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CARMEL VALLEY RANCH ACTIVITY FIELD GUIDE

BEE HAPPYBEE EXPERIENCE(90 minutes; $75 Adults, $50 Ages 6–12, with adult)Our signature activity! Make a beeline for the apiary. Suit up with one of our Ranch Beekeepers for a visit to our hives, home to 60,000 Italian honeybees. Included is a taste of honey straight from the hive, as well as a lavender beeswax gift for each person.

BEYOND THE HIVES WITH JOHN RUSSO(90 minutes; $60 per person; Ages 14+)In this fascinating multimedia presentation, our resident beekeeper John Russo shares his research using radio telemetry to record the movement of his bees, monitor the health of these important pollinators, track the effects of pesticides and other environmental factors, and study the subsequent repercussions on honey production. Complimentary cheese and honey will be served.

HONEY HARVEST DEMONSTRATION(August-September; 90 minutes; $35 Adults; $25 12 & under)Join Beekeeper John Russo for this exciting moment in the Honey Cycle. We will bring in panels straight from the hives and use an extractor to gather the tiny drops of golden honey embedded in the comb. Enjoy a lecture on bee science and go home with a gift from our happy bees.

HONEY TASTING(August-September; 60 minutes; Complimentary)Join us in the Lodge Lobby for a complimentary taste of “Carmel Valley Ranch Gold” to kick off the Honey Harvest Weekend. Our Beekeepers will be there to share fun facts about the harvest season.

OUTDOOR ADVENTUREARCHERY: BEGINNER CLASS(90 minutes; $50, Ages 12+)Nock, draw, loose! Archery has come to The Ranch with a “twang.” Learn this ancient sport from our master instructor at our beautiful target shooting practice area.

BIRDING WALK(60–90 minutes; Complimentary)Join our Birding Expert on an informative hike in search of The Ranch’s flightiest residents—the seasonal and year-round birds flitting, soaring, singing, chirping, and strutting around the property. We’ll supply the binoculars; you bring your eagle-eye and patience. Beginners welcome!

DISCOVER GEOCACHING!(90 minutes; $35 Adults, $25 Ages 12 & under, with adult; Recommended for ages 7+)Tiny treasures are hidden around The Ranch! Whether you’re new to geocaching—the worldwide high-tech treasure hunt—or an old pro, you’ll love using our specially programmed GPS devices and clever clues to find five caches placed strategically around the property. Fun for explorers young and old! Self-Guided Geocaching also available upon request.

FIRESIDE FUN WITH THE NATURALIST(Fridays; 60 minutes; Complimentary)Join our Naturalist at the s’mores pit for Nature Show & Tell, marshmallow roasting tips, and more!

FORAGING: THE WILD BUFFET(90 minutes; $35 adults, $25 ages 12 & under; recommended for ages 12+)What wonders does the forest hold? Join our Naturalist on a hike around the property in search of the useful and edible plants all around us. Which common landscaping plant can be used to make a guava flavored jam? Which herb’s tea promises wild dreams? Enjoy our picturesque setting while you learn about the ancient art that is experiencing a renaissance with foodies around the globe. Cap off the hike with a taste of tea brewed from plants foraged along the way!

HIKING AT THE RANCH Get to know the trails of Carmel Valley Ranch and surrounding hills on a guided hike with our Naturalist. Private on- and off-property hikes, including excursions to Point Lobos State Reserve and Garland Park, available upon request with 24-hour notice.

Horseshoe Loop (60 minutes; Complimentary) Join our Naturalist on a leisurely, family-friendly walk to enjoy stunning views of The Ranch as you learn about our 500-acre playground. Easy to moderate difficulty.Ridge Views(90-110 minutes; Complimentary) Take a brisk hike up the Horseshoe and Mucklehead Trails to the spectacular ridge above The Ranch, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the valley below. Recommended for ages 7+. Moderate difficulty.Sunset Point (60 minutes; Complimentary) Explore our beautiful property in the waning light, taking in panoramic views of Carmel Valley and the ocean in the dis-tance on this hike up to the Hilltop Corral above The Ranch. It’s the perfect way to end the week—and start your vacation! Easy to moderate difficulty.

MEDITATION WALK(90 minutes; Complimentary)Relax your body and quiet your mind with a gentle walk to a peaceful spot, where you’ll be guided through a meditation focused on reflection, relaxation, and intention. Perfect for those who are new to meditation or those with a consistent practice.

NATURE WALK(60 minutes; Complimentary)Join our Naturalist on a gentle walk around the property, learning about the unique plants and animals that inhabit our 500-acre playground.

WHERE THE WILDFLOWERS ARE(March-May; 60 minutes; Complimentary)Join our Naturalist on a gentle walk around the property, learning about the plants popping up this time of year. From fiesta flower to fairy lantern, from stork’s beak to sticky monkey, you’ll discover the fascinating adaptations behind the whimsical names of our favorite flowers.

HILLTOP CORRALTHE ART OF BEING WITH HORSES(90 minutes; $60; Ages 8+; Under 8 with adult)You don’t have to ride a horse to spend quality time with one. Enjoy simply “hanging out” and connecting with these peaceful and playful animals. Through activities such as grooming, leading, and learning about horse behavior and herd dynamics, you’ll relax and release any stress you’re carrying. Perfect for those who may be uneasy around horses, and a great first step before riding.

HORSEPLAY(90 minutes; $60 per person; Ages 8+)Experience the fun you can have with a horse, without even saddling up! Activities include building an obstacle course and guiding your horse through it, using your horse as a canvas for a colorful painting, and pairing up for horse-and-hand relay races. We’ll be safe but we’ll have plenty of fun horsing around!

KIDDIE CORRAL(60 minutes; $65 + 10% service charge; Ages 2-7, with adult; Private party option available)Just right for our Junior Wranglers! Head on up to the Hilltop Corral for a pony ride, roping lesson, cowboy arts & crafts, and more. Advance reservations required for shuttle to Corral.

TRAIL RIDES & LESSONS AT THE RANCHOur herd of horses is ready to take you for a ride!

Chaparral Loop Trail Ride(60 minutes; $140+10% service charge; Ages 8+)This rambling ride explores the hillsides, meadows, and oak woodlands above The Ranch, with a sidetrip toward a grove of towering redwoods.Sunset Trail Ride(60 minutes; $190+10% service charge; Ages 8+)What’s more romantic than riding off into the sunset with your special someone? Explore the hillsides of Carmel Valley in the waning light. Western Beginner Lessons(60 minutes; $170+10% service charge; Ages 8+)Saddle up for a western-style riding lesson! Instruction includes walking, trotting, and cantering; grooming, haltering, and tacking; equine behavior; and safety. Reservations required.

ARTS & CRAFTSBEADED JEWELRY MAKING WORKSHOP(90 minutes; $50 Adults, $35 Ages 12 & under)Come relax and engage your inner mixed-media artist. We’ll provide the beads and tools. Our instructors will guide you through the process of creating a beautiful necklace, bracelet, or earrings.

BEESWAX CANDLE MAKING WORKSHOP(60 minutes; $50 Adults, $35 Ages 12 & under; Under 12 with adult)Create a custom candle using the natural bounty of The Ranch. Select an essential oil—including our own lavender oil—and combine it with herbs and blossoms from the Organic Garden. Sink it all in hot wax to create a memento of your stay here.

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All programs and prices subject to change. Please call the Activities Office at 831.626.2577 for more information and reservations.

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RUSTIC RANCH BOUQUETS(60 minutes; $50 Adults, $35 Ages 12 & under; Under 12 with adult; Recommended for ages 6+)Learn how to arrange your own stunning flower bouquet, using blossoms, herbs, greens, and dried flowers from our Organic Garden and beyond. We’ll begin with a stroll through the Garden to learn about the many flower varieties we grow. Then you’ll pick your own from a seasonal selection and arrange it all in a rustic vase.

SILKSCREENING WORKSHOP(60 minutes; $50 Adults, $35 Ages 12+; Under 12 with adult)From ancient Japan to Andy Warhol’s factory, people have used silkscreening to make beautiful prints for centuries. Explore your artsy side and design your own silk-screened tote bag or t-shirt to take home. Recommended for ages 5+.

ALIVE IN THE GARDEN ASK THE FARMER(Saturdays; Drop-in hours 9:00–11:00a; Complimentary)Take a 30-minute tour of our beautiful Garden with Farmer Mark and learn all about the program that provides our Restaurant and Spa with delicious and organic ingredients.

CHICKEN CHAT!(30 minutes; Complimentary; Under 12 with adult)Come to the Hen House in our Organic Garden and meet our lovely ladies—Rhode Island Red, Sussex, Americauna, Wayne’s Island, and Marans chickens—to see what all the clucking is about! And don’t forget your cameras, because these hens do like to entertain us with their antics.

GARDEN HARVEST PARTY(July-August; 120 minutes; Complimentary)Join the fun with Farmer Mark Marino and the Hens of Carmel Valley Ranch as we host an open-house-style Garden Party. Participate in a beer tasting and a salt tasting, take a tour of the Garden, and much more. Come find out what the clucking is about!

ORGANIC GARDEN TOUR(30 minutes; Complimentary; Under 12 with adult)Where can you feed chickens, chase butterflies, pick herbs, taste salt crystals, and discover how last night’s salad sprouted to life? It’s all happening in the Organic Garden! Enjoy a guided walk to learn more about this magical place, where every season brings new things to see and do.

JUST JUNIOR RANCHERS BUSY BEES(Daily; 60–240 minutes; $20/hour per child; Lunch available for additional charge)Perfect for our youngest campers, ages 2–5, who might not want to be away from Mom or Dad for too long. The program is offered on an hourly basis and provides a schedule of fun, educational activities. Parent must be available for diaper change.

KIDS’ NIGHT OUT(Weekends; 6:00p–10:00p; $60, including dinner)Our evening program for children ages 5–12 features dinner, games, movies, arts and crafts, ping pong, foosball, Wii, and more. Kids have fun while parents enjoy grown-up time!

RANCH HANDS KIDS’ CAMP(Weekends year-round; Daily summer; 9:00a–5:00p, $125; 9:00a–1:00p or 1:00p–5:00p, $80)Featuring the perfect blend of activities for kids ages 6 to 12—including swimming, hiking, tennis, golf, crafts, music, and more. Lunch is included in the morning session, while sports instruction with the Pros takes place in the afternoon.

FITNESS & WELLNESSBARRE FLOW (50 minutes; Complimentary)This class is similar to our Barre Strength class, but with a meditation added at the end to reflect on personal intention and leave feeling recentered.

BARRE STRENGTH(50 minutes; Complimentary)This class integrates interval training, isometrics, and the science of physical therapy. Call the night before to reserve your spot. Space is limited.

BODYPUMP™(50 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)The original barbell class that challenges all major muscle groups! You’ll burn fat and produce lean muscle. Call the night before to reserve your spot.

BODY SCULPTING(50 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)Transform your body using weights, balls, and bands. Timeless moves like push-ups, sit-ups, and old-school calisthenics will define, condition, and strengthen all your major muscle groups.

CANDLELIT YOGA(75 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)Dive deeply into the powerful healing of Hatha Yoga, as you unwind by the warm glow of candlelight. Mats and towels provided.

CIRCUIT TRAINING(40 minutes; Complimentary)This high-rep, low-weight workout with short rest intervals is geared toward toning and defining muscles while improving cardiovascular fitness. Please inform instructor of pre-existing injuries.

CORE, STRENGTH, & BALANCE(30 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)A low impact class designed to improve core strength and balance, utilizing a variety of equipment. Ideal for beginners.

CYCLING AND CIRCUIT(55 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)Get your heart rate up with 30 minutes of cycling on M3 Keiser trainers, followed by 25 minutes of circuit training focusing on a high-rep, low-weight workout and TRX suspension training focusing on range of motion. All bikes are equipped with toe clips and SPD pedals.

CIRCUIT BARRE(50 minutes; Complimentary)Be prepared for a challenge! Complete a circuit that mixes isometric barre moves, heart-pumping strength moves and, of course, stretching to achieve long, lean muscles. Modifiable for any level. Bring running shoes (for warm-up), a towel, mat and water.

GUIDED RELAXATION(30 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)This class allows you to find deep relaxation through stillness, as you are guided into internal levels of peace.

H20 BOOT CAMP (45 minutes; Complimentary)A high-intensity water workout designed to improve cardiovascular strength and endurance.

H20 FLOW (45 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)This low-impact workout takes place in our warm saltwater pool.

HATHA YOGA(50 or 75 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)This integrated yoga experience focuses on the use of breath as a tool for connecting traditional yoga poses. Mats and towels provided.

INDOOR CYCLING(55 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)You’ll never get left behind during our indoor cycling class! Call the night before to reserve your spot.

MINDFUL MEDITATION(30 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)This guided meditation is a powerful experience in the present moment, becoming in tune with one’s body. Allow yourself to feel deeper levels of peace and groundedness.

MUSCLE BASICS(45 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)With a focus on core stabilization and balance, this class is perfect for older adults or those just starting an exercise program. You’ll increase strength and flexibility using hand weights, bosu ball, and TRX equipment.

OUTDOOR YOGA(90 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)This special outdoor class begins with an invigorat-ing hike to our platform overlooking Robinson Canyon. There, you’ll enjoy an integrated yoga experience while taking in spectacular views of the Santa Lucia mountains. Mats and towels provided.

PILATES MAT(50 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)A body/mind exercise system developed by Joseph Pilates to strengthen muscles, increase flexibility, and improve overall health. Pilates mat classes fo-cus on strengthening the core, improving balance, increasing coordination, and decreasing stress. Mats provided.


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RESTORATIVE YOGA(75 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)Gently strengthen and relax with revitalizing yoga poses and simple breathing techniques.

RESTORATIVE YIN YOGA(75 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)In this slower paced practice, yoga postures are held for an extended period in order to open the connective tissues of the body, improve circulation, and reduce stress. This class will feature components of both yin and restorative poses for deep relaxation.

R.I.P.P.E.D.(50 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)This total body, high-intensity program masterfully combines the components of Resistance, Intervals, Power, Plyometrics and Endurance, along with Diet suggestions, to help you attain and maintain your physique in ways that are fun, safe, doable and extremely effective.

SCULPT EXPRESS(30 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)A shorter version of our Body Sculpt class, us-ing weights, balls, bands, and timeless moves like push-ups, sit-ups, and old-school calis-thenics to define, condition, and strengthen all major muscle groups.

STRENGTH, AGILITY, & BALANCE(45 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)This non-impact movement class increases cardiovascular and muscular endurance, strength, agility, and coordination, while improving range of motion and balance. Equipment provided.

STRETCHING AND FOAM ROLLING(30 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)This class focuses on the uses and benefits of self myofascial release—the release of tension in the body by massaging away tight knots. This practice also improves flexibility and circulation, as participants stretch the entire body.

SUPER SCULPT(50 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)This class offers a combination of strength and cardio, while boosting your metabolism and chal-lenging your endurance. Strength-training exer-cises such as squats, lunges, and curls are used to build lean muscle mass.

TRX(50 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)The newest evolution in “functional training,” TRX focuses on improving core strength, muscular endurance, and range of motion. Please call starting at 7:00p the night before to reserve your spot.

TRX, BATTLE ROPE, & CIRCUIT (50 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)TRX suspension training focuses on improving core strength and muscular endurance while increasing range of motion. Battle rope enhances core stability and provides full body conditiong. Class limit is 8. Call the night before to reserve your spot.

YIN YOGA(75 minutes; Complimentary; All levels welcome)In this slower paced practice, yoga postures are held for an extended period in order to open the connective tissues of the body, improve circulation, and reduce stress. This class will feature components of both yin and restorative poses for deep relaxation.

TENNIS, ANYONE?CARDIO TENNIS(60 minutes; $25 per hour)This is a high-energy program in which you’ll increase your heart rate while rapidly hitting tennis balls. Drills are designed to warm you up first and then move you into your training.

DOUBLES TENNIS MIXER(120 minutes; Complimentary)Meet new people and enjoy friendly competition in this social round robin, changing opponents and partners. Our PBI Pros will set you up.

JUNIOR TENNIS CAMPS(45–180 minutes; Prices vary; Advance registration required)A fun-filled program that will teach your child to love the lifetime sport of tennis. Each camp focuses on the FUNdamentals of the game, with drills and strategies for singles and doubles play. Open to resort guests, members, and area residents. A 3-student minimum is needed to hold each camp. Space is limited.

Peewees: Monday & Wednesday, 2:00p–2:45p; Ages 4–6; $30/week, $18/dayFuture Stars: Tuesday–Thursday, 2:00p–3:00p; Ages 6–9; $55/week, $28/dayTournament Prep: Monday–Thursday, 3:00p–5:00p; Ages 10 & up; $170/week, $48/day

TENNIS CLINIC: BASELINE GAME(60 minutes; $25)Our PBI Pros have created drills that will cover the techniques of the strokes as well as strategies to use when playing from the baseline. The focus is on the forehand and backhands.

TENNIS CLINIC: MID-COURT GAME(60 minutes; $25)The one place you don’t want to get caught is the mid-court, also known as “no-man’s land.” Our PBI Pros will focus on what shots to use when caught here, as well as how to not get caught in the first place!

TENNIS CLINIC: NET GAME(60 minutes; $25)This clinic covers the strokes and strategies of an effective net game, including the volley, half-volley, and overhead smash.

TENNIS CLINIC: SERVE AND RETURN GAME(60 minutes; $25)The two most important shots in tennis are the serve and return of serve. This class covers the technique of both and simplifies the fundamentals and strategies behind each of them.

TENNIS CLINIC: SINGLES/DOUBLES STRATEGY(90 minutes; $40)This dynamic clinic focuses on techniques for playing effective singles andr doubles.

TENNIS DRILLS: 4.0 INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED(Men’s: 90 minutes, $40; Women’s: 60 min. $25)This drill session is for players rated 4.0 or higher on the USTA rating scale. There is less focus on technique and more on active drills and strategy.

TENNIS DRILLS: PLAY WITH THE PRO(90 minutes; $40)This drill/play session with our Tennis Pro is for players rated 3.0–4.5 on the USTA rating scale. Emphasis is on playing points and strategy. Limited to 3 people.

FOR THE GOLF ENTHUSIASTGOLF CLINICS(Tuesday–Saturday; 150 minutes; $20)The Golf Academy at The Ranch offers a range of daily clinics throughout the year.. A 2-person minimum is required to hold each clinic; 2-hour advance registration is required. All levels welcome.

Tuesday: Chipping We’ll go over the grip, stance, posture, and keys to saving shots around the green. Wednesday: Putting The Pros will show you how to read the greens and will assist with distance control.Thursday: Bunker Game Bunker shots are the easiest shots in golf. We will show you the set-up and the correct ball position.Friday: Short Irons Hitting crisp iron shots is a great way to lower your score. Learn the secrets that will change your game.Saturday: Full swing Learn the grip, stance, posture, and keys to swinging properly time and time again.

LADIES GOLF CLINIC(60 minutes; $30)Take your game to the next level in this special clinic for all lady Members and Resort Guests, taught by Director of Instruction Todd Southard. Each week, a different aspect of the game will be covered. Advance registration is required; space is limited to six people.

FOOD & WINEPIZZA NIGHT AT RIVER RANCH(120 minutes; $15 per pizza)Experience a slice of life in the Valley! Join us for lawn games and wood-fired pizza straight from our Mobile Pizza Oven.

S’MORES (Nightly; Complimentary)Please, sir, may I have … s’more? Every evening we gather around the fire pit for these campfire classics. Join the ooey, gooey fun and share your tips for roasting the perfect marshmallows with friends new and old.


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WINE TASTING AT VALLEY KITCHEN(60 minutes; $25 per person)Taste the best of Monterey County’s wine offerings with the guidance of our certified Sommelier, Dave Eriksen. You’ll develop your palate as you learn about small-production local wines.

SEASONAL CELEBRATIONSSPRING

ST. PATRCK’S DAY WHISKEY DINNER++($85 with whiskey pairing, $65 dinner only)Carmel Valley Ranch and Pernod Ricard Whiskies invite you on a sensory trip around the Isles of Ireland and Scotland with a tasting of six of the rarest expressions of Whiskey. Join Chef Tim, Sommelier Dave, Kate Flanagan, and Master of Scotch Josh Gefland for a three-course dinner as you taste, talk, and learn everything whiskey.

EASTER EGG HUNT++(Easter Sunday; 30 minutes; Ages 2-12; Complimentary)Join us in the Organic Garden for one of our favorite traditions. We’ll have eggs full of treats hidden about the garden, plus a pony ring for rides and photos with our favorite friends from the Hilltop Corral!

EASTER BRUNCH(Easter Sunday; $75 adults, $35 ages 5–12, plus tax and service charge) This family-friendly brunch features all the holiday favorites, including fresh-carved honey-baked ham and prime rib, Pacific Northwest smoked salmon, sustainably raised seafood and sushi, hand-rolled omelets, Ranch eggs benedict, and fresh pastries, fruits, and veggies--plus a kids’ craft table to keep the little ones entertained.

PICK A POSY FOR MOM(Mother’s Day; Drop-in hours 9:00a–2:00p; Complimentary; Under 12 with adult)Stop by our blooming Organic Garden to pick a Mother’s Day bouquet of fresh flowers and herbs for that special mom in your life. Farmer Mark will help you choose the perfect arrangement for her—or you!

DINNER IN THE ORGANIC GARDEN(Memorial Day; 180 minutes; $50 Adults, $25 12 & under)Enjoy a casual dinner in the glow of the setting sun, featuring a delicious garden-fresh buffet, music, & games for the whole family.

MEMORIAL WEEKEND BARBECUE(Sunday; $30 for BBQ; Activities complimentary)Kick off the summer with a Memorial Day Weekend tradition! Festivities begin with family races and games, followed by Doug the Surfing Magician’s magic show, face-painting, and live music. For the barbeque, order up your choice of ribs, brats, or chicken plus sides from the River Ranch Cafe.

SUMMER

SUMMER MUSIC SERIES(Saturdays; 120 minutes; Complimentary)Enjoy live acoustic music in the Valley Kitchen restaurant. Artists will vary.

FATHERS’ DAY CAPTURE THE FLAG & PIZZA BAR(Father’s Day; 180 minutes; $15 per pizza)Grab the kids and come down to the River Ranch for a special afternoon of Capture the Flag, pizza hot from our mobile oven, and beer on tap for Dad.

BOURBON & BBQ PIG ROAST++($75 dinner & drinks, $55 dinner only; Ages 21+)Celebrate Father’s Day in style on the Vintner Terrace, with a barbeque from Chef Tim befitting all the #1 Dads out there. Somellier Dave will be pouring rare and exciting bourbons, rye whiskeys and hand-crafted whiskey-based cocktails. Seating is limited; reservations highly recommended.

4TH OF JULY BARBECUE(July 4; $30 for BBQ; Activities complimentary)Celebrate Independence Day, Ranch-style! Family Games begin at 1:30p with a pie-eating contest, water-balloon toss, strolling magician, face painter, and live music by local band David Holodiloff Trio. Of course, it wouldn’t be the 4th without firing up the grill! From 4:00p to 7:00p, enjoy a choice of ribs, brats, or chicken, plus corn on the cob, coleslaw, and cornbread for $30 per person.

LAVENDER HARVEST & TEA(120 minutes; $50 Adults, $35 Ages 12 & under)Lavender Agronomist John Russo will take you back in time for a delightful Lavender Harvest and High Tea in the beautiful Organic Garden. We’ll harvest some of our most fragrant Lavender and use it to make tea bags out of natural fiber sachets. Delicious morsels from the kitchen and a spectacular view of the surrounding hills tie this lovely afternoon up with a proverbial velvet bow.

YOU-PICK LAVENDER HARVEST & DISTILLATION(90 minutes; $35 per person)A truly unique opportunity to participate in ourdistillation and essential oil blending process oflavender—from stem and root to oil and hydrosol!Carmel Valley Ranch is home to 7,000 lavender plants, of two different varieties. Help with the harvesting process and learn all about the production of essential oils. Participants will take home their own bottle of essential oil.

AUTUMN

VINEYARD WALK & TALK(45 minutes; Complimentary)Explore the Vineyard and Olive Grove on this stroll with our Naturalist, enjoying views of the property and learning about the singular climate and soil composition that differentiate our local vineyards and wine production.

HARVEST CELEBRATION AT RIVER RANCH(240 minutes; $60 adults, $30 ages 12 & under) A rollicking community event including wine-label designing, seed spitting, and live music! Local artisans and vintners will be on hand with small

tastings to showcase their goodies. At 5:00p we’ll fire up the wood-burning pizza oven and BBQ stations.

SOMMELIER’S WINE HARVEST LUNCHEON(120 minutes; $65)The ultimate wine country lunch on the Terrace overlooking the Vineyard features the Sommerlier’s picks from around the world, including local favorites, and a harvest-fresh menu served Ranch Family Style. This playful lunch is hosted by a few of the best Sommeliers in Monterey, including our own Dave Eriksen.

HALLOWEEN FAMILY CELEBRATION(October 31; 180 minutes; Complimentary) Join us for Halloween fun and games, including pumpkin painting, mask making, and other silly surprises. Later, wear your mask creation to the S’mores Pit at the Lodge to get a treat from Teeny Halloweeny, the Bee Fairy!

HALLOWEEN FIRESIDE FUN WITH THE BEE FAIRY(October 31; 90 minutes; Complimentary) Stop by the S’mores Pit to meet our very own Teeny Halloweeny, the Bee Fairy! She’ll be on hand with her box of nature tricks, marshmallow magic, and a tiny treat for each person who greets her wearing a mask or costume.

THANKSGIVING BUFFET (Thanksgiving Day; $55 adults, $25 ages 5–12, plus tax and service charge)This family-friendly brunch features all the clas-sics, Ranch style— from apple-cider-brined turkey to thyme & sage stuffing, from cinnamon citrus cranberry sauce to green beans with toasted al-monds, from maple roasted butternut squash soup to pumpkin pie straight from our Organic Garden.

ANNUAL DO-IT-YOURSELF HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIRE (Day after Thanksgiving; 180 minutes; $40 adults, $30 ages 12 & under; Open to the public)Join us for this interactive gift-making tradition. Enjoy refreshments and music while you create a festive holiday wreath, a custom scent or lip balm, or a fragrant potpourri sachet from herbs grown on property. Or try your hand at rolling beeswax candles, designing bead jewelry, or making personalized holiday ornaments and table decorations. Admission includes three tickets to participate in three crafts of your choice, as well as one raffle ticket.

OAK TREE LIGHTING & FAMILY PORTRAITS(Saturday after Thanksgiving; 120 minutes; Complimentary)Mark the beginning of the Winter Holidays, and join us for a very special tree-lighting ceremony. We will be lighting the ancient and beautiful oak tree that reigns supreme in front of the Lodge. Santa will be visiting us and will be available for family photos under the tree.


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WINTER

12 DAYS OF HOLIDAY COOKIES(120 minutes; Complimentary) Celebrate the season with a different traditional holiday cookie on each night leading to Christmas. These homemade delights come from old family recipes gathered from our talented, multinational Ranch Team. Sample the goodies while you read about the people and stories behind them.

CAROLING IN THE LODGE(120 minutes; Complimentary)Join us in the Lobby as local singing groups serenade us with holiday classics. Everyone is invited to sing along!

CHANUKAH CELEBRATION AT THE LODGE(90 minutes; Complimentary)Help us light the menorah and celebrate the Festival of Lights with games, crafts, songs, and—of course—homemade latkes and other delicious noshes. Carmel Valley’s own Rabbi Bruce will be on hand to tell the wondrous story of the miracle of Chanukah. Open to Members and Guests.

HOLIDAY COOKIE BAKING CLASS(120 minutes; $60 adults, $40 Ages 12 & under; Under 12 with adult)Join our Pastry Team for a nostalgic holiday cookie-baking class. We’ll work through various recipes and discuss the virtues of sugar, spice, and all things nice.

GINGERBREAD HOUSE WORKSHOP(120 minutes; $50 per house) Come get your hands sticky and build an enchanting gingerbread house! We provide the candies, frosting, and gingerbread—you provide the creativity and perseverance.

GOIN’ ON A SANTA HUNT! (120 minutes; Complimentary)Santa Claus has come to the Ranch—catch him if you can! Enjoy a family-friendly scavenger hunt around the property, using clues that lead you from Elf to Elf to Santa himself! We’ll also be offering family portraits with the big man himself, plus crafts, snacks, and more!

NUTCRACKER HOLIDAY TEA(90 minutes; $60 adults, $40 12 & under)This event combines performance, participation, storytelling, and even sword fighting. Meet the young stars of Dance Kids of Monterey’s The Nutcracker, and learn a scene from the famous ballet. Tea will be served, with complimentary champagne for the adults. A portion of the proceeds goes to Dance Kids of Monterey County, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing local youth with dance and theater arts opportunities.

‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS…(Christmas Eve; 60 minutes; Complimentary)Gather around for a very Ranchy tradition. Read by one of our own Ranch Hands, the classic tale of magic and wonder comes to life on this winter afternoon by the warmth of the Lobby hearth.

HAPPY, HUNGRY, HEALTHY: COOKING FOR THENEW YEAR(120 minutes; $75; Recommended for adults)Come spend some quality time with Chef Wood and his culinary team, and learn a few new recipes to start the year right. This class will feature hands-on knife skills and two in-class recipes for a healthful new year. Recommended for adults, or aspiring chefs age 13 & older. Reservations required; space is limited.

HEALTHY HOLIDAY SURVIVAL WORKSHOP (90 minutes; $40)Survive the holidays without feeling deprived, gaining weight, or wreaking havoc on your health! Yoga Instructor Michael Simpson and Nutritionist Cate Ritter will give you the tools and recipes you need to calm the mind, feed the soul, and reduce seasonal stress.

HOLIDAY MIXOLOGY(90 minutes; $50 Adults only)Learn, taste, shake, and repeat! Our Ranch Mixologists will help you bring good cheer to all with the perfect libations and classic holiday cocktails. Enjoy a nibble and a few toasts with friends new and old.

HOLIDAY BURN-OFF HIKE(December 25 & January 1; 120 minutes; Complimentary)Burn off those holiday calories and start the New Year right! Join us for one of our longer and more strenuous hikes to the top of Snively’s Ridge, enjoying breathtaking views of the entire Carmel River Valley. Recommended for adults and children over 12. Pet friendly for seasoned trail dogs.

HOT APPLE CIDER IN THE LODGE(Daily, Dec. 15-Jan. 2; Complimentary)Gather around with your fellow Ranchers for a steaming cup of hot cider, and exchange memories of your day.

NEW YEAR’S EVE BUFFET(December 31; $80 adults, $37 children 12 and under, plus tax and 21% service charge)Ring in the New Year with a refined yet relaxed buffet dinner. Enjoy hors d’ouevres and a Welcome Reception starting at 6:00, followed by dinner seating at 7:00p. You’ll be treated to an amazing feast of ocean-fresh shellfish, natural prime rib of beef, locally grown vegtables, and much more. At 9:00, we’ll host an East Coast Countdown with dancing and dessert.

NEW YEAR’S EVE: DANCING IN THE DINING ROOM(December 31; Complimentary)Dinner, dancing, and toasting--the essentials of a New Year’s Eve celebration! We’ll have live music in the Lodge Lobby and Restaurant until 9:30p, followed by dance music for the night owls through midnight.

WINTER HOLIDAY EVENING PROGRAMS(6:00p-9:00p; Price varies)For the Winter Holidays, we’ve created evening activities so you and your family can play together each night. You can even order food to dine while you play! Or, leave your kids in our hands while you slip away for some grown-up time. Children ages 5 and up can stay with the Kids’ Camp Staff for $40 each, plus dinner.

Bingo & Musical Chairs: An evening of entertaining games, prizes, and laughs! Room Service is available for those who wish to order dinner.Dinner & a Movie: Family-friendly holiday-themed movie, popcorn, a full bar, and dinner available for those who wish to dine!Holiday Kids’ Night Out ($40, not including dinner)A special Kids’ Night Out program, where kids can order dinner watch a movie, play games, participate in themed crafts, & enjoy time with new friends!

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