Carmel itself is a tiny town offering glitzy high-end boutique stores, eateries and hotels, surrounded by stunning unique homes only a stone's throw away from a long stretch of fine grain white sand beach. It is incredibly picturesque. Prior to our visit it was described to me as a "rich retiree's vacation spot", which isn't exactly far off. Thomas and I were more than happy to walk in such "retiree's" shoes for just 1 day though. The general architecture of the houses and buildings reminded me of forest lodgings, with thick dark circular wooden beams, plentiful trees and real fires visible at almost every turn but, instead of being set amongst freezing temperatures, is at the seaside with a blazing sun beaming down, making it really rather unusual.
The long:
Wednesday:
We arrived in Carmel just before 5pm, dumped our bags in our hotel and set a fast pace to the beach to catch the last of the day's sunlight.
Carmel is home to a gorgeous beach that was great for people watching as the sun set. We saw couples strolling hand-in-hand through the surf, friends sunbathing and picnicking, runners, dog walkers and frisbee players. It was great to just take a moment and soak in all the happiness in front of us after the long drive.
Once we'd finished enjoying the beach we wandered back through the town of Carmel, peering in through all the wonderful shop windows and scanning menus for dinner options.
^ How cute is this old school fire station?
One store that particularly caught my eye was the "Cottage of Sweets" (no surprise), as its claim to fame was that it sold "imported English chocolates"; we couldn't not take a look!
Both Thomas and I were glad to see that it was living up to its claim and selling all the "best of British", with not a Hershey's bar in sight; too right!
Carmel isn't very large so it didn't take us long to check out all there is to see. It was also nearing dinner time, and we know that means feeding time. I had mentally made note of a sweet looking small restaurant surrounded by flowery bushes and trees draped with fairy lights (God knows I am a little too obsessed with them) earlier in the evening, so gladly steered us back in its direction. I fell in love when I realised that it had a live fire... and that we were getting the best table right next to it!
It was a really romantic dining spot and I would love to go back with you Michael, as both of our meals were excellent! I'm afraid I can't comment on the wine however seeing as both Thomas and I went T-total following the previous day's events.
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