With 45 inns to choose from in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, it can be tricky business deciding where to stay. If you’re looking for a charming, European-style bed & breakfast, family-run Hofsas House Hotel welcomes guests with open arms. Founded by Donna Hofsas over six decades ago, the inn remains in the family and is now run by her granddaughter Carrie Theis, whose love and enthusiasm for both the inn and the town are apparent.
Right in convenient walking distance from the town’s restaurants, galleries and shops, Hofsas House Hotel is easily distinguished by its pale pink facade, which is adorned with Bavarian-themed artwork by Maxine Albro, giving the space distinct character. There are 38 rooms available at the inn, each one as different as the next. With different configurations, decorations and amenities, each room has its own character, much like the inn itself. The rooms are all equipped with Dutch doors, allowing guests to enjoy the nice weather of the beach town. Many of the rooms have fireplaces, private balconies, wet bars and kitchens and overlook the nearby ocean. Mornings are cheerful with continental breakfast set up in the lobby (next to a comforting fire) with pastries, yogurt, fruit, OJ, coffee and tea. Many guests mix and mingle during breakfast, or can even have their meal taken upstairs to the balcony to enjoy it al fresco.
Hofsas House Hotel also has a heated swimming pool and European style dry saunas, which are perfect during the cooler months in Carmel. While the rooms are fully equipped with cable TV and WiFi, part of the charm of the place is unhooking and enjoying the surrounding nature and camaraderie that is often hard to find elsewhere. Additionally, the inn is pet friendly and even offers a ‘Tail Wagging Package’ as one of their specials. (Other specials include a Wine & Cheese Package, Take A Hike, Get Artsy Package, Third Night’s a Charm, and Golfer’s Delight.)
The staffers are more than happy to help you with planning your stay, giving you tips and suggestions on where to go in the area. The inn also has a partnership with the nearby Monterey Bay Aquarium, which will allow you to purchase a two-day pass for the price of one, as well as partnerships with six surrounding golf courses. Additionally, you can up the ante of your stay with offerings such as in-room couples massages, romantic themed decorations, Monterey Wine & Cheese pairings, and more.
We were thrilled to be welcomed with some wine and cheese from local spot The Cheese Shop. After browsing around town all day, we enjoyed our treats during happy hour in front of the fireplace in our room, which was so delightful. We also had a prime viewing of the sunset each evening from the balcony. The hospitality here is what really sets it apart and its quaint, rural vibe is a breath of fresh air after coming in from New York City.
To read about our entire stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea, check out this article and to view our entire photo album from the trip, visit our Facebook Page!
Twisted Talk: Have you ever visited Carmel-by-the-Sea, California? Would you stay in the cute bed & breakfast? Discuss below!
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