Rancho Bernardo Inn 17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive • San Diego • California 92128

Rancho Bernardo Inn has so many spectacular sites for ceremonies, receptions, and photo ops that even the most ardent romantics among us could renew their vows yearly and still find unique spots they hadn't seen before. This 280-acre resort melds its California Rancho history with modern amenities to create a four-star retreat without a hint of stuffiness. So whether you want a wedding that's posh or one that's casual and relaxed, you can host it here and feel pampered in the process.

A beautiful place to start is the Aragon Lawn, an expansive, fairy-tale garden lushly bordered by white roses and trees, where a long center aisle leads to a trellised arbor. Afterwards, serve cocktails and dinner on the adjacent Aragon Terrace, replete with more signature white roses. The terrace wraps around to reveal another grape arbor that's perfect for a sun-dappled reception—there's also an outdoor fireplace to provide a warm glow in the evening. If you prefer a more formal affair, start with cocktails in the Aragon Foyer where arched glass doors open to the terrace, then follow with dinner and dancing in the stately Aragon Ballroom, which boasts honey-toned walls, a high ceiling, and gorgeous pendant chandeliers.

There are several other intimate ceremony sites—including the North and Valencia Lawns—that feature arbors, white roses, or even a dramatic stone backdrop. But if you want sweeping views of the 18-hole championship golf course, check out The Promenade, a brick courtyard with 180-degree fairway panoramas.

Santiago Courtyard is a must-see, partly because of its graceful olive trees and hacienda feel, but mainly because of its magnificent Italian fountain, a centerpiece that truly says "amore": A pair of stone-carved lovers, gazing adoringly at each other, stand above a stunning mosaic waterfall gently cascading into a sculpted pool. This courtyard has an adjacent ballroom, making it easy to flow right into your reception.

Both of the Inn's restaurants are ideal for a rehearsal dinner, pre- or post-wedding brunch, or memorable meal anytime. Menus at the sophisticated AVANT highlight the best that Wine Country cuisine has to offer, showcasing the freshest, locally sourced ingredients—including produce from the on-property garden. Veranda Fireside Lounge & Restaurant, which is inspired by the olive trees, gardens, and villas that dot the Mediterranean coastline, has a sensational patio—complete with outdoor fireplaces and fire pits—that overlooks the rolling fairways.

Frankly, there's so much to love at Rancho Bernardo Inn that we suggest taking a tour. And while you're here, why not stop by The Spa. It's never too early for a little pre-wedding indulgence, and their seasonal Made Fresh Daily treatments are created in-house with ingredients that cleanse the body and nourish the soul.

Rancho Bernardo Inn truly is a venue that caters to all your senses. Between the breathtaking golf course views, award-winning services, and fabulous wedding and dining facilities, you and your guests will have so many reasons to stay.