Surrounded by moss-covered pine and oak trees, this beachside retreat is hidden from view but very much close to the heart of laid-back Carmel. A short boardwalk stroll to Carmel Beach, and within walking distance of the local shops and art galleries, this home resides in a quiet neighbourhood a stone’s throw away from the action. Inside, there’s an elegance to the deep hardwood floors and furnishings, the fireplace and the vaulted, open-beam ceilings. Flooded with natural light by wide windows, the cosy, sumptuous living room is a wonderful spot to enjoy the complimentary wine and cheese provided by your host, while the wide dining table or patio furniture will give you a choice of interior or alfresco dining when it comes to dinner. Or, it’s worth trying one of the many delicious restaurants in walking distance (we love Stationæry for Californian cuisine or Toro if you’re in the mood for sushi). Play around at the golf course, spend a day at the beach, or take a short trip to Monterey or Big Sur along the famous Highway 1 – in this corner of the world, there’s no end to the views, scenic routes, and seemingly the ocean itself.