California’s Coastal Playground Elevates Guest Experience with Extensive Upgrades Across Culinary, Meetings & Events Spaces, Plus Revitalized River Ranch; Unveils New Family-Friendly Offerings
CARMEL, CA – April 22, 2024 – Carmel Valley Ranch, a resort playground for all ages set on 500 acres in the foothills of California’s Central Coast, today announced the completion of a multimillion-dollar renovation project that will transform the guest experience. The renovations encompass significant enhancements across the resort, including The Ranch’s beloved Valley Kitchen restaurant; the popular Think Tank meeting venue; and River Ranch, the resort’s hub for sports and family-friendly fun. It’s yet another imaginative update to the unique blend of playful discovery and relaxed luxury that has been a hallmark of Carmel Valley Ranch since the resort opened its doors.
“We are excited to welcome guests back to a new and revitalized resort experience,” said Ulrich Samietz, Managing Director of Carmel Valley Ranch. “What they’ll find is an exciting new chapter for the resort that includes a beautiful, newly designed restaurant, expanded and enhanced meeting and event spaces, and a completely refreshed River Ranch. It’s a gorgeous new backdrop for the creation of memorable experiences and lasting memories for our guests and families,” he said.
Guided by design firm HBA San Francisco, the renovation was intended to capture the spirit of the surrounding breathtaking natural landscape of Carmel Valley. The firm took inspiration from the land in its approach and selection of materials, creating a refreshed expression of the locale and evoking a feeling of casual luxury.
Culinary Reimagination: Valley Kitchen
The signature restaurant and the culinary heart of Carmel Valley Ranch, Valley Kitchen has unveiled a complete revitalization of the main dining area, private dining room, and outdoor spaces—including an entirely new outdoor bar complete with poolside lounge seating and day beds. The ambiance seamlessly blends rustic charm with contemporary flair, highlighted by upgraded furnishings and expressive fixtures. Inside, guests will find a newly renovated designated bar area and dining room with rich wood and leather, while a new private dining experience in the Valley View Room features a custom wood table for intimate gatherings and special occasions. Outside, in addition to the new bar, heated patios and expanded seating are an invitation to savor stunning views while dining al fresco.
The physical enhancements at Valley Kitchen are accompanied by transformed menus from Chef de Cuisine Ricardo Aguilar. As part of The Ranch’s commitment to sustainability and responsible sourcing, dishes showcase fresh, local ingredients—many of which are grown or produced on site in newly expanded gardens tended by the resort’s talented artisans.
Meetings & Events Redefined: Think Tank
For groups and business travelers seeking an inspiring setting for creativity and collaboration, Carmel Valley Ranch has reimagined the popular and intimate Think Tank meeting space. Boasting a new table, chairs, buffet, and state-of-the-art AV equipment to go with sweeping valley views, this versatile room will elevate any gathering.
Along with the brand-new look and feel of the Think Tank, The Ranch has also launched special packages perfect for corporate travelers, executive retreats, and strategy sessions—each offering savings and benefits such as complimentary upgrades and activities.
Family-Friendly Enhancements: River Ranch
Carmel Valley Ranch’s biggest play space, River Ranch, has also completed a magnificent makeover with new amenities, exciting enhancements, and expanded offerings. A new children’s wading pool and splash pad will provide endless hours of fun for young guests, while the updated Adventure Clubhouse offers games, crafting areas, and plenty of space for playing—along with half- and full-day programs for kids ages 2-5 and 5-12. In addition, a Family Game Zone offers ping-pong, cornhole and lawn games, and weekend activations including complimentary snow cones, house made popsicles, and other sweets.
There’s more room to relax, too: Lounge seating at the Family Pool has been expanded, and new fire pits provide cozy gathering spaces to unwind and connect. Other improvements include fully renovated men’s and women’s locker rooms, upgraded finishes in the Fitness Center and Movement Studio, and resurfaced tennis and pickleball courts with new windscreens.
Carmel Valley Ranch also offers the Munchkin Menu, created with the littlest Ranchers in mind. From Mockingbird and BOB strollers to Noodle & Boo baby bath kits and Little Otter mindful cards and journals, this curated menu of add-ons is designed to help the whole family get more out of their stay. Families can also enjoy daily s’mores, kid-friendly activities, and artisan-led programs including Junior Ranch Hands, bee experiences, archery, and more.
Families looking to experience the new River Ranch can book The Ranch’s Bring the Family package, valid for stays beginning May 1. It includes two nights of accommodations in a spacious two-bedroom suite, one round of golf, a spa treatment, and a special night out for the kids so parents can enjoy dinner for two at Valley Kitchen.
For more information about Carmel Valley Ranch, or to book your stay, visit carmelvalleyranch.com or call (855) 687-7262.
