I'm a very well traveled and discerning traveler. This property is a 10/10. The service was truly above and beyond. Very impressed!! The owner should be very proud of their dreams coming to life here. Great job hiring a truly world class team. Love the renovation. Phenomenal taste!!! read more

Love, love, love this beautiful boutique hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea! Villa Mara is a gorgeous boutique hotel tucked away in a quiet seaside neighborhood. It blends so naturally into its surroundings that we actually drove right past it the first time. I imagine the town has strict design guidelines to preserve the charm of the area. We stayed here for the first night of our Big Sur vacation, and it was beautiful. When we arrived, we were greeted by a gentleman who escorted us to our room. He appeared to be handling everything himself that evening, yet every interaction was warm and welcoming. His hospitality made us feel genuinely cared for throughout our stay. Our room didn't have a microwave, which honestly suited the elegant aesthetic of the room. However, at night we needed to warm our 17-year-old Yorkie daughter's heating pad for about 30 seconds before bedtime, since she's a senior and warming her tummy helps her sleep comfortably. He happily heated it for us each night. We also needed to keep her food frozen, but the room refrigerator didn't have a freezer compartment. When we asked, he kindly offered to store it in their large commercial freezer in the kitchen. Because this is not a large, impersonal hotel, the warmth and personal touches made our stay especially comfortable and memorable. The service was so attentive that it felt less like staying at a hotel and more like being welcomed into a friend's home. In the evenings, guests were treated to complimentary slices of cake in the lobby along with a glass of wine. Our room had a lovely private terrace, and at night, when we opened the window, we could hear the rhythmic sound of the waves crashing as if the ocean were right next to us. It felt almost magical, and we fell asleep with the window slightly open, listening to the surf. The bed was very comfortable, and the TV was great--it had everything we needed. I especially appreciated the Japanese-made air conditioner, which made it easy to adjust the room to the perfect temperature. I was also impressed by the beautiful Waterworks shower in the bathroom--it was exquisite. Every corner of the hotel reflected impeccable taste and thoughtful attention to detail. Another thing that stood out to me was the scent of the hotel. When I first walked into the lobby, I noticed a beautiful fragrance that I believe came from L.A. Lab candles. It instantly created a luxurious atmosphere, and that same refined sense of style extended to the soaps and bathroom amenities as well. Honestly, we wished we could have stayed longer. On our second night we stayed at Alila Ventana, but next time we visit Big Sur, we'll spend both nights at Villa Mara instead. Finally, I accidentally left my white Japanese hair dryer in the room. When I called the next day, a staff member who hadn't been there during our stay immediately knew what I was talking about and kindly offered to ship it back to me. Less than a week later, it arrived safely at my home- thank you! read more

Villa Mara - They kindly shipped it for us and did not charge any shipping or handling fees. - Hotels Near Me - Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

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Villa Mara is pure California luxury, and easily one of the nicest boutique hotels I've ever stayed at. Opened in 2022, it feels brand new yet already timeless, with design that's both elegant and warm. The rooms? Incredible. Heated bathroom floors (yes, heated floors), a complimentary snack bar and fridge stocked with goodies, a sleek Dyson hairdryer, and even a fancy bidet -- every detail has been thought through. Our patio looked out toward the ocean, and at night you could hear the waves. But the real star of the show is breakfast. The coffee is excellent, the quiches are light and flavorful, and the almond croissants... wow. Hands down the best croissants I've ever had. I would come back just for those. Service was top-notch from start to finish. The staff made us feel so welcome -- kind, attentive, and genuinely happy to help. Add in the location (just steps from the beach), and this place checks every single box. If you're looking for a Carmel getaway that blends luxury with charm, Villa Mara is it. read more

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Villa Mara was an absolutely dream! Stayed 1 night with a friend for a girl's getaway. They text to check in and get an idea of our arrival time and greeted us when we got there. Our room wasn't ready but they offered to hold our bags while we went out to lunch and guaranteed it would be ready by the time we got back. The room wasn't huge but had everything we needed for 1 night. You could tell they took a lot of time to ensure that the guests would be completely comfortable and have everything they need. They do offer a welcome drink that you can have upon arrival or whenever you'd like - we opted for the drink before we headed out to dinner and we were able to sit by the fireplace on a cozy couch. They offer cake to all guests at night in the lobby/bar area in addition to any of the snacks in the room. Breakfast was included although we were really excited about this other place in town. From what I saw the breakfast looked amazing! There's no parking lot, but there seemed to be plenty of places on the street. It is right in the middle of a neighborhood but a quick drive into Downtown Carmel! read more

One of the best! I've summered at Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons and other high-end boutique hotels, and this one is unmatched! It's intimate, it's private, it's the perfect weekend getaway! I get giddy over complimentary services and these are just a few included with your stay: welcome cocktail, slice of cake in the evening, unlimited loose leaf herbal teas and coffee, freshly baked warm cookies during turn down service, and brunch....The powder room is supplied with Dyson appliances and Le Labo amenities, all while being surrounded by book matched marble showers- if you know you know. The best way to describe Villa Mara is Curated. I truly felt like someone traveled the world and grabbed little treasures and local finds to furnish and add heart to the villa. Good thing I don't live far because I will be a guests again to receive rest at Villa Mara. One of the best birthdays yet, cheers! read more

Staying here is an unparalleled experience--no other hotel comes close. After my first visit last year, I found myself thinking about this place almost every day. Once again, it exceeded all my expectations. The staff are genuinely some of the kindest people you'll ever meet. Though I barely know them, they made me feel so welcome it was almost as if they were family. This hotel has a quality that can only be described as magical and heavenly. read more

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Love love loveeeeeee this place! I cannot describe how amazing this place is. Everything here is beautiful and very cozy. When you arrive, you are greeted by their wonderful staff. The service here is excellent. They are very accommodating and give great recommendations. Have to give major shout out to George, Jonathan, and the ladies during breakfast time. The rooms are immaculate. I love how cozy everything is. It's clean and homey. I love how comfortable and inviting it is. The snacks and drinks in the room are complementary and you can request for more if you like! They really do make you feel at home with their decor. And I love how you can go out into the common area and sit down by the fireplace and relax. Their food here is very delicious, whether you get breakfast lunch or dinner. I love the fact that they have cake at night and drinks are throughout the day! Honestly the way they make their drinks are better than some places in downtown Carmel! Yes it is expensive but it well worth it. It's definitely an experience to try! read more

Villa Mara is an adults only, exclusive, high-end luxury boutique hotel located in Carmel. It is close to the beach yet hidden in a quiet neighborhood. On May 17, 1980 we got married at the Lodge at Pebble Beach and honeymooned at the Sandpiper. In 2019 the Sandpiper was bought, torn down and re-emerged as the new, luxury 16 room Villa Mara. Each room is different and unique. On May 17, 2024 we returned to celebrate our 44 years anniversary. When we arrived we were warmly greeted with a glass of wine. Our luggage was brought quickly to our upstairs room overlooking the ocean. Each room includes free snacks and a small refrigerator stocked with beverages. The complimentary breakfast was delicious. It was a memorable stay. read more

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The absolute best and cutest boutique hotel ! This place is a hidden gem. In the residential area of Carmel. 1 block away from the water. Hotel is so cozy and homey. Definitely reminds me of a bed and breakfast. Staff is super nice and accommodating. Very clean and quiet hotel with so many nice touches. 100/100 recommend staying here for a relaxing quiet getaway read more

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In all fairness, the service and location were great. My issue is with the price, at upwards of $800 plus tax a night on some weekend nights, it feels excessive, and at that price you have a right to be a bit more critical: - the refreshments in the room weren't replenished on the second day. Felt stingy - I saw a pincher bug in the room on the first night - breakfast felt stingy as you were limited to one thing from each section on the menu even though you paid so much. Pretty limited menu as well. The items that we tried did taste good though. - refrigerator in the room does not keep beverages cold at all. And I know we didn't have a defective one because the staff replaced it and it was still the same situation. Bad choice of refrigerator on their end. - it wasn't clear on how you were supposed to request anything from the staff once you were in the room, nothing posted anywhere on what number to call for service of any kind. I called the main phone number they have on google and luckily that was the one. Didn't reach someone until the second try though. They also mentioned that you can text the number, but when I did that they never responded, I had to call them again. They claimed there were technical difficulties. Overall I don't regret the stay, I do regret my wife paying so much for this place for our stay. It didn't feel worth as much as we paid in all honesty. read more

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We absolutely loved our stay here. The attention to detail and accommodations were above expectations. We stayed in the cottage and loved our privacy especially around the fire pit. It was a great place to recharge and just across from the ocean too! We loved being able to ride around on the bikes they provide as well and the brunch was super cute. Rocky and Joseph are amazing and they took good care of us during our stay. We just loved how intimate the setting was and we will definitely be back on our next getaway to Carmel! read more

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Some of the best service, with some of the best staff my wife and I have ever met. To say they make this place feel like home would be an understatement. Pull up a chair to the bar, have a slice of their cake testing (come on, who else does something that fun for such a small boutique hotel), and enjoy the amazing location. You won't regret it! read more

Villa Mara - Hotels Near Me - Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

happy at villa Mara. We were happy to discover that new place to stay in Carmel. Breakfast was great thank you read more

My fiancé and I lucked out last minute, snagging the Pescadero room, for our anniversary. Being greeted with a delicious, cold glass of Sancerre, and warm, inviting fires all around, Robert and Jonathan, went above and beyond to make us feel at home at Villa Mara. I had even arranged for caviar service and our favorite cocktails to await us in our room prior to arriving. They made sure the surprise was perfect! I cannot say enough good things about our experience. From check in to check out, everything about this gem of a hotel exceeded our expectations. 10/10 would stay again! read more

I visited there to ask about the hotel because it was near where I live. The neighborhood is so gorgeous that I was walking and walking with a friend. We stopped in the hotel to talk to the staff and they were so welcoming even though we were not staying there. The door was open so we went inside and they are so focused on making their guests stay so comfortable and enjoyable. I would tell people to give them a try when you visit Carmel-by-the-Sea. read more

Amazing. Love it. Gorgeous. Feels like you're living in the set of a Nancy Meyers movie, and you can walk to Carmel Beach and restaurants.

This was our second visit to Villa Mara and I can't say enough nice things about this place. It's in a great location sort of off the beaten path. It's close enough to downtown Carmel yet far enough way to be a nice retreat at the end of the day. It's beautifully designed and appointed. Outside there are wonderful fire pits and sitting areas. Inside the lobby the fireplace is awesome and it really makes you feel at home, The rooms are excellent. With top of the line materials and beautiful bathrooms. Snacks in the room are included and they're awesome. They have a great full bar as well so you can enjoy a cocktail in the evening before heading out to dinner. The breakfast they serve is phenomenal. Amazing pastries! And I saved the best part for last. The staff. They're just so wonderful. They make you feel like you're family. Five star service all around. Amazing folks. I highly recommend Villa Mara! read more

This new boutique hotel is easily my favorite place to stay in Carmel. Beautiful property, attention to detail, great service, and wonderful location on Carmel Point, one block from the ocean. Feels like you are staying at your very tasteful friends home. So comfortable and well done. The small bar is well appointed. Several outdoor fire-it areas allow for communal or private relaxation. Bikes to borrow. Wish I could stay for a month. Some rooms have views of the ocean. I would say this is the best hotel stay in Carmel. read more

Villa Mara - Photo does not do justice to this special hotel. - Hotels Near Me - Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Leaving this review after our first stay here. The grounds are beautiful, the staff was really nice and friendly throughout the whole booking and stay process. We really appreciated the breakfast that we didn't expect. Also having a small bar and area to socialize in was really nice, It's not something I would have thought of but we enjoyed the convenience of it. The hotel is one block from the ocean which is rare for Carmel hotels. We will definitely be staying here again. We stayed in the Jeffers Room and look forward to trying the other rooms. Highly recommend. read more

We selected Villa Mara for a two-night stay, excited to try out the newest boutique hotel in Carmel. Prices are still high across the board in Carmel and many other spots, and Villa Mara isn't cheap, but it's competitive with the better properties in the area (and about 25% of the cost of staying at Ventana or Post Ranch right now) and offers a truly personal/personalized experience with elegant, modern and quiet lodging. It's located about a mile south of Ocean Ave. and the Carmel buzz - but it offers walk-around-the-block beach access, some water views, and many accoutrements that made us feel very pampered while offering some separation from the not-so-relaxing elements of downtown. The Lobos room we had booked wasn't available due to a maintenance issue, but it didn't matter - we received a nearly identical room with killer ocean views, a balcony with even better views, a mini-bar with beer, water and other goodies, and endless wine (several different options) from the in-house bar in the lobby. Monterey resident Roque, who welcomed us and provided numerous insights from eating places to the best place to charge our EV (Seaside!). The room itself has that "just built" feeling and was very comfortable, the bathroom featuring heated floors and a large shower. While you can hear a little activity in the lobby in the AM, where you can get coffee and goodies, the heavy doors keep most noise out, and we couldn't hear anything after 8 PM. Also, being off the "main strip" provides much-needed separation; there are myriad places to walk, run, bike (they have bikes you can borrow), or take off for a trip to Carmel Valley, Big Sur, or Monterey. Street parking is ample and we had no issues finding spots, which would be a challenge in a similar property closer to downtown. In-room bathroom goods are incomparable, with Le Labo representing the most enjoyable, unisex shower/bath combo I've ever used, and we've stayed at myriad top hotels across the US and beyond. They offer samples to take home as well, so you're not just snagging hotel stuff and feeling bad about it (at least we would). The lobby and gardens are without compare. There are places to sit and enjoy the hundreds of plants; local and beyond artwork dotting the interior; and just an overall sense of relaxation and unbridled appreciation of the opulence and bounty of the environs. I can't say enough about the bar, where they have everything from fresh-baked cookies to wellness shots (e.g., elderberry) to beer and more. We didn't partake of the breakfast items but they've got 'em! An unequivocal 5 stars for the best (for us) boutique property that is currently available in Carmel-by-the-Sea. read more

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This is definitely our new go to get away hotel. It's romantic and comfortable. The breakfast is delicious and the staff feel like long time friends. Yes it's pricey but we felt pampered and we won't Think twice about that money being gone. A big thank you to Rocky, George, Jonathan and Olivia and also the people behind the scenes ....also liked how the fridge and goodies were replenished everyday and what wasn't we asked for and they brought it up Thank you all Btw we stayed in the Lobos room. Nice view of ocean and private. Next time we're going to stay in the cottage! read more

We had the best time at Villa Mara. The service and overall experience was perfect. Welcome drinks when we arrived, cookies at turndown service, an incredible complimentary breakfast, and very attentive and helpful staff. To top it all off the location is amazing. And I would die for the overflow tub in our suite. We'll definitely be back. read more

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I can't speak highly enough about our stay at Villa Mara. The experience more closely resembled that of being a treasured guest in a gorgeous, large home rather than a customer at a hotel. The layout and design is as comforting as it is aesthetic, and every detail is seen-to. Even the reading material in the lounge was absurdly apt and inviting. Each day began with a multi-course breakfast with several options for the protein, pastry, and beverage. Returning every evening meant joining the hosts and other guests in the foyer and enjoying coffee or tea by the fire. Villa Mara is cause alone for us to re-visit Carmel. By time we left, the staff and even the owner felt like friends. The location is absurdly good. Only a block separates the property from Scenic Drive and the waterfront, which is viewed from the second-floor balconies. We especially enjoyed that the property offers both private retreat spaces as well as communal hob-know areas, suiting any mood. Downtown Carmel is easily walkable, or a very quick drive. We had no issues with parking. read more

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I can't say enough great things about the staff at Villa Mara. My parents spent a weekend for my mom's birthday and we wanted to arrange for a surprise. I contacted them to ask about options and, not only did they have a small on-site menu, but they had creative ideas for other food options AND they had already noted my parent's schedule for the weekend. They texted with me for the next day as we arranged for a local restaurant to deliver dinner, and other deliveries for flowers and wine. I gave them my parent's ETA after their daytime activities and they had a surprise table set up in a sunny corner with the food, plates, wine glasses, the flowers and the wine chilling in an ice bucket - and kept the whole thing a surprise! I have never been to this location but it is #1 on my list the next time I head to Carmel! read more

Villa Mara - Hotels Near Me - Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Where do I begin and how do I write without simply seeming like I'm gushing? Well, here goes...We spent two nights here after a week in Paso. Upon arrival we were greeted by George who immediately made us feel like we were family, as we arrived far too early to check in, I asked George for a lunch reco and he hit the nail on the head (for what would be the first of many times). We left our car there and took an Uber, had a relaxed lunch, wandered a bit around town and headed back to check in. Robert was there and after our welcome beverages (amazing choices from a fully stocked bar with excellent wine options as well) he checked us in and helped with the bags. The room was pristine, well appointed, and beyond comfortable. As we were heading out to dinner, I asked George and Rocky ( we had also met her at check in) , where I might find Pliny the Elder, an IPA I've been dying to try and can't be found on the east coast, they made some suggestions. Upon returning from dinner, my wife headed up to the room for a few minutes and I stayed with our traveling friends to sit and sip some wine outside. When she returned, she showed me a picture of 3 bottles of Pliny the Elder that the trusty triade, George, Robert and Rocky had acquired and left in the room. As if that was not enough, we were leaving after the second day at 3 AM to head to the airport for an early morning flight, and Rocky said she'd make sure that there were take away breakfasts ready for us since we'd miss that morning breakfast. I could go on but all that needs to be said beyond this is simple: A wonderful location, an incredible staff and attention to detail beyond expectation. We can't wait to return for a longer visit. read more

i travel a lot worldwide, about 2 million airline miles (actual miles) and 4000 hotel nights. this is a great place to stay with some serious flaws. it's a beautiful place with great ambiance. we live in the bay area and this hotel had been on our list. reminds me of a mix of kyoto and florence. i lived in japan for 4 years and appreciate the excellent hotel service. they greeted us as valued customers and allowed us to check in early. we enjoy architecture and design. it's an extremely comfortable place and the rooms feel great. the apple tv is smart, we logged into our youtube tv account and watched our content plus the warriors game. the bathroom floors are heated and there's a heated bidet. the coffee and tea were excellent. the hotel is only about 50 yards from the ocean. we're hikers and the walk to town, about a mile, is beautiful along the ocean. the walk around the point is stunningly beautiful. now the 2 big glaring deficiencies. 1) the bed is super soft. we prefer/require a firm mattress. i had a slipped disk decades ago and require firm/solid. i couldn't sleep all night. 2) the breakfast was a joke. it was your typical minimalist morsel. we each finished the quiche in 2 bites. we were both starved after eating. i hate these chic nothing breakfasts. europe and asia take pride in great breakfast experiences with ample portions. these 2 issues are deal breakers for us. it's unfortunate, such a strategic shortcoming at an otherwise incredible place. read more

Absolutely wonderful 5-day stay with my wife for a half-work half-relaxation trip to Carmel. Perfect location steps away from the beach. Lovely staff, especially Jonathan and Robert. It is in a residential area, so it is a 5-minute drive or a 10-minute (uphill) bike ride to the restaurants and shops of downtown Carmel. They have free bikes, which is very handy. Tasty breakfast. Good sized rooms, with nice views and that special sea air. Many places to sit and relax on patios outside, or inside with fireplaces. read more

My husband and I stayed here for our wedding anniversary for three nights and let me just say it was the best experience we have ever had at a b&b. Usually I am dying to go home and sleep in my own bed when I go on vacation, but truthfully, I couldn't have felt more at home- comfortable and safe- than if I had actually been at my own house. The design throughout the entire building is so thoughtfully curated and every corner is decorated so tastefully and beautifully. The fires are lit every morning and evening. Every night when we would arrive home we were greeted by the friendliest staff and a crackling fireplace...and they would offer us a slice of delicious cake and coffee and were accommodating for things we didn't even know we wanted. We were devastated when we checked out and we will absolutely be back! We were already looking at flights again haha. Thank you so much to the staff for being so kind and thoughtful with all the details. read more

We stayed here (well sort of). Our kids got sick and we had to cut the trip short. Nonetheless, I can tell you that the hotel is perfect - cute, luxurious and inviting. For context, we have stayed at La Playa (also very nice) and The Hideaway. My favorite part about the hotel is the staff - they were so accommodating and just really nice. I would whole-heartedly recommend this place and we will definitely be coming back. Great views of the sunset!!! read more

My husband and I came here to celebrate our 20 year wedding anniversary. This hotel exceeded my expectations! The staff was extremely friendly & accommodating! The hotel itself is GORGEOUS - so clean & new and feels like home. Lovely outdoor seating areas with fire pits (and blankets if you need them). Love all the complimentary touches - wine at the bar, continental breakfast and room snacks. (Unfortunately, my husband and I had to leave very early in the morning, before the continental breakfast starts, and they were so kind enough to set aside a couple of pastries for us to take on the road.) It was really nice returning back to the hotel in the evening and sitting at the bar warmly lit up by dim lighting and candlelight, chatting with Johnathan while we enjoyed a delicious pino. Super comfy bathrobes provided while staying as a guest. Lelabo Santal 33 products in the bathroom - yes please!! The hotel is literally just about a minute walk from the beach, and a very short distance, to all the shops and restaurants. However, in the evenings, since I was wearing high heels, walking was not in the cards for us lol. Getting an Uber to and from the restaurants was no problem at all. Overall an extremely wonderful stay and I cannot wait to go back!! I promise you will not be disappointed if you stay here, as a matter fact you may never want to leave!! read more

I can't even begin to convey how incredible our stay was at villa mara. I've been raving to friends for days about how exceptional the service and amenities at villa mara are. The owner was incredibly hospitable; it felt like we were staying at a friend's house. The decor is amazing and it really is such a relaxing and serene space. Every detail was so well thought out - for example our room had a custom built small dresser to house the mini fridge so there was 0 noise in the room. The bathrooms are amazing: heated floors, heated toilet seats, and all le labo products. The blinds were all electronic and the room was so dark. Communication was incredible. Breakfast was delicious and included in the room price. They also offered really nice complimentary wine. The owner even brought out caviar for us. One evening we were headed out to a winery. When we told him where we going, he called the owner/his friend and had champagne sent out for my friend's birthday. The fire pits were amazing. The staff also brought out blankets if you were cold. We borrowed the bikes and took a ride over to mission ranch and along the coast. The location is unbeatable. They truly went above and beyond. I've stayed at a lot of very nice hotels and this is by far the best hotel I have stayed at. My only regret was not staying longer! read more

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I cannot believe how amazing this hotel is. The hospitality and service is unprecedented. Everyone who works here treats you like family....wine and cocktails served as an amenity, incredible breakfast, high end furnishings and fire pits everywhere. You feel like family at a Luxary resort. One block from the beach and a great walk through million dollar neighborhood to town. Complimentary Bikes available for a quick ride to town. Everything is so stylish and well appointed. We are pretty picky when it comes to high end hotels and this fits the bill. You will not be disappointed when you stay here. The best place to stay in Carmel. The staff is amazing. George is the manager and treats everyone like gold, Jonathan is so caring and takes care of everyone's needs, and the owner Dev is so generous and just wants to have his property be the place that everyone enjoys and appreciates. He has done an incredible job of creating a perfect escape with every Luxary and amenity thought of in advance. Thank you for a perfect anniversary!!!!! read more

It is easy to run out of superlatives when talking about Villa Mara. Wonderful, elegant, friendly, tasteful, are all appropriate and readily come to mind. But they don't touch the real magic of Villa Mara, the myriad of tiny details that add up to luxury in design, decor, and thoughtfulness for each and every guest. We were greeted by text hours before we arrived, letting us know that they would have a welcoming drink and a warm fireplace ready when we got there. That thoughtfulness never let up during our 4 night stay. Every staff member is friendly, knowledgeable about Carmel, and eager to help in any way you might need it. Breakfast is casual, but all the special luxuries are still on board: real croissants, freshly squeezed orange juice, a designer mix of tea just for you, and generous portions of your choice of quiche, fruit, or granolas. Run, don't walk to book your special stay at Villa Mara. read more