As I set down my wine glass and reached for my charcuterie plate, an enormous golden retriever came bounding through the lobby door, heading straight toward me.
His owner came dashing behind, and she began to apologize to me for the intrusion, then stopped mid-sentence once she saw me beckoning the beautiful furball into my arms. All thoughts of snacks were immediately forgotten as I snuggled up to Rocko, as I later learned is his name, while his owner grabbed herself some complimentary bites.
In the bright and cheery lobby, guests will find a complimentary continental breakfast from 8 to 10 a.m. and a complimentary happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m.
Credit: 2019 The Getaway
Such is the vibe at The Getaway in Carmel-by-the-Sea, Calif. The 34-room boutique property opened last April after an extensive renovation and external refresh of the former Village Inn. The result is a stylish hotel with cozy touches and a home-away-from-home feeling.
Pooches such as Rocko are welcome at the two-story property, which offers dog-friendly king rooms on the first floor that come with dog beds and water bowls ($75 for one dog and $90 for two dogs).
Other accommodation categories include king and queen rooms, along with an ADA queen room and one king suite, which offers a separate sitting room with a pullout sleeper sofa.
Every guestroom features a fireplace and an uber-comfy Doctor’s Choice mattress by Denver Mattress Co.
Credit: 2019 The GetawayAlthough the king suite can easily accommodate a family or group of four, travel advisors should note that The Getaway is best suited for couples (or close friends), as twin beds or rollaway beds are not available.
My second-floor king room was the perfect home base for exploring the picturesque seaside town, especially because the bed, which is outfitted with a Doctor’s Choice mattress from Denver Mattress Company and down bedding, was extremely comfortable. After a day of walking, hiking and roaming around Carmel (and a night of indulgence in the town’s many great bars and restaurants), it was with pure contentment that I curled up in bed to rest for the next day’s adventure.
Perks also include Gilchrist & Soames bath amenities.
Credit: 2019 The GetawayEvery room is furnished with simple but chic decor in a soothing color palette of beiges, blues and whites that reflect the hues of the nearby coast. Rooms also feature a small in-wall fireplace, along with amenities including robes; snack and drink items for purchase; and Gilchrist & Soames bath amenities. Geometric black-, gray- and white-tiled flooring and an all-glass shower lend a modern, sleek look to the spacious bathrooms.
Along with the complimentary happy hour where I met my fluffy friend — during which guests can nosh on veggies, hummus, salami, cheese and nuts, as well as sip wine and sparkling wine — breakfast is included with a stay.
The deluxe continental breakfast offers goodies such as house-made granola; yogurt parfaits; flatbreads topped with items such as smoked salmon or meats; hard-boiled eggs; waffles with fruit; coffee from Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Company, a local favorite; and more.
The property debuted mid-April 2018 after an extensive renovation and external refresh.
Credit: 2019 The GetawayAnd while I chose to dine indoors during my stay — the lobby serves as the venue for check-in, happy hour and breakfast — guests can also savor their meal on the outdoor terrace, complete with a fire pit.
There are thoughtful, charming touches like this throughout the property, including games, beach toys and books in the lobby; bright-blue guestroom doors and AstroTurf-style doormats; a small, portable herb garden at the main entrance; and an additional outdoor fire pit and sitting area. Guests can also check out complimentary baby-blue beach cruisers.
What the hotel lacks in size or traditional luxury amenities, it makes up for in spades with contemporary style, a relaxed, homey atmosphere and — if you’re lucky — new four-legged friends.
The Details
The Getaway
www.thegetawaycarmel.com
