renaissance clubsport walnut creek: my home away from home

Renaissance ClubSport lobby

Although we’ve stayed in hotels all over the world, one of the ones I just feel most comfortable in is only an hour and a half flight away, in northern California.

We discovered the Renaissance ClubSport Walnut Creek a few years ago, when my sister’s family put everyone up there for my nephew’s Bar Mitzvah.

As soon as we walked through the glass doors and caught a glimpse of its gorgeous, vibrant décor, we immediately fell in love. It’s got such a high energy yet sophisticated vibe, it inspires you to want to get active in its world-class sports club, which you have full access to as a hotel guest — or at least sit and take in all the action from one of the many inviting chairs.

Renaissance ClubSport sitting area

So, when we decided to visit our daughter, who’s working in Berkeley, this weekend, we, of course, checked into what we’d like to consider our home away from home. Opening the door to our room and seeing the x’s and o’s over the beds always feels like receiving a warm, welcoming hug.

Renaissance ClubSport room

The big, beautiful bathroom is stocked with Aveda amenities, thick, cushy towels and even a pair of hand weights. I think this is great, although Michael is the only one who has ever actually used them.

Renaissance ClubSport bathroom

In fact, even though we checked in late on Friday night, Michael headed right over to the gym to use the machines and take a steam.

Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to take advantage of many of our favorite hotel features this weekend but, on past visits, we’ve spent lazy hours lounging by the pool while the kids played racquetball and squash, and my sister and I have enjoyed massages and facials at the spa.

Renaissance ClubSport pool

We’ve had lunches by the pool, dinner in the restaurant and dessert, well, all over the hotel.

And the breakfast buffet? It’s something we look forward to before we even land, and it can pretty much sustain you for the entire day, with made-to-order omelettes, waffles and pancakes offered along with the usual eggs, bacon, fruit, cereals, bagels …

Which leads you right back to the gym.

Renaissance ClubSport gym

If I lived in the area, I would absolutely join Renaissance ClubSport and spend my days writing in one of the cozy sitting areas in the hotel lobby  in between getting treatments, working out in complimentary fitness classes, and eating. There’s a cute little coffee shop right there, featuring an extensive selection of drinks and snacks, and a wall full of TVs so you can keep up with the news.

Renaissance ClubSport coffee shop

“Yes,” you’re thinking, “this sounds fantastic but why would I be in Walnut Creek, California?” Well, first of all, it’s a quick drive or BART ride over to San Francisco. Second of all, Walnut Creek itself is filled with block after block of shops and restaurants and is a really pretty place to walk around and enjoy the scenery. Just look at the view from our window.

Renaissance ClubSport view

I’m hoping to stay at the Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo one of these days, too, and am keeping my fingers crossed they’ll think about opening a branch in Del Mar.

Meanwhile, to prove this just may be the place I’m meant to be, I will sign off now with what is apparently our mutual signature. xo

Renaissance ClubSport xo

40 thoughts on “renaissance clubsport walnut creek: my home away from home

  1. Walnut Creek is such a peaceful area. I’d love to visit this gorgeous hotel. I love hotels that pay such close attention to details. Everything looks so perfect!

  2. You peaked my interest with the sophisticated atmosphere; pulled me in more with the luxuriously stocked bathroom; reeled me in just a bit more with racquetball and the gym; and sealed the deal with the breakfast buffet! Road trip my traveling friend?

  3. My husband and I have stayed at the Renaissance in Walnut Creek and agree with what you said. It is a beautiful hotel and it would be difficult to single out which of the features we liked best. Anyone traveling to the San Francisco area should consider staying there….and Walnut Creek is also a delightful place to visit. You said it beautifully, Lois.

  4. My goodness, that looks like a wonderful getaway. The gym, the view, the rooms – all so fabulous.

  5. You two look so cute together with your “x” and “o” that you deserve to be there often just to sleep underneath those letters.

    This looks awesome and I think I need to go there with you so we can sit leisurely by the lovely looking pool and laugh all day.

    Beautiful.

  6. Ahhh, what a small world! I went to UC Berkeley and then lived in Orinda and would go to Walnut Creek all the time! This place looks great!!!

  7. Aloha, nothing better than an “our” place to return to time and again. There’s a bliss in the expected, particularly when it rises to this level. Fun to know if ever we are there!

  8. I could totally see how you would feel at home here… wow, sounds and look amazing… Thanks for sharing

  9. Walnut Creek has certainly grown up! I’ve filed this little gem away in my notes as the place to stay when we return to the Bay Area for family visits. Looks great!

  10. I love Aveda amenities so combined with those thick, cushy towels and a full gym, the Renaissance ClubSport Walnut Creek looks like a place I’d definitely choose for a stay.

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