 | | | Photos Fran Endicott Miller | | | | | | Mention to others that you are spending the weekend at Rosewood CordeValle and you will likely receive a few blank stares. Clarifying that it's located in San Martin, in the Santa Clara Valley, just an hour's drive south on Hwy. 101, still might not elicit signs of recognition. This gorgeous golf resort is a hidden gem known to few, but come early July when it hosts the 2016 LPGA U.S. Open, Rosewood CordeValle will surely relinquish its former anonymity.
Even some San Martin residents are not aware of the existence of this five-star resort in their own backyard. Tucked away in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Rosewood CordeValle rests in the midst of California's oldest wine-growing region and is surrounded by tree-covered hills, deep-set canyons, sprawling meadowlands and a championship golf course. It's a unique property - an invitation-only golf club and executive retreat frequented by business leaders and Silicon Valley entrepreneurs that is also a five-star boutique hotel with 45 luxurious Craftsman style rooms (some with private outdoor hot tubs). Room guests are granted the same privileges as club members - access to golf, tennis, the pool and spa, and the three on-site restaurants.
While non-golfers will find just as much enjoyment at Rosewood CordeValle, the place truly is a golf-lover's paradise. The beautiful 18-hole, Robert Trent Jones, Jr.-designed course is both forgiving and artfully challenging. Two practice putting greens, a specially designed short game area for chipping, pitching and sand play, and a full staff of PGA pros and caddies round out the offerings. The club's limited membership, and the resort's limited number of guest rooms, ensure that the lush green course is never overcrowded.
Take in the full scope of the course by hiking either the two-point-three-mile CordeValle or three-mile Vintner's trails, accessible from the hotel. Both take you up and into the sylvan oak tree studded hills, where you'll spot an abundance wildflowers and a variety of wildlife. The views of the valley are spectacular. You'll notice Clos LaChance winery, Rosewood CordeValle's valley-sharing neighbor. Schedule a winery tour and tasting and a resort bellman will whisk you up to LaChance's Italianate villa. The property, site of many a wedding, overlooks their vineyard acreage; you'll swear you are in Tuscany. Take a picnic and play a game of bocce while enjoying patio tastings of their vast collection of varietals. Clos LaChance is just one of a multitude of boutique wineries within a 20-mile radius of the resort. Rosewood CordeValle's concierge will happily facilitate for you an afternoon of exceptional tasting.
Back at the resort, room guests are invited to indulge at Sense Spa, where signature grape-seed treatments are derived from the surrounding vineyards. Both the men's and women's luxe locker rooms feature a therapeutic whirlpool and steam. The outdoor pool, heated to 80 degrees, features comfy lounge chairs positioned to take-in the verdant golf course vista.
Rosewood CordeValle offers three dining choices. The elegant and romantic Il Vigneto features classic Italian cuisine with contemporary California inspiration and inspired wine pairings. Lion's Peak Grill is adjacent to the pool and the golf course and provides a pleasant casual alfresco dining spot. Cocktails are served until sunset. One Iron Bar, featuring California cuisine and creative cocktails, is located off of the lobby and is a spirited spot to unwind after a day on the green. Bond with fellow Warriors fans while watching the champs on two jumbo screens as a massive indoor fireplace wards off the night chill.
Roaring fire pits and fireplaces are a Rosewood CordeValle signature item - you'll find many sprinkled throughout the property. The resort's location allows for warming midday sun and refreshingly cool evenings of coastal fog. Another signature item at the resort is its stellar art collection - 20 important pieces, curated by the property's owner. Ask at the front desk for a guide to the paintings found in the main building and restaurants, and the sculpture found in the outdoor common areas.
Once you discover Rosewood CordeValle, you'll wonder why you never knew about it. And if you find that a weekend stay is simply not enough, grab your golf membership now - before the U.S. Open reveals to the rest of the world this idyllic spot.
Rosewood CordeValle: CordeValle Club Dr., San Martin, CA 95046. (408) 695-4500. www.rosewoodhotels.com.
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Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA