Pebble Beach
Courtesy Monterey Convention & Visitor's Bureau

The Monterey Peninsula is a natural wonderland, from the broad expanse of the Monterey Bay to the canyon-like Carmel Valley and the glories of the Pacific Coast Highway to the south. Of course, this is a world-class golf destination, but the wine here is great too and should not be overlooked. The area is perfect for group leisure trips, but is also ideal for executive retreats, customer hospitality and other corporate group travel. One would expect superb, wide-ranging accommodations and exceptional cuisine, and this special region does not disappoint.

The Pebble Beach complex, a CORK & TEE Destination, is a wonderful blend of modern and legendary golf. While the world famous Pebble and Spyglass courses need no introduction, the Links at Spanish Bay is an equally challenging and delightful experience, and a good introduction to golf on the peninsula. After the first eight holes along the Pacific the course enters the Del Monte Forest, returning to the ocean for the final five holes.

Inland, you might want to try your luck at Carmel Valley Ranch, a recently-renovated Pete Dye design. The valley views here are stunning, and unlike many Dye designs, CVR is a bit more forgiving for the mid-to-high handicapper. As a bonus, the golf staff provides impeccable service.

At the north end of the bay, Pasatiempo awaits. This semi-private club, designed in the 1920’s by Dr. Alister MacKenzie, is perched above the eclectic town of Santa Cruz. Pasatiempo is a classic parkland-style course that will force you to use each club in your bag. Friendly members and staff will make you feel like you are a club member for the day.

The winemakers in this area are friendly too and so is the wine. Monterey-area Pinot Noir and Chardonnay can be spectacular—particularly the product coming out of the Santa Lucia Highlands and Santa Cruz Mountains AVAs. A handful of vineyards produce the very best and we can show you how and why. This is unpretentious, off-the-beaten path wine country with a very agricultural feel, which is not surprising since a wide variety of produce is grown here year-round. We might even demonstrate the proper technique for preparing fresh artichokes.

Contact us so we may have the privilege of handcrafting your CORK & TEE travel experience.