The Holman Ranch in Carmel Valley, California is an ideal destination for multigenerational vacations, family reunions and intimate destination weddings.
On any starlit night, the Holman Ranch is the picture of a perfect California evening — sprawling oak trees are silhouetted against a moonlit sky and a light sea breeze inspires us to linger around the firepit roasting s’mores and chatting about our day. We eat our fill and move into the game room to drink a few more glasses of the Ranch’s wine and try our hand at pool and darts. Country music from decades past plays on the shiny red juke box, and when we finally see how late it is, we walk back outside into the balmy evening to our rooms.
Common Spaces Adapt to Various Celebrations
Originally built in 1928, the hacienda’s great room retains much of its original old west charm, with stone fireplaces, tile floors, a high oak-beamed ceiling and plenty of Western art. An arched stone doorway opens to a garden courtyard and a few steps further, an elegant and spacious stone-walled patio is perfect for dinners on warm evenings.
A completely separate carriage house with its lattice of market lights sparkling in the rafters is perfect for dancing, indoor activities or larger group dinners when the weather is inclement.
The Property Welcomes Families
Guests check in at the Holman Ranch’s wine tasting room in nearby Carmel Valley Village. We sampled wine while we waited for our key and purchased a few of bottles to enjoy later.
Strolling around the property will take you past their all-organic vineyards growing pinot noir, chardonnay and pinot gris grapes. The winery is on property and if you schedule in advance, the hosts are happy to give you a tour.
You can also hike up to the Ranch’s Tuscan olive grove or down to a private stable and riding ring where locals board their horses.
Low Key Activities around the Property
After you’ve exhausted yourself exploring, relax around the swimming pool and hot tub or play a laid-back game of horseshoes and bocce ball. Of course, the games room beckons rain or shine, and there’s a fitness center and a big lawn for kicking a soccer ball.
Nearby Attractions
With its old-world Spanish hacienda vibe and plenty of indoor and outdoor spaces to amuse your crowd, it’s easy to hunker down at Holman Ranch and never leave. But world class attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Big Sur coast, and Carmel-by-the-Sea are a short drive away.
When you don’t want to dine in, Carmel Valley village is filled with excellent restaurants, including the Ranch’s steakhouse, Will’s Fargo Restaurant and Bar.
Family Accommodations at the Holman Ranch
The sun-drenched 440-acre ranch property is tailor made for family reunions since it can accommodate up to 38 people in eight bedrooms and a cottage that are divided between three attractive stone buildings. Most rooms have shady porches with rocking chairs that overlook the property’s rolling hills and majestic oak trees.
Guests must rent the entire property so you will have the place to yourself, and since it’s a popular wedding venue, it’s easiest to book the property off-season. Check the Holman Ranch website for current offers.
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