L'Auberge Carmel

Elegant, intimate hotel with superb restaurant, just 4 blocks from the beach in classy Carmel

Carmel-by-the-Sea has a near perfect setting between 2 spectacular rocky headlands: one holds a championship golf course, the other a stunning State Reserve - with a sugar-sand curved beach, beloved by walkers and dog owners. Catapulted onto the world stage by choosing Clint Eastwood as Mayor in the mid-'80s, the cute low-rise town has some quirky traits (no traffic lights, parking meters or house numbers), and attracts those in search of upscale shopping, gallery browsing and gourmet food.

L'Auberge Carmel is housed in former artist studios dating to 1929 (Carmel has a rich artistic history). This charming hotel has 13 rooms over 2 levels surrounding a flower-filled courtyard, and an overall European feel. Rooms are simply luxurious with comfy beds and marble bathrooms, many with soaking tubs, and a few have coveted glimpses of the ocean (uniquely, only residential buildings are close to the water here). Artwork is tasteful and local - jazz style in the lobby, atmospheric photos in the rooms.

A further highlight is its bijou restaurant, Aubergine, where chef de cuisine Justin Cogley conjures up texture and taste, colour and confection, inspired by the freshest Californian ingredients and modern Mediterranean influences. You're within walking distance of everywhere in Carmel and easy driving distance of Big Sur and Monterey, with the full gamut of adventures on your doorstep. Perfect.

Highs

• Quiet, yet central location just off Ocean Avenue and only 4 blocks from the beach
• Superb Aubergine restaurant serving excellent quality food
• Efficient, impeccable and friendly service
• A great base for exploring Big Sur (where hotel rooms are in short - and often expensive - supply) and Monterey, and enjoying local watersports
• Perfect for a romantic break

Lows

• Decor is plush and comfortable, as befits the building, but definitely not cutting-edge stylish
• You may need to book the restaurant in advance as it is small and very popular
• No kids allowed in the restaurant but a bistro table can be arranged in the small bar area
• Rooms are not huge, but all you need is at hand
• There is only one room (a Standard Courtyard King) which can be configured with twin beds