With its shops, restaurants and galleries, the tony oceanfront burg of Del
Mar, just north of Torrey Pines, more resembles a European village than a
California town.
So the Grand Del Mar, a cozy 249-room Mediterranean-style resort, is of a
piece with its setting. The resort was inspired by the work of early 20th century architect
Addison Mizner, whose works included the original Cloister at the Sea Island
Resort in Georgia, as well as many of the mansions of Florida's Boca Raton and
Palm Beach.
But as much as the architecture asks to be appreciated, this is Southern
California, after all, and guests will be lured by the pull of the outdoors.
There are 37 miles of hiking, bike and horseback-riding trails at Los
Penasquitos Canyon Preserve, which sits next to the hotel, and four pools
catering to visitors of all ages.
Golfers will want to tackle Grand Golf Club, the only San Diego-area course
designed by Tom Fazio. The 7,160-yard layout winds through canyons and offers
the visual elegance long associated with Fazio while providing enough challenge
for anyone not competing in the nearby U.S. Open.
The clubhouse is also home to the resort's flagship dining experience at
Addison, named for the architect. Some of the highlights of the modern French
menu can include baked Scottish salmon in black truffle-miso broth and spring
lamb persille. The expected riches of California wines is bolstered by
selections from around the world. Those looking for more-casual fare can try the
Clubhouse Grill, have a snack at the poolside bar, or nibble on pastries at the
afternoon tee in the Library.
In all, guests at the Grand Del Mar will be enjoying themselves in a way that
contestants at nearby Torrey Pines surely will envy.
