It’s cozy season at The Ranch, when morning mist over the vineyards burns off into sunny days perfect for lounging by the pool, savoring seasonal dining, and trying new activities. The kids might be back in school, but it’s still playtime here!
Get cozy with us
this fall
SEASONAL EXPERIENCES
Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, wellness or wilderness, we’ve got something for you this season!
Wine dinners
We’re hosting not one, but two wine dinners at Harvest Landing featuring a sparkling-wine reception followed by a five course dinner with perfect pairings. Space is limited to just 60 guests for each event, so don’t wait: Head to OpenTable to save your spot!
John Deere Juniors
Beginning in September
Put on a John Deere hat and step into the boots of a junior groundskeeper for a hands-on ranch-style adventure! Young explorers will discover what it takes to help care for our beautiful property through playful outdoor activities, kid-sized tools, and plenty of movement. Ages 3-6
Fall Harvest Bath & Body Workshop
September through November
Embrace the scents and comforts of autumn as you create a nourishing goat’s milk soap infused with herbs and dried botanicals from our Organic Garden, blend a rich shea butter moisturizing balm, and make an exfoliating body scrub using Dead Sea salt, Epsom salts, and warm fall-inspired fragrances.
Scotch & Steers: Highland Cattle Experience
September through November
Head up to the hilltop to hang with Belle & Bucky, The Ranch’s pair of mini-Highland cattle. You’ll get a chance to walk with, groom, and brush these lovable creatures while learning more about the history of the Highlanders as you sipping on whiskey! Ages 21+
Renaissance Fair Weekend
Early October
This special weekend is full of old-world experiences the whole family will love!
Beekeeping with Brother Baily
Journey into the wondrous world of the honeybee with Brother Bailey, steward of The Ranch’s treasured hives. Discover the ancient art of beekeeping and savor the sweetness of honey tasting!
Archery
Whether you’re a first-time archer or looking to refine your skills, you can take up the bow and discover a pastime beloved throughout the Renaissance era. This hands-on experience introduces guests to the fundamentals of archery.
Potions with Lily—The Alchemist’s Fragrance Workshop
Stir, blend, and bottle your very own aromatic potion in this hands-on perfume-making experience. Join Lily as she shares the secrets of scent to help you create a perfume worthy of a Renaissance court.
Axe Throwing with Derek
Channel your inner warrior and take aim in this exciting axe-throwing experience. Derek will guide participants through proper technique and safety before helping you sharpen your skills and hit the target.
Halloween weekend
October 30-31
Get spooky with us as we celebrate Halloween with activities that are more fun than frightful!
Bats & Brews
During this spirited evening under the stars, you’ll enjoy a featured beverage while joining a guided twilight walk to discover the fascinating world of bats and other nocturnal wildlife. October 30-31 | Ages 21+
Pumpkin Plunge
Jump into the River Ranch Family Pool for our annual Pumpkin Plunge! Choose your pumpkin from our floating pumpkin patch, then decorate and paint it. October 30
Spooky Cocktails & Mocktails
Celebrate Halloween with an enchanting evening in the garden. Harvest seasonal herbs and botanicals before crafting your own festive cocktail or mocktail inspired by the flavors of fall. Guests are encouraged to arrive in costume and embrace the spirit of the season! October 31 | Ages 21+
Hilltop Meet & Greet & Halloween Costume Parade
Celebrate Halloween with a special Hilltop Animal Meet & Greet featuring our beloved herd! Join our Halloween Costume Parade, where guests and animals parade together in a festive celebration of the season. This fun-filled event includes candy stations, family-friendly games, and opportunities to meet our Ranch Hands and animal ambassadors. October 31
Nocturnal Nights
Beginning in October
Come have fun with us on this family-friendly twilight stroll! Ever wonder how bats echolocate or owls soar so silently? Test your night vision while exploring the many adaptations of The Ranch’s nocturnal residents on a guided hike with glow-in the-dark fun.
Garden Bubbles & Bloom
Beginning in November
Young creators will mix, stir, and customize their own bubbly bath products inspired by colorful flowers, fragrant herbs, sunshine-filled citrus groves, and sweet garden scents. Kids will explore the wonders of nature while crafting their very own spa collection to take home. Ages 4-12 (must be accompanied by adult)
The Bead Bar
Beginning in November
Indulge your creative side as you craft a beautifully personalized bracelet, necklace, or custom accessory using an elegant collection of hand-selected glass beads. Ages 6+ (under 13 must be accompanied by adult)
Lantern Walk at Carmel Valley Ranch
November
Gather as the sun begins to set for a cherished lantern walk inspired by longstanding autumn traditions that celebrate light, community, and togetherness. You’ll create a handcrafted lantern before gathering at dusk to carry our glowing lanterns along the trail, illuminating the path together and embracing the quiet beauty of the season. Ages 6+
Hive to Table: Winter Candle & Honey Workshop
November-December
Embrace the warmth of the season with this unique hands-on experience that brings together the art of candle-making and the natural flavors of honey. Guided by a local beekeeper and artisan craftsperson, you’ll create a beeswax candle and explore the flavors and uses of infused honey through a guided tasting experience. Ages 8+
Snow Much Fun Kid's Night Out
December
Kids can bundle up in their favorite pajamas for a cozy evening of winter fun with festive games, holiday crafts, a family-friendly movie, and a delicious dinner. Ages 13+
Holiday Activities
Don’t look up, but the holidays are only a few months away! We’re preparing all kinds of great activities, from wreath-making to our annual tree-lighting, caroling, and more.
Wildcrafted Wreath Making
Get creative and festive as we craft wreaths with greenery harvested from our grounds and Organic Garden. November and December | Ages 4+ (under 12 must be accompanied by adult)
Gobble & Giggle Kid’s Night Out
Children will enjoy a special evening of Thanksgiving-inspired games, arts and crafts, a cozy movie, dinner, and plenty of gobbles and giggles. And parents can enjoy an evening to themselves! Thanksgiving week | Ages 13+
The Night Before Christmas Reading
Gather around for a favorite holiday tradition at The Ranch! Read by one of our Ranch Hands by the warmth of the Lobby hearth, this classic tale of magic and wonder will come to life on Christmas Eve. December 24
Caroling at The Lodge
Join us as we get jolly and sing holiday favorites! December 24
New Year, New You: Naturally BEE-autiful Workshop
December 26 through January
Start the year with a little self-care and a natural glow! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create your own nourishing honey lip scrub, moisturizing honey lip balm, honey-rose brightening face mask, and hydrating rose water facial mist. Leave with four handcrafted products, new wellness inspiration, and a healthy glow for the year ahead.
PLAN YOUR SUMMER ESCAPE
Don’t wait to make your plans for a getaway to sunny Carmel Valley Ranch! Explore our offers and book your stay today!