Holman Ranch, California winery, California coast wedding venue, arched wood door

Holman Ranch: Perfect location for your special event

In Travel by Guest Writer1 Comment

If you have ever driven down the California coast, then you know — the Carmel Valley area, nestled within the Monterey Peninsula, is just about the most beautiful place you can imagine. Gently rolling hills, stunning vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see and the incredible views give tourists a new appreciation for all that the Monterey Bay area has to offer. And tucked away, nestled in the hills of Carmel Valley is a gem of a destination: Holman Ranch.

Holman Ranch, California winery,

Historic location has local roots

Not only is Holman Ranch an absolutely incredible location, it also plays a part in California history.  Back in the time when California was still a part of Mexico, the land that Holman Ranch occupies was part of the Mission lands, given to the Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Rio Carmel. Later, one of the first ranchers in the Carmel Valley was granted the land of what is now the Holman Ranch property.

Holman Ranch, California winery, California coast wedding venue

In 1928 a Spanish-style hacienda was built on the property, complete with stone walls and hand-carved beam ceilings. During this era, many Hollywood celebrities came to stay at the ranch, including Charlie Chaplin. In the 1940s, Clarence Holman purchased the property and turned it into a retreat, adding guest rooms and one of the first swimming pools in the Carmel Valley. The ranch continued to draw a celebrity crowd, with Clark Gable, Joan Crawford, Marlon Brando and Vincent Price among the famous guests.

Holman Ranch, California winery, California coast wedding venue

Thomas and Jarman Lowder are the current owners of Holman Ranch, having purchased the 400 acre property in 2006. Through extensive restoration and renovation, and the addition of 17 acres of vineyards, they worked to bring the property back to its original glory. The property includes stables, vineyards and olive groves, and they have a tasting room off-property where you can sample their estate grown wines.

Destination events are Holman Ranch’s specialty

Looking for a special location for your one-of-a-kind event? Holman Ranch is a great alternative to run-of-the-mill resorts and hotel venues. Their staff can help you plan anything from a weekend yoga retreat with girlfriends to a corporate team-building event complete with wine tasting and an incredible dinner under the stars. Holman Ranch’s unique location and private, peaceful setting is perfect for bringing people together to relax, bond and collaborate.

Holman Ranch, California winery, California coast wedding venue

Weddings? They do

And as you can imagine, Holman Ranch is an incredible location for your destination wedding. The grounds of the ranch boast beautifully-manicured lawns and a scenic, breathtaking patio that is the perfect setting for sharing your vows. What could be more romantic than overlooking a wide stretch of vineyards and the valley below as you say your vows to each other. Holman Ranch staff is dedicated to helping you plan your perfect wedding, from casual and fun to elegant and formal. Turn your destination wedding into a weekend event, by inviting your special guests to stay right on the property. Your destination wedding will be magical at Holman Ranch.

Holman Ranch, California winery, wooden rocking chair

Local sights to enjoy

The Carmel Valley is such an incredible place to stay — and within a short drive of some very popular and scenic attractions. The beaches of the Monterey Peninsula, such as Carmel, Pebble Beach or Big Sur, are the perfect place for beach lovers to get their fix. Or head to the Monterey Bay Aquarium down on the waterfront, for a glimpse into the spectacular world under the waters of Monterey Bay. Golf is a popular way to pass the time in this area, which boasts such well-known golf courses as Pebble Beach, Carmel Valley Ranch and Quail Lodge. Or maybe hiking is your thing, or shopping in the quaint shops of Carmel Village. There is something for everyone in this area.

Holman Ranch, Carmel California

photo credit: Nichole Beaudry Photography

Whatever your needs are for a special event destination, Holman Ranch in the beautiful Carmel Valley in California can help you make it happen.

All photos credited to Nichole Beaudry Photography

Disclaimer: We were invited for a complementary tour and overnight stay at Holman Ranch, but all opinions are my own — and I  would highly recommend hosting an event at this location.

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