Tally Ho Inn, a must-see romantic gem in Carmel-by-the-Sea

October 27, 11:48 AMSan Jose Romantic Getaways ExaminerTana Marie Misrack

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Tally Ho Inn's dining courtyard
Tana Marie Misrack

One of the things I most enjoy about doing my Romantic Getaways reviews is being truly surprised by an event, person, or venue. You know the old adage; you can't judge a book by its cover?

Well this is probably the best description of a delightful property, the Tally Ho Inn in beautiful Carmel-by-the-Sea.

This delightful surprise, sitting adjacent to its sister property, the Pine Inn, is by no means the ugly stepsister. Now while you might just drive past the simple front of the Tally Ho without taking much notice, if you just stop and walk through the modest front door, I promise you'll find the most surprising gem of a hotel!

Newly remodeled, the Tally Ho’s 12 elegantly appointed, uniquely designed, rooms and suites, offer feather beds with cornices, armoires, antiques, custom made tapestries, and luxury touches at every turn. I found the rooms sunny and spacious, with each having its own unique character. Some rooms even have a wet bar for your entertaining pleasure. You’ll feel wonderfully pampered and miles away from it all with fireplaces and private decks boasting spectacular ocean views.

I loved the peaceful ambience and natural beauty the hotel offered; secluded and tranquil, it reflects a true English countryside atmosphere, while only half a block from the heart of Carmel, it’s an idyllic retreat.

Now while everyone's definition of passion tends to be different, there are some universals when it comes to love and romance. You might find this interesting, but one of the things I look for when doing romance travel are the all-too-overlooked amenities in a very important room…the bathroom. Bathroom you say? Absolutely. One of the things I so enjoy is a romantic setting in a beautifully appointed bathroom. How can you beat a richly scented, candle filled bathroom, with soft music playing, while you and your lover slip into a steamy Jacuzzi? They write movies and books about such fun…

So on that note, the Tally Ho Inn’s marble bathrooms are exquisitely designed and offer a level of comfort usually found in world-class spas. Flat screen TVs, gorgeous marble floors featuring radiant heat, oversized showers and of course, the Jacuzzi in most rooms, makes this little beauty a must-experience and must-return-to location.

Most men don't realize how important a beautifully appointed bathroom is to a woman. Guys, use this to your advantage when selecting a hotel for your romantic getaway. It’s not just about the bed... and almost any women out there will concur.

General manager John Lloyd manages both the Tally Ho and the Pine Inn, and does a superb job. Like Tally’s sister the Pine Inn, both properties can honestly declare that their guests are priority one, and it shows in everything the entire staff does. From their impeccable attention to a guest’s needs, to how well maintained the properties are, you feel at home and extremely well taken care of.

Now to make your stay even more wonderful, they have some great complementary features:

Complementary Wireless Internet
Being able to use your computer in the comfort of your room, or on your private ocean view deck, gets 10 brownie points!

Complementary Continental Breakfast
The complimentary breakfast is located in the Il Fornio restaurant, (just a hop & skip across the street in the Pine Inn), consists of a lovely buffet spread. No this isn’t your grampa's buffet either; it’s beautifully presented with a combination of hot and cold entrées, oatmeal, sweet rolls, coffee, a selection of premium teas, and juices. The linen covered table cloths, china and glassware, are all painstakingly presented to ensure everyone enjoys the first meal of their day.

Complementary Parking
Now you just have to love this feature… complimentary parking at a delightful hide-away hotel in one of the most popular destinations in the world! Bravo again! (I Bravo-ed the Pine Inn for this feature also.)

Want a real treat? Let the Tally Ho Inn serve you a fabulous meal on their peaceful deck while you enjoy the warmth of the outdoor fireplace. Or, if you prefer, dine in privacy on your own deck and delight in Carmel's famous sunsets. What a perfect end to a delightful, romantic getaway!

Here are more of my Romantic Tips to make your getaway unforgettable!