Famous for its climate, San Diego is considered a prime destination for its culture and entertainment options as well. From wildlife parks to art galleries to vibrant nightlife, it’s a city with plenty to reward visitors. Located just up the coast, The Lodge at Torrey Pines is a distinctive resort offering PGA-quality golfing, gourmet dining and refined accommodations that reflect the history of the area. Visitors can savor the beautiful grounds and enjoy the many activities on offer at this wonderful resort.
Accommodation type: 5-star
No. of Rooms & Suites: 169
Pricing: starts at $352 for single rooms, at $503 for double rooms, at $1,500 for suites, at $3,500 for the Gamble Suite
High season: March through September
Nearest airport: San Diego International Airport (SAN)
Suitable for: couples, honeymooners, families, pet owners
Awards:
- AAA Five Diamond Award, 2017 (14th consecutive year)
- Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, 2016
- U.S. News & World Report “50 Best Hotels in the U.S.,” 2016
Accommodation
A fitting homage to the Arts and Crafts architectural movement, The Lodge at Torrey Pines is a meticulous collection of wonderful detail, such as the intricately designed glass entrance. Mellow tones of wood from floor to ceiling contribute to the understated elegance and appeal to both public spaces and private guest rooms. Reproductions of Stickley furniture, Tiffany lamps and period art combine with the natural sunlight and woodland surroundings to provide a soothing retreat for guests.
Rooms range from intimate spaces with a single king-size bed to suites that are thousands of square feet in size. Offering views over the golf course, the woods or glimpses of the sea, they are furnished in simple Craftsman style with luxury touches like fireplaces. The hotel has a billiard room, swimming pool, croquet course and business center for use by guests.
Facilities
- A.R. Valentien Restaurant — the 18th hole of the Torrey Pines Golf Course sets the stunning backdrop for this fine dining experience. Locally sourced ingredients that change with the seasons provide inspiration for the California-based cuisine.
- The Grill at Torrey Pines — for a more casual setting and simple fare, this laidback eatery features wood-grilled fish, poultry, burgers and steaks, with vegetarian options and imaginative side dishes.
- Torrey Pines Golf Course — 36 holes of PGA-level golfing await visitors. Both courses feature challenging holes and sweeping views of the ocean and rolling hills.
- The Spa at Torrey Pines — through the use of massage, aromatherapy, sauna and herbal treatments, guests will fully unwind amidst the beautiful surroundings of this thoughtfully designed wellness retreat. Cardio machines, weights, a whirlpool tub and the pool at the nearby fitness center are also available.
Complimentary Activities
Guides offer walking tours around the property twice per day at 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Use of the chauffeured car service to the La Jolla Shores beach area and all the necessary accoutrements, such as beach chairs, towels and sand toys, are also complimentary.
Travel Options
The concierge can help guests to arrange limousine or private shuttle transfer options from San Diego International Airport. There are also taxis available outside the baggage claim area.
For those planning to rent a car at the airport, upon exiting onto Airport Terminal Road, follow signs for I-5 North towards La Jolla. Once on I-5, follow it for 11 miles, taking Exit 29/ Genesee Avenue. Continue on Genesee Avenue for one mile. This road turns into North Torrey Pines Road. After a mile, turn right, following signs for Torrey Pines Lodge. There will be a fork in the road; stay right for 400 feet and then make a right turn onto Callan Road. After another 400 feet, turn left onto Torrey Pines Park Road. The Lodge at Torrey Pines will be on the right.
Main Attractions Around The Lodge at Torrey Pines
Torrey Pines State Reserve
With more than 1,000 acres of wild and beautiful landscape, this coastal reserve offers a glimpse of California in its most primordial state. The sandy stretch of beach is perfect for picnicking and enjoying the seabirds flying overhead. Hiking further inland allows visitors to view the rare Torrey pine tree that is native to this part of California. Sheer cliffs undulate across the landscape, and there are lookout points perfect for snapping photos and admiring the distant terrain. Plenty of animals call this area their home, and spotting particular species is just part of the fun of a visit.
Birch Aquarium
Thousands of fish in dozens of recreated habitats are the highlight of this educational exhibit maintained by the Scripps Institute of Oceanography. Visitors of all ages can learn about the species hiding beneath the waves just offshore. Many of the displays feature hands-on elements to keep little ones entertained. One of the highlights of a visit is the chance to watch the fish feeding or to view divers in the two-story-high tank. Staff provide helpful schedules of the various creatures and when they eat so visitors can plan their trip accordingly.
La Jolla Cove
A favorite of photographers for its cliffs and stretch of beach, the natural formation that gives the cove its shape also creates waves that are typically much smaller than other areas along the coast. This allows visitors the perfect opportunity to snorkel or scuba dive in the clear waters just offshore. Visibility underwater is excellent, and there are lifeguards on duty to ensure safety. This area is part of a larger underwater reserve, making the number of species present higher than other diving spots.
Final Words
Visitors to San Diego can bask in the warm California sunshine and work on their golf game, wander through a museum or hike along the coast. The art and architecture found at The Lodge at Torrey Pines provide an accommodation timeless in its design and offers a haven for relaxation. Have you had the opportunity to visit this amazing resort? Let us know about your stay in the comments below.
Another beautiful resort for you to check out in San Diego is La Valencia Hotel.