatment: the spa’s signature Renaissance. This 90-minute treatment begins with warm mineral-rich mud combined with warmed aromatic oils that is applied to the body before relaxing in a warm body wrap while resting on a relaxing free-floating bed. After, an uplifting rosemary-infused Swiss shower helps awaken the senses before ending with a soothing stretching massage.
Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve
What better way to start the day then a leisurely 4 1/2-mile hike through one of San Diego’s most desired trails? Surrounded by sweet-smelling wildflowers and playful bunnies, the Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve is a 4,100-acre spread located 12 miles north of downtown San Diego. Guests of the resort, as well as the public, can enjoy the parks 37 miles of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails.
Where to Dine
The Grand Del Mar’s several dinning destinations offer guests a bevy of culinary options. Choose from acclaimed Addison restaurant; the Clubhouse Grill; Amaya, the resort’s all-day dining destination; Cent’anni, the gourmet coffee shop; the poolside eatery; the Lobby Lounge; and the Library.
Addison is Southern California’s only restaurant to garner both the AAA Five-Diamond Award and the Mobile Five-Star Award, and under the culinary direction of Chef William Bradley. (Many Valley-goers may remember chef from both Mary Elaine’s and the Vu restaurants.)
Located just a few hours from Phoenix, The Grand Del Mar offers not only the perfect weekend getaway but one that can be frequented often.
For more information about The Grand Del Mar, visit www.thegranddelmar.com.
