3 miles SE of Carmel-by-the-Sea
Inland from Carmel stretches Carmel Valley, where the wealthy retreat beyond the reach of the coastal fog and mist. It's a scenic, perpetually sunny valley of rolling hills dotted with manicured golf courses and many a tony pony ranch.
Hike the trails in Garland Regional Park, 8 miles east of Carmel on Carmel Valley Road (dogs are welcome off-leash). The sun bakes you here, so bring lots of water. Several resorts and courses in the valley offer golf -- notably Quail Lodge (now golf-only; the hotel portion closed), 8205 Valley Green Dr. (tel. 831/620-8886; www.quaillodge.com), and Rancho Cañada Golf Club, Carmel Valley Road (tel. 800/536-9459 or 831/624-0111; www.ranchocanada.com).
While you're in the area, taste the wines at the Château Julien Winery, 8940 Carmel Valley Rd. (tel. 831/624-2600; www.chateaujulien.com), open Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm, Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 5pm. Tours are available by reservation.
