Ever since my now teenage kids were littles, I have relished the opportunity to create “Mom & Me” time with each individually – small outings to spend one-on-one. Local library events, stops for frozen yogurt, a movie matinee (anything Marvel with my son and every Disney princess with my daughter). These days the dates look more like sushi lunches and strolls through the shopping mall, but I recently managed to arrange a bit more elaborate adventure.
As our son quickly approaches his senior year in high school, I took advantage of spring break to arrange an extra special treat in one of our family’s favorite day trip destinations – La Jolla – with an overnight stay at The Lodge at Torrey Pines.
Situated atop the rugged cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this AAA Five Diamond rated resort stands as a testament to timeless luxury and natural beauty. Set against the backdrop of the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course and adjacent to the breathtaking Torrey Pines State Reserve, this distinguished retreat offers a harmonious blend of exquisite architecture, unparalleled hospitality, and captivating surroundings.
Designed in the spirit of the renowned Arts and Crafts movement, The Lodge exudes a sense of warmth and intimacy. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the property’s architecture pays homage to the rich heritage of the California Craftsman style, with handcrafted woodwork, stone accents, and expansive windows that frame panoramic views of the Pacific coastline.
Each of the lodge’s 170 guest rooms and suites is a sanctuary of refined comfort, featuring Stickley-style furniture, fabrics and leathers. Our generously sized guest room was appointed with Egyptian cotton linen and plush quilted duvets, luxurious granite and marble bathroom with an oversized tub, fireplace and the piece d resistance – a private balcony overlooking the gorgeous golf course and sparkling azure ocean views – perfect for a leisurely room service breakfast.
Open Air (and Indoor) Endeavors
Neither of us happen to be super outdoorsy, but our stay provided the perfect blend of indoor luxury and outdoor relaxation. Guests can borrow e-bikes to tool around the property and La Jolla at large, play an (in our case extremely competitive) game of croquet on the lawn, take a dip in the heated pool (with underwater speakers!), or practice skills on the putting green.
My son had fun educating his mother on the correct form for weighlifting in the Lodge’s state-of-the-art fitness facility featuring TechnoGym equipment. For my part, my daily exercise routine leans more toward brisk walking, so I was thrilled for the opportunity to traverse the meandering paths and rugged terrain of the Torrey Pines State Reserve when signing up for a morning a guided tour. Working toward my 10,000 steps that day was defined by rare Torrey pine trees, towering sandstone cliffs, sweeping ocean views, fragrant coastal sage scrub and chaparral and abundant birdlife in the salt marshes below.
In addition to the abundant activities and dining on delicious woodfired dishes at The Grill, there was plenty of quality time to learn about things that interest my son, his plans for the future and all the excitement to come down the road. And we couldn’t have asked for a better backdrop of understated elegance and coastal charm.
