Romance & bubbly at Tickle Pink

From Nancy D. Brown of What a Trip

The glitz and glamour of New Year’s Eve is not for everyone.  Some folks simply enjoy a quite, romantic evening in the hot tub or sipping champagne while taking in a gorgeous ocean view.  If you find yourself in Northern California in the winter time, check the on-line winter rate specials at Tickle Pink Inn  at Carmel Highlands.

My mother gave us a gift certificate to this private, coastal retreat and since it was winter time, when the rates are more affordable, our ocean view room included sparkling wine upon arrival.  We had stayed at the Tickle Pink for our wedding night some 22 years ago.  While the rooms have been upgraded since that two-night stay, the ocean view was as stunning as I remembered.

The evening wine and cheese reception, 4:30-6 p.m. in the Terrace Lounge was a nice way to kick off our romantic interlude. Guests looking for more privacy are welcome to bring back hors d’ oeuvres and a glass of Monterey County wine to their room.  The Inn offers an outdoor hot tub, cotton terry robes for your use during your stay and slippers to take home.  A complimentary continental breakfast, served from 7:30-10 a.m., is served in the Terrace Lounge.  We came down for breakfast in our robes and felt like we were on the set of a hollywood movie.  I think I could get used to eating scones and fresh fruit while sitting deck side under a heat lamp looking onto the Pacific ocean.  A fine way to start the day.

Ocean view room

Pacific Coast Highway One

There are plenty of options to choose from when driving Carmel’s coastal highway one. Guests can head south to Big Sur, into Carmel for some shopping and dining or venture to Carmel Valley for wine tasting, hiking and more dining options.

Reservations: 1(800) 635-4774

Located at 155 Highlands Drive, Carmel, Tickle Pink is an AAA, four diamond resort

Rates range from $199-$439. Winter rates valid Sunday-Thursday, excluding holidays and special events, until March 31, 2009, based on availability.