Carmel Valley is a quaint country village nestled along the foothills of the Santa Lucia mountains. Ideal for the untourist looking for the unrushed, unbeaten path stretching eastward along the Carmel River, exuding that quiet country charm so difficult to find in today’s urban landscape. Your 12-mile drive on Carmel Valley Road begins at scenic Highway 1, following the Carmel River while offering a unique scenic landscape all its own. The beautiful countryside is dotted with horse ranches and vineyards offering opportunities for delicious food, entertainment, championship golf courses, shopping, and wine tasting. Discover the warmth of the climate, as well as the friendly people who make up this charming community. Carmel Valley is the ideal location for memories that last a lifetime.
Garland Ranch Regional Park (2.7 miles east) Dog-friendly Garland Ranch Regional Park in Carmel Valley is a popular spot for leisure hiking. Breathtaking views lie around every corner of this 4,462-acre park, with trails varying from easy to strenuous. Notable features at Garland Ranch Regional Park include the Carmel River, Garzas Creek, a redwood canyon, and a charming waterfall. Visit www.mprpd.org/garland-ranch-regional-park for more information.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (14 miles east) Point Lobos has been called “the greatest meeting of land and sea in the world”. You can often see otters, sea lions and seals during your walk along the coastline and explore the history of archeological sites including the small cabin at Whaler’s Cove that dates from the turn of the century. It is great for hiking, picnic spots, vistas, and wildlife. This majestic spot is easily accessible; just drive south on Highway 1 three miles from Carmel. Visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve for more information.
Big Sur Guides & Hiking – Specializing in personalized adventure for individuals, families, and groups. Hiking & picnic excursions; helicopter tours; whale watching; aquarium tours; world-class golfing; sailing cruises; kayaking; paddle boarding; bicycling; lunch & wine tasting; shopping tours; Pebble Beach, Carmel & Big Sur driving tours and historic Monterey & museum tours. www.bigsurguides.com 831.594.1742 or email bigsurguides@msn.com
Earthbound Farm Farmstand (7.8 miles west) It may be hard to believe, but the world’s largest grower of organic produce started here! Earthbound Farm may have expanded, but their research and development farm is still located right at the edge of Carmel Valley. Take a tour of the Walking Labyrinth, visit the Cut-Your-Own Herb Garden, and stop by the farm stand to buy local, organic produce to take home. Serves breakfast and lunch daily. Visit About Our Farm Stand – earthboundfarm for more information.
Carmel Valley Farmer Market (5.5 miles west) Every Sunday you can visit the Farmer’s Market in the parking lot of Mid-Valley Center, on Carmel Valley Road between Doris & Berwick Drives, from 10am until 2pm. Look for the white tents! Visit Carmel Valley for more information.
Carmel Valley Community Park (0.2 miles east) The community park is dog friendly and has many picnic tables to enjoy lunch in the sun, a BBQ & Gazebo to host small gatherings, and a walking trail to the village.
Carmel Valley Historical Society (0.2 miles east) The History Center and its Museum are adjacent to the community park. It is kid-friendly and staffed by knowledgeable docents on duty on Saturdays from 1pm – 4pm and Sundays from 11pm – 2pm. Museum artifacts, photos, and memorabilia bring the Valley’s story to life—from its geologic beginnings and indigenous peoples to early settlers’ farms and iconic ranches. Visit carmelvalleyhistoricalsociety.org for more information.
The Quail & Olive (0.3 miles east) The boutique offers the highest quality, California-sourced olive oils, vinegars and specialty oils for tasting and purchase. It also offers olive-related items including skin care products, kitchen accouterments, cookbooks, and more. Open daily from 12-5pm. Visit The Quail and Olive or call 831.659.4288 for more information.
Patricia Qualls Contemporary Art (0.4 miles east) The exhibition workspace is 1600 square feet of color, with paintings from 24 inches to 10 feet tall. The gallery/studio is an innovative space for evoking feelings that go beyond words. Patricia Qualls believes the Genius that lives in everyone deserves to be honored and invited to be heard. Open daily 11am – 5pm. To visit please call to make an appointment 831.245.7117. You may also visit Patricia Qualls Gallery for more information.
Moto Talbott Motorcycle Museum (0.5 miles east) Founder Robb Talbott, a former art student, believes that “all things worthy of note were built with passion.” The motorcycles you find at Moto Talbott don’t conform to any one genre. There are pristine examples of iconic bikes, unrestored barn finds, and even the occasional chopper or minibike. You’ll also find artifacts from Robb’s rich family history in and around Carmel and the Old West, historic toys, and the occasional bicycle. Open on Saturday & Sunday 11am – 4pm. Visit Moto Talbott or call 831.659.5410 for more information.