If you’ve ever stayed in a hotel where you settled in immediately, felt right at home and had all the worries from the day just melt away the moment you walked into the lobby, then this hotel would fit you like a glove. The L’Auberge Del Mar Hotel & Spa in the San Diego area is one such property and with it’s newest renovations almost complete, it’s one place where you will long for well after you’ve checked out and driven away.
The property is part of the Destination Hotels & Resorts collection and has stood the test of time. The City of Del Mar was named in the late 1800’s by Ella Loop. She and husband, Theodore, owned a tent city by the beach which was also called Del Mar, Spanish for "by the sea". Theodore, worked as a contractor and engineer for the California Southern Railroad which arrived in Del Mar in 1882. He soon thereafter launched the new South Coast Land Company’s resort with the centerpiece being the Stratford Inn which is now the L’Auberge Del Mar.
Renovations included the lobby, restaurant, pool deck and guest rooms. Also a new Spa will open shortly. Striking and impressive was the new pool deck with the addition of fountains, cabanas, outdoor bar and large fire pit. Guests sat by the fire pit until rather late in the evening, quite comfortable even on a chilly night. The design lent itself to a feeling of elegance amid warmth and relaxation.
The new lobby bar was filled with guests enjoying a cocktail while watching for the latest score on the large flat screen, viewable from most of the lobby area. It appears that locals miss the very large fireplace that was removed to make room for this new bar. With design in mind, sometimes change is difficult to accept. But in this case, design clearly wins.
The new restaurant, Kitchen 1540, is headed by Executive Chef Paul McCabe. I always remembered the most fabulous breakfasts in this restaurant including the best bacon ever. I understand this has not been changed. The dinner menu contained many unique selections including things like small plates (sort of like tapas) and wonderful little spices and delectable items which accompanied several menu items. It was wonderfully creative and delicious while portions were plentiful.
Is this a shameless plug for the property — not at all. It’s simply an experience that had to be shared!
By Travel Mole’s own Frances Kiradjian
