An Unforgettably Luxurious Escape
La Jolla has long been one of our family’s favorite stay-cation destinations. We’ve trekked south to this chic coastal enclave with the kids to kayak the famous seven sea caves, got up close and personal with scores of sea lions in La Jolla Cove, indulged in an afternoon of classic cars against a backdrop of the glittering Pacific at the annual Concours d’Elegance and whiled away many a day over the years strolling the city’s picturesque streets lined with art galleries, unique boutiques, popular retailers and destination dining establishments.
In fact, my husband, Tim, often says La Jolla tops his wish list of locales to live in our retirement. Until then, it will continue to hold a place in our hearts – particularly for special occasions like our recent wedding anniversary where we indulged in a lovely adults-only weekend away at the atmospheric Lodge at Torrey Pines.
Situated just north of the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, this tranquil AAA 5-Diamond rated cliffside resort takes its name from the 1,750 sprawling adjacent acres of unspoiled land populated with one of the country’s rarest pine trees. Driving in, we were transported to another era – one defined by Craftsman detailing (think brick, stone and wood beams), expansive public rooms with fireplaces, marble mantles, deep leather chairs and panoramic views.
It’s easy to see why Sunset Magazine rated The Lodge as the #1 Hotel in the West and described it as “one of the most beautiful hotels anywhere.” Our stunning guest accommodation featured the most luxurious Egyptian cotton linens, gorgeous over-sized soaking bath, a cozy fireplace, spacious living quarters and a breezy balcony with breathtaking vistas of the world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course overlooking the California coastline.
For the golf aficionado, the legendary landmark 36-hole facility owned by the City of San Diego originally designed by William F. Bell is home of the annual Farmers Insurance Open and 2008 and 2021 U.S. Open. The South Course was redesigned in 2001 by Rees Jones in preparation for the 2008 U.S. Open and is now 7,698 yards with a par of 72. The North Course is 7,258 yards in length with a par of 72.
2024 Farmers Insurance Open Weekday package (January 24-25) and Weekend package (January 26-27) includes a 2-night stay at The Lodge, daily breakfast credit and 2 tickets to the Farmers Insurance Open.
LodgeTorreyPines.com/Farmers-Open-Room-Offer
For the first time in over two decades, guest rooms are available at The Lodge at Torrey Pines during the 2024 Farmers Insurance Open, providing a unique opportunity for golf fans to join in the excitement. Indulge in luxury accommodations, privileged viewing areas, and the chance to rub shoulders with golf legends, all while immersing yourself in the elegance and sophistication of The Lodge — located adjacent to the 18th hole of Torrey Pines Golf Course! This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for golf fans to be up-close to the action during a major golf tournament.
For health and wellness enthusiasts like me, The Lodge showcases a full-service spa and state-of-the-art fitness center, as well as abundant open-air recreational opportunities from outdoor yoga and croquet to golf, and of course, a gorgeous heated pool. Enjoy hiking? You’ll be hard pressed to find a more inviting network of trails and rugged coastal cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean than that of the adjacent nature reserve. Explore on your own or take a twice-daily guided hike that departs from the resort’s lobby at 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Tim and I fancy ourselves fledgling foodies so a truly indulgent dining experience was definitely on the menu with a reservation at the resort’s excellent signature A.R. Valentien, where Executive Chef Kelli Crosson (a pioneer of the farm-to-table movement) reinvents her menu almost daily. The elegant ambiance carries through the wood-heavy, chandelier-strewn indoor-outdoor space and the regional cuisine worth writing home about. Examples of inventive starters and entrees include Debruin Farms Tempura Quail, Leek and Stinging Nettle Soup, Marcona Almond Crusted Swordfish and Brandt Beef Prime Ribeye paired with sides like roasted beets with pistachio butter and buttermilk and chive smashed potatoes.
An architectural masterpiece, the Lodge draws inspiration from the early 20th century Craftsman period – beautifully showcased in the resort’s distinctive woodwork, fabrics and bespoke furnishings. Clean lines, warm, open spaces, and naturally rough raw materials, like stone, wood, and plenty of natural light give beautiful complement to the deliberate and exceptional care the staff take to ensure each guest’s stay is comfortable and memorable.
