Superior golf on the Monterey Peninsula beyond Pebble Beach
When contemplating a golf getaway to the Monterey Peninsula, your first thought will almost always be the esteemed Pebble Beach. However, located less than 10 miles inland from Pebble is one of the best kept secrets in all of California. Set on a breathtaking 850 acres against an unparalleled backdrop of the Santa Lucia Mountains, Quail Lodge is a premier secluded lodge with a spectacular 18-hole championship golf course located in Carmel. Winner of a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, Quail Lodge opened its doors in 1964.
Weaving through the foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains, the golf course was originally designed by Robert Muir Graves in 1964 and more recently refined in 2015 by Todd Eckenrode. The par 71 course stretches to just under 6,500 yards from the farthest set of tees. The course conditions are on a level only the finest courses in the world are kept.
For the second consecutive year, Quail Lodge recently received the yearly award for “Best Playing Conditions” by GreensKeeper.org.
The traditional tree-lined course design features a fantastic layout; each hole has its own unique character. Golfers will be challenged to a solid test of their game with plenty of water hazards, bunkers, natural waste areas, and elevation changes that keep the round exciting and fun. The impeccable conditions, along with the exotic mix of plants, flowers, trees, and wildlife surrounding the course, might distract you from your game.
The par 4 4th hole is among the toughest on the track, given its intimidating tee shot with trees on both sides and severe uphill climb to an undulating table top green. The following hole is one of the most picturesque on the course. This severely elevated tee shot overlooks the gorgeous valley and mountains with a water hazard short right and a bunker guarding the left side of the green. At just under 200 yards, you will need to focus and make a great swing to reach the putting surface in regulation.
Holes 10 through 12 are secluded away from the resort and clubhouse. After a short drive through a tunnel, you arrive at the 10th tee, where it appears as if you just entered a rainforest in light of the mammoth trees and mountains surrounding these serene holes. Although not intimidatingly long, Quail Lodge will require even the best golfers to bring their shot-making skills to navigate around this brilliant track.
With five sets of tees, Quail can accommodate all levels of players. But no matter your skill level, you will want to have your camera within reach, as the beauty of the course and its surroundings will amaze you.
A peaceful and tranquil lodge with stunning views of the scenic Santa Lucia Mountains
Although the immaculate golf course is the focal point of this resort, the peaceful lodge is rounded out by a year-round heated outdoor pool, tennis courts, gym, bocce ball court, nine-hole putting course, and fabulous cuisine. With a range of hikes and full-scale wineries just a short drive away, there is something for everybody at Quail Lodge. Located just off the main lobby there is a casual bar and restaurant with a cozy fireplace that features a back deck overlooking a quaint pond, a peaceful spot to enjoy a bite to eat and a cocktail. Throughout the resort there are spiraling walkways that are all beautifully landscaped, leading to the 93 well-appointed guest rooms. Each room is complete with modern furnishings, sleek wooden accents, and state-of-the-art technology. With their chic decor and private decks or patios, you are sure to be comfortable and feel right at home in your guest room.
The perfect spot to unwind, enjoy a cocktail and a superb meal after a round on the links
Edgar’s at Quail Lodge, located just below the clubhouse, offers the freshest ingredients sourced directly from the region’s own organic farms, creating a farm-to-table dining experience. Open for lunch and dinner, Edgar’s has a wide variety of menu items ranging from flatbreads and sandwiches to steaks and seafood. Pair your delicious food with the finest local California wines, regional microbrews or classic cocktails.
One thing is for sure: once you visit Quail Lodge, you will surely be a repeat visitor to this California hidden gem.
