Have you ever been a tourist in your own hometown?
It’s amazing how much we take our cities for granted. San Francisco is a world-class destination that people from around the globe come to see and yet for the Bay Area, it’s just The City.
I was invited last week to a special session at the Cavallo Point Cooking School. I had heard the buzz but never had the chance to experience it for myself. I will admit, being domestically challenged, I was a bit intimidated by the array of fresh ingredients in the kitchen and the box of sharp knives on the counter, but it turned out to be a wonderful night out. Head Chef Tony Adams is not only incredibly talented but he’s a riot. He kept us in stitches by mentioning insights like how he got his “body by burrata” (I’m tempted to make this into a t-shirt) while sharing his culinary tips.
It’s amazing how much we take our cities for granted. San Francisco is a world-class destination that people from around the globe come to see and yet for the Bay Area, it’s just The City.
I was invited last week to a special session at the Cavallo Point Cooking School. I had heard the buzz but never had the chance to experience it for myself. I will admit, being domestically challenged, I was a bit intimidated by the array of fresh ingredients in the kitchen and the box of sharp knives on the counter, but it turned out to be a wonderful night out. Head Chef Tony Adams is not only incredibly talented but he’s a riot. He kept us in stitches by mentioning insights like how he got his “body by burrata” (I’m tempted to make this into a t-shirt) while sharing his culinary tips.
We drank wine, sampled his special cocktail (delicious!) and then split up into teams to prepare separate dishes which would ultimately come together for an extraordinary buffet, as Chef Tony walked around giving us helpful tips and motivation. I couldn’t believe that in about 2 hours we had an entire smorgasbord prepared. We were then able to sit and enjoy the company of new friends as we devoured the incredible gourmet meal we had all helped to prepare. Talk about teamwork!
If you haven’t been to Cavallo Point-The Lodge at the Golden Gate, it’s high time you visited. The resort is a former military base and offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline. The homes of military officers have been converted to charming hotel rooms with the colonial details impeccably restored. Windows open up to fresh bay breezes and rocking chairs line the spacious white porches. If contemporary décor is more your style, then opt for the newer buildings in the back of the resort, complete with a fireplace and window seat with views of the bridge and The City as your backdrop. It’s the perfect place to curl up with a good book and your favorite glass of wine!
Not only is the cooking school amazing, there’s plenty of local adventures to enjoy. Sign up to go on guided hikes, attend the morning yoga class and even toot around on bicycles, which can be rented onsite. If you want to explore the area, the resort offers 3 hour complimentary use of their Lexus vehicles on a first-come, first-served basis. There are also complimentary shuttles to San Francisco and Sausalito so there’s ample opportunities to get out and explore.
If what you need is a quiet respite from the craziness and a chance to recharge, head over to the Healing Arts Center. You can sit in on interactive health lectures and workshops led by Dr. Brad Jacobs, the resident integrative medicine physician. Maybe a sound bath session or a crystals workshop with a trained energy worker is what you seek? There’s also a variety of massage, aromatherapy, body treatments and water therapies to explore. With day packages available, you can come for just one day or relax and extend your visit over a long weekend.
Cavallo Point is perfectly situated in the midst of serene natural surroundings within the Golden Gate National Recreational Area yet the vibrancy of San Francisco is just across the Golden Gate Bridge. Go into The City for shopping in Union Square, sampling the food in the Ferry Building or for a gourmet Michelin-quality meal. Once you’ve had enough of the energy of the big city, you can retreat to the comfort of your quiet abode and look back across the bridge at the glorious twinkling lights in the distance.
As a Virtuoso hotel, Cavallo Point-The Lodge at the Golden Gate offers you all the perks of an elite loyalty member, without having to earn the rewards! When you’re ready for a break from reality, reach out and I’ll ensure you’re treated like a VIP.
Virtuoso Amenities included with your stay:
Virtuoso Amenities included with your stay:
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily full breakfast for two guests per bedroom
- $100 USD Resort/Hotel credit, to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi