Alli Talley

February 25, 2020

48 HOURS IN CARSON VALLEY

Alli Talley

February 25, 2020

There’s nothing we love more than discovering cities and towns that intrigue and inspire us. Last year we spent two nights in Carson Valley, Nevada with our pup Sally (you can read more about it here), and we couldn’t get enough. We decided we needed to return to Carson Valley at least one more time before the baby comes, and we’re SO glad we did. It’s the kind of place that feels remote, but is surprisingly easy to get to. It’s 20 minutes from Tahoe (SO close to the slopes!), 45 minutes from Reno, and Carson City is an easy 15 minutes away. Yet Carson Valley feels refreshingly off-the-map… and that’s exactly why we like it.

Here’s what we did this time around, and what we think you should do too (especially if you only have 48 hours to spare).

AFTERNOON

Check into the Carson Valley Inn :: Located in the heart of Minden, The Carson Valley Inn and Casino is the perfect home base for all of your Carson Valley adventures. They have everything - from spacious rooms, to nightly entertainment, a luxe indoor pool and spa, restaurants, and of course… a state of the art casino! Spend your afternoon leisurely exploring and enjoying the facilities, and why not try your hand at blackjack?

EVENING

Dinner at Khristopher’s Cafe :: This cozy Italian eatery is a favorite among Carson Valley locals, and with one bite of their homemade spaghetti, it’s easy to see why! Khristopher’s Cafe has a menu that is extensive and delectably hearty, with daily specials and a killer happy hour that’s not to be missed! (Save room for tiramisu!)

Kristopher’s Cafe sits in beautiful downtown Minden!

MORNING

Early Morning Coffee at DST Coffee :: Pop into one of our favorite coffee shops in the valley, DST Coffee, for an early morning oat milk latte or a refreshing cold brew… and if you’re hungry, try one of their delicious breakfast burritos!

Birding with JT Humphrey :: Ask anyone in Carson Valley if they’ve heard the name JT Humphrey, and chances are they have. This guy is a local legend when it comes to spotting, photographing, and protecting the wildlife in the area. He’s a horse whisperer and an expert bald eagle spotter - so spending a morning with him is an absolute must! JT took us on a quest to see bald eagles, golden eagles, barn owls, blue herons, numerous kinds of hawks, and many, many others. On our last trip to Carson Valley, we spent a morning viewing wild horses (read about it here). JT knows wildlife! You can contact JT here to arrange a tour!

AFTERNOON

Lunch at Cafe Girasole :: Open only for lunch, Cafe Girasole is the place to go for handcrafted sandwiches, soups, salads, paninis, and more. Their menu is loaded with fresh and healthy options, including the infamous “Iron Mike”! It’s a protein-rich veggie sandwich that features a surprising twist… peanut butter! And it’s REALLY GOOD.

Tour the Dangberg Home Ranch Historic park :: One of the most influential and iconic families in Carson Valley’s history was the Dangberg’s. Arriving in the 1850s, the family was not only crucial in growing the ranching and agriculture business in Carson Valley, but they also founded the town of Minden! Touring the Dangberg Home Ranch Historic Park is like walking through a time capsule, with many personal belongings and items that have been passed down generation after generation! To learn more and schedule a tour, visit here.

There’s peanut butter in there. And it’s delicious!

Fascinated by this 19th century passport!

EVENING

Cooking class at Sierra Chef :: Roll up your sleeves and get ready for a culinary adventure that you won’t soon forget - the cooking classes at Genoa’s Sierra Chef are a must-do! We suggest calling ahead of time and arranging a private class, where you can learn how to make anything from Asian stir-fry dishes to homemade pasta! (We highly recommend pasta-making, it was phenomenal!) See the 2020 class calendar here.

Late Night Dip at Walley’s Hot Springs Resort :: After your cooking lesson, enjoy a relaxing and peaceful evening at the nearby Walley’s Hot Springs Resort. These historic hot springs are not only soothing and healing, but they boast some incredible mountain views as well. There’s also eucalyptus steam rooms, saunas, locker rooms, and a pool for guests enjoyment as well!

After pasta making, a hot spring soak is ideal…

MORNING

Breakfast at Cowboy’s Cafe :: If you’ve ever wondered what a cowboy eats for breakfast, come to Cowboy’s Cafe and see for yourself! Known for their hearty chicken fried steak and finger-lickin’ biscuits and gravy, this is the kind of place where diets go out the window. And for good reason - it’s all delicious! (And you might need a nap after!)

Bently Distillery Tour :: Gin, vodka, and whiskey lovers, this is the place for you! We’re such big fans of Carson Valley’s Bently Distillery that we dedicated an entire blog to it (read more here), but regardless, their one-hour distillery tour is fantastic. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at their stills, bottling line, and barreling room - and you’ll even get to sample their premium spirits in their stunning new tasting room! Tours run Thursday-Sunday, and you can sign up for them here.

Of course Bobby got the Chicken Fried Steak and gravy…

Fascinating distillery tour! Can’t wait for the whisky!

AFTERNOON

Lunch at Cook’d :: After your tour, head on over to Cook’d for lunch, where they serve everything from tacos to burgers to mouth watering pizzas! Their menu is fresh and made to order, and we love the fun and casual atmosphere. Order a “Frozen Tumbleweed” for a real Cook’d treat!

Antique shopping :: Maybe it’s Carson Valley’s rich history, or maybe it’s their creative and eclectic residents, but whatever the reason, the antiquing here is next level. There are countless shops filled with vintage collectables, furniture, and decor, but two of our favorites are Cheshire Antiques and Red Barn Antiques. One can easily spend an entire afternoon browsing and exploring these two spots… and that’s exactly what we think you should do!

We love doing a little antique treasure hunting…

EVENING

Dinner at CV Steak :: What better way to end your trip than with a fancy steak dinner at CV Steak, Carson Valley Inn’s stunning steakhouse? From their signature table-side tossed salad, to their famous au gratin style potatoes, to their tantalizing steaks and chops… it’s undoubtedly one of the best meals in the valley. We’re drooling just thinking about it!

Did we miss any of your Carson Valley favorites? Leave a comment and let us know!

Alli Talley

February 25, 2020

Nevada, USA, Foodies

WHY BENTLY RANCH AND DISTILLERY SHOULD BE ON YOUR RADAR

Alli Talley

February 25, 2020

Nevada, USA, Foodies

Beneath the Sierra Nevada Mountains is a 50,000 acre ranch unlike any other. A ranch that’s full of thriving natural resources, innovation, technology, and promise. It’s a ranch that’s sure to put Carson Valley on the map, and we’re excited to say that you heard it here first.

Just a couple weeks ago we had the honor of touring Bently Ranch and Distillery, and we were completely blown away by what these folks are up to. Here’s what we discovered:

THE RANCH

Bently Ranch was founded in 1997 by Donald and Christopher Bently, a father-son duo with a passion for grass-fed beef and sustainable farming. Their love for the environment runs deep, and their commitment to running a business as green as possible, runs deeper. Christopher is now the president and director, and his goal of creating a fully organic ranching practice has truly come to life.

When it comes to cattle ranching, Bently Ranch excels. Their cattle are raised and cared for by ranchers that incorporate old traditions with new, and they take great pride in the legacy that they’re creating. We couldn’t have been more impressed as we toured and learned more about the ranch, the measures they take to be sustainable and eco-friendly, and the family environment they’ve fostered… It's beyond impressive. And for all you meat lovers out there, their beef is certified natural, Gap Step 4, hormone free, and GMO free.

And it’s downright delicious. (Order some here and see for yourself!)

THE DISTILLERY

For years Christopher Bently has been fascinated and inspired by the old world whisky distilleries of Scotland. Being the dreamer and entrepreneur that he is, it only made sense that they build their own… right in the heart of Carson Valley. Using only their grains - winter rye, wheat, oats, and barley (all grown on Bently ranch), their goal is to set a new standard for sustainable production. Besides the imported Oloroso sherry oak casks, everything is sourced and created from their land. Everything. How cool is that?!

The distillery itself is state-of-the-art, with the best equipment and an innovative team of expert distillers paving the way. They specialize in gin, vodka, and whisky (which is currently being aged). While the whisky won’t be ready for a few years, they’ve been making waves with their unique Source One Vodkas. Their Source One Vodka finished in the sherry casks is an absolute must-try. It’s the first vodka I (Bobby) have ever wanted to sip on like a whisky - it’s smooth, complex, and easy to drink. We of course bought a bottle and brought it home.

State of the art facilities at Bently Distillery. This is the malting room!

WHEN TO VISIT

Open to the public Thursdays-Sundays, the Bently Heritage Distillery Tour is not to be missed. Guests get an insider look into the incredible lengths they go to, to instill that their production is as sustainable as possible, and see the distillery in action! Tours are an hour long and end with a spirit tasting… our favorite part! ;)

The Bently Heritage “Public House”, or tasting room, is also open Thursdays-Sundays, for specialty cocktails and light bites. Set in a one-hundred-year-old historic flour mill (that once again is processing grains), the ambiance is as unique as it is mesmerizing. The entire cocktail menu does, of course, feature products solely made in-house, and features weekly drink specials. We’d be there weekly if we lived in Carson Valley!

Discovering Bently Ranch and Distillery was one of the highlights from our trip to Carson Valley - and we can’t wait to see how they continue to grow and set new standards for excellence in both cattle ranching and distilling.

We have a feeling this is just the beginning. And Bobby’s counting down the days their whisky becomes available.

Alli Talley

February 19, 2020

California, USA, Babymoon

Pacific Grove :: California's Best Kept Secret

Alli Talley

February 19, 2020

California, USA, Babymoon

We’ve been making the trek to Carmel and Monterey for years (see a list of our favorite spots here), and every time we discover something new. New restaurants, new hiking spots, new scenic drives… But this year we discovered a quaint little town that we had no idea existed. Pacific Grove (or “PG” as the locals like to call it) sits right between Carmel and Monterey, and it perfectly embodies the charm and rugged character of both. It’s just “off the map” enough that it feels like a local secret, with an untouched coastline, cozy restaurants, quaint B&B’s, and so much more.

By the end of a few short days in Pacific Grove, we were officially hooked. And after you see the spots we visited, we have a feeling you will be too...

ASILOMAR STATE BEACH

The name of this beach means “A Refuge By The Sea”, and that’s exactly what it is. There’s over 105 acres of forest, sand dunes, walking trails, and stunning ocean landscapes. It’s a haven for wildlife, as we saw several whales, sea otters, dolphins, and several different kinds of birds. Come at sunset, and you’re almost guaranteed a neon show… and the best part about it all? Asilomar State Beach is free to the public!

Sunsets are FIRE at Asilomar State Beach!

THE MONARCH BUTTERFLY SANCTUARY

If you happen to visit Pacific Grove between October-February, a stop at their beloved Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary is a must. Starting in October, thousands of Monarch butterflies call this Eucalyptus grove home, as they seek a warmer climate. The sanctuary is free, and visitors of all ages are invited to explore, admire, and photograph these stunning creatures… but don’t touch! (Tampering with a Monarch butterfly will result in a $1,000 fine!)

Take a stroll through the butterfly sanctuary! It’s beautiful!

CREMA

We’re big breakfast people, so when we discovered this homey cafe that proudly serves brunch all-day, we knew we’d be fans. Crema’s brunch menu is as extensive as their ingredients are fresh, with specialties such as chicken and waffles, eggs benedict, avocado toast, and their signature Bacon Cheddar Biscuits & Tamie’s Slightly Spicy Sausage Gravy (A must according to Bobby!). Plus, they offer bottomless mimosas for only $17 - yes please!

WILD FISH

Pacific Grove’s culinary scene has a lot to offer, especially when it comes to fresh seafood. While you truly can’t go wrong with the many seafood options, we think Wild Fish just may be one of the best. Everything they serve is 100% local and organic, with an ever-rotating menu that is sourced several times a week from local farmers, fishermen, and foragers. It’s as fresh and “farm to table” as you can get, and that’s exactly why we like it! Make a reservation in advance, and ask for a window seat - our favorite spot to sit!

LOVERS POINT PARK AND BEACH

Maybe it’s the hopeless romantics in us, but we absolutely adore this scenic park and beach. In the warmer months it’s a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and boating, and even in the cool of January we enjoyed exploring and picnicking in this stunning location. Plus, its unique East-facing location makes Lovers Point Park and Beach one of the only places on the West Coast where you can watch the sun RISE over the water!

Picturesque views all over Lovers Point Park.

THE SEVEN GABLES INN

While we already did a full review of our stay at The Seven Gables Inn (you can find it here), we couldn’t help but include it here too. Set in a historic home that dates back to 1886, not only is the architecture and ambiance of the property a marvel in and of itself, its prime oceanfront location is the real star of the show. Every room (there are 25) has an ocean view, and every room has a distinct personality and charm. When it comes to accommodations, it doesn’t get more idyllic (or romantic) than the Seven Gables Inn.

Could the location of the Seven Gables Inn be any better?

Next time you’re planning a trip up the California Coast, spend a few days exploring Pacific Grove. From the beaches, to the restaurants, to The Seven Gables Inn, we know you’ll love it. We’re absolutely sure of it.

Alli Talley

February 19, 2020

California, USA, Weekenders

OUR FAVORITE TRADITIONS IN MONTEREY COUNTY, CA

Alli Talley

February 19, 2020

California, USA, Weekenders

We like to say our marriage started in Monterey County, as it’s where we “mini-mooned” after our wedding (we honeymooned in Panama a few months later). We had the time of our lives adventuring around the California coast and soaking in our first few days together as husband and wife. Fast forward nearly six years, and we’ve continued to recreate this trip every year since!

There’s something so peaceful and serene about the Monterey Peninsula area. It’s such a welcome getaway from the hustle and bustle of our busy life in Orange County, and the spots we love seem to get better with age. While we always try to experience new places while we’re there (see what we discovered this time around), we have our yearly “hit list” of restaurants, activities, and locations we have to return to.

Here are a few of our favorite Monterey traditions, that will never get old:

17-MILE DRIVE

The iconic 17-Mile Drive is a scenic road on the Monterey Peninsula that twists and turns along the rugged coastline, through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove. Every mile is breathtaking, with multiple spots to stop, take pictures, and explore.

Some of our favorite places to stop are Spanish Bay Beach (where we always create a balancing rock tower, as many people do), the famous Lone Cypress (which happens to be the official symbol of Pebble Beach), and The Inn at Spanish Bay, which we always save for last. We’ll purposefully time our drive so that we’ll end there right around sunset, which leads us to our next tradition...

DRINKS AT SUNSET AT THE INN AT SPANISH BAY

Since The Inn and Links at Spanish Bay opened in 1987, a bagpiper has played up and down their picturesque coastline every night, rain or shine, at sunset. Guests and visitors are encouraged to sip on a cocktail (or two), cozy up by one of their many fire pits, and take in the sunset views and entrancing tunes. There’s something so mesmerizing and enchanting about this tradition - and if you’ve been to the Scottish Highlands before, it will undoubtedly feel as though you’ve been transported back!

CARMEL BAKERY

Strolling the streets of Carmel-by-the-Sea is a tradition of ours in and of itself, but no visit to this charming town is complete without a stop at the delectable Carmel Bakery. From decadent cookies and sweet treats to savory baked goods and sandwiches, this little bakery has it all… and it’s nearly impossible to walk past their tantalizing window display without going inside. Their gingerbread cookies are not to be missed, and their everything pretzels are absolutely delicious!

CARMEL BEACH & RIVER

One of our favorite memories from our mini-moon is picnicking and soaking in the sunshine at Carmel Beach. Every year we return to this ruggedly romantic beach and reminisce. We’ll pick up lunch at 5th Avenue Deli, grab a blanket, and leisurely spend an afternoon. Afterwards we’ll pack up our things and take a walk to the Carmel River State Beach. This mile-long state beach has a lagoon that attracts all sorts of migratory birds, and when the sun hits the water, it turns the prettiest shades of blue.

THE MONTEREY BAY COASTAL RECREATION TRAIL

Spanning eighteen miles (from Pacific Grove to Castroville) is the beloved Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. This popular paved path follows the coast past Old Fisherman’s Wharf, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and much more. Located where the tracks of the Southern Pacific Railroad once ran, locals saw that this abandoned railway had tremendous potential, and it was officially transformed as a walking trail in 1986. Every time we walk the trail we see something new, and we always try to start and stop at a different spot. It’s a must-do!

Alli Talley

February 19, 2020

California, USA

THE QUINTESSENTIAL COTTAGE BY THE SEA :: THE SEVEN GABLES INN

Alli Talley

February 19, 2020

California, USA

Have you ever checked in somewhere and instantly wanted time to slow down? You immediately start thinking through your schedule, wondering if you can extend your trip - just for a day or two?

That’s how we felt when we arrived at Seven Gables Inn in Pacific Grove. From the moment we entered the Inn’s cozy lobby we knew we had just discovered something special. And we already didn’t want to leave.

THE LOCATION

Set across the street from Pacific Grove’s Lovers Point Park and the Monterey Coastal Recreation Trail, the Seven Gables Inn couldn’t have a more picturesque location. It’s oceanfront at its finest, with breathtaking ocean views and the rhythmic sounds of the waves crashing along the shore. And while Seven Gables Inn is an easy walk to several restaurants and shops, it still feels very private and tucked away.

If you’re not familiar with Pacific Grove (we weren’t until this trip), it’s five minutes from downtown Monterey, and ten minutes from charming Carmel-by-the-Sea. We found it to be the perfect “in between” spot, and loved how cute and quaint (and seemingly undiscovered) Pacific Grove is - read more about it here.

Seven Gables Inn is perched right on the water along the Monterey Coastal Recreation Trail. Perfection!

THE ROOMS

There are 25 spacious rooms at the Seven Gables Inn, all of which boast an ocean view. The historic and eclectic decor varies from room to room, giving each a personality and style of its own. We stayed in the Arbor Room, which featured panoramic ocean views, cushy chairs for optimal whale watching (we saw five!), and one of the most comfortable and cozy king beds we’ve experienced (the Seven Gables Inn now sells their luxurious bedding, and it’s easy to see why!). All 25 of the rooms have their own bathrooms, many of them have fireplaces, and they even have a few two bedroom suites on property!

Snoozing and whale watching. The best kind of afternoon.

AMENITIES

We oftentimes find ourselves judging a property by their amenities. It’s the little perks and special touches that make a place stand out to us. And when it comes to amenities, Seven Gables Inn truly goes above and beyond. Included in your rate is an extravagant continental breakfast, an early evening wine hour, milk and cookies in the later evening, turndown service, complimentary waters, in-room binoculars (for the whales and sea otters you’ll be spotting each morning), and so much more.

During the day the breathtaking lobby is open for guests to enjoy, with plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the view. One could easily spend a few days at The Seven Gables Inn and never need to leave!

DINING

Breakfasts at Seven Gables Inn quickly became one of our favorite parts of the day. Their stunning breakfast room features daily egg specials and a delectable selection of baked goods, fruits and cereals, mimosas, and hot coffee and tea. Beyond the healthy (and delicious) spread, we’d go as far to say that there isn’t a more picture-perfect breakfast spot in town.

Every day from 4-6pm, the staff at Seven Gables Inn sets up a lovely wine hour, featuring all local labels and a wide array of cheese and crackers. Guests are encouraged to take a seat, watch the sunset, and sip on the many tasty Monterey County varietals. It’s just as heavenly as it sounds.

And it gets even better. Just like clockwork, at 7:30pm they bring out freshly baked cookies and cold milk. No matter what we had going on during the day, we made a point to be back at the inn in time for cookies. Because nothing says “vacation” like warm chocolate chip cookies and cold milk!

We can’t say enough about our time at Seven Gables Inn. It’s romantic and elegant, but still has that laid-back California charm. It’s perfect for a honeymoon, anniversary, babymoon, or a last-minute weekend getaway! We have no doubt you’ll fall in love with the Inn and the glorious surroundings… and don’t forget about the milk and cookies!