Two Properties To Visit This Year With Your Family
As a luxury travel agency dedicated to curating unforgettable family experiences, we have our eyes on two standout properties for 2025—Carmel Valley Ranch and The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. Each offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and refined luxury, making them perfect destinations for families seeking an extraordinary getaway. Whether it’s the rolling vineyards, organic farm-to-table dining, and immersive nature programs at Carmel Valley Ranch, or the timeless charm, horse-drawn carriages, and elegant traditions of The Grand Hotel, these properties embody everything we love about luxury family travel. Dive into the details below.
Carmel Valley Ranch: From Adventure to Relaxation
Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains, Carmel Valley Ranch offers an unparalleled family getaway in 2025. This expansive 500-acre resort is a haven for both relaxation and adventure, ensuring every family member finds their perfect activity.
Outdoor Adventures Await on the Ranch
For nature enthusiasts, the resort boasts miles of scenic hiking trails that meander through oak-studded hills and vibrant wildflower meadows. Golf aficionados can tee off on the championship 18-hole course, designed to challenge and delight players of all levels. Families can also engage in friendly matches on the tennis courts or explore the art of beekeeping with hands-on apiary tours.
Culinary Delights
At the heart of the resort's dining experience is Valley Kitchen, where the menu celebrates the bounty of the region. Guests can savor dishes crafted from ingredients sourced directly from the on-site organic garden and local purveyors. For a more casual setting, the River Ranch Café offers light bites and refreshing beverages, perfect after a day of exploration.
Wellness and Relaxation
Spa Aiyana, perched among the treetops, provides a serene escape with treatments inspired by the natural surroundings. Parents can rejuvenate with signature massages and facials, while the fitness center offers state-of-the-art equipment and group classes to keep up with workout routines.
Unique Experiences
Families can bond over unique activities such as artisanal cheesemaking workshops at The Creamery or wine and cheese tastings at The Market. For those seeking a bit of adventure, falconry sessions and hatchet throwing provide memorable experiences that blend fun with learning.
Kid-Friendly Activities
The resort's dedicated children's programs ensure younger guests are entertained and engaged. From guided nature walks to arts and crafts sessions, kids can explore and learn in a safe and nurturing environment.
Carmel Valley Ranch seamlessly blends luxury with a spirit of play, making it an ideal destination for families seeking both relaxation and adventure in 2025.
The Grand Hotel: An Iconic Stay
Experience the Magic of Mackinac Island and The Grand Hotel
Tucked away in the heart of the Great Lakes, Mackinac Island is a destination like no other. With no cars allowed, visitors step back in time, exploring the island by horse-drawn carriage, bicycle, or foot. And at the heart of this enchanting retreat stands the iconic Grand Hotel, a legendary property that has been welcoming guests for over 135 years. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or luxury traveler, this island and its grand dame offer an unforgettable experience. Perched high above the Straits of Mackinac, the Grand Hotel is a destination in itself. Renowned for its bright, bold, and traditional styling, each guestroom is uniquely designed with vibrant patterns, historic charm, and modern comforts. The Grand Porch, the world’s longest at 660 feet, invites guests to sit back in a rocking chair and take in sweeping views of the island.
A Taste of Tradition at Grand Hotel
One of the best parts of a stay at Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island? The incredible dining experiences that turn every meal into a special occasion. From formal multi-course dinners in the Main Dining Room to casual bites with a view, the culinary scene here is a blend of elegance and island charm.
Culinary Delights:
Main Dining Room: Savor gourmet breakfasts, lunches, and formal dinners in an elegant setting overlooking the world's longest porch.
The Jockey Club: Overlooking the first tee of The Jewel, this casual venue offers a delicious array of lunch and dinner options.
Outdoor Activities:
Golf: Tee off on The Jewel, the hotel's renowned 18-hole golf course, offering stunning views of the Straits of Mackinac.
Biking: Explore the island's scenic beauty on two wheels; with motor vehicles restricted, biking provides a serene way to discover hidden gems.
Horseback Riding: Experience the island's charm with guided horseback tours, a nod to its rich equestrian heritage.
Indoor Experiences:
Afternoon Tea: Indulge in a traditional Afternoon Tea in the hotel's parlor, complete with live music—a delightful experience for all ages.
Evening Entertainment: Enjoy nightly dancing to the sounds of the Grand Hotel Orchestra, offering a perfect end to your day.
Wellness & Relaxation:
Astor's Salon and Spa: Pamper yourself with a range of spa services, from massages to facials, ensuring relaxation amidst your adventures.
Poolside Leisure: Unwind by the Esther Williams Swimming Pool, named after the actress who starred in the movie "This Time for Keeps," filmed at the hotel.
Family-Friendly Programs:
Children's Programs: Engage the young ones with supervised activities, including arts and crafts, lawn games, and storytelling sessions.
Historical Tours: Participate in guided tours to learn about the hotel's rich history and the island's unique heritage.
Photos Courtesy of The Grand Hotel
Here are five fun things to do on Mackinac Island:
Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour – Since cars aren’t allowed on the island, a guided carriage tour is a charming way to explore and learn about the island’s rich history.
Visit Arch Rock – One of the island’s most iconic natural landmarks, this stunning limestone arch offers breathtaking views over Lake Huron.
Bike the 8.2-Mile Perimeter Loop – Rent a bike and ride around the island’s scenic shoreline, stopping at hidden beaches, historic sites, and scenic overlooks along the way.
Indulge in Mackinac Island Fudge – The island is famous for its fudge. Stop by one of the legendary fudge shops, watch it being made, and sample a variety of delicious flavors.
Explore Fort Mackinac – Step back in time at this historic military outpost, where you can watch live reenactments, tour original 18th-century buildings, and enjoy spectacular views from the fort’s hilltop location.
