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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
“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.
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
Love hotels that put a little extra into their offerings, and this one looks like it does just that. Also, the xox.
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!
Very cool. Hadn’t heard about this.
What a chic looking oasis! I love the design and decor, especially the cute “X”s and “O”s on the headboard! Looks like a great vacation (or in your case, staycation) spot!
Looks fabulous – and a great excuse to visit the area!
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?
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.
My goodness, that looks like a wonderful getaway. The gym, the view, the rooms – all so fabulous.
I have never heard of Walnut Creek but wow the view id lovely. I will definitely put this area on my to do list.
Coffee shop <3
LOVE the XO! And Aveda products? Sold! I go to northern California at least twice a year. I’m sold!
This hotel looks like it has it all. I’d like it to be my home away from home, too!
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.
Sweeeet! Place is awesome and so comfy looking.
What a beautiful hotel! Now this is the type of place I would enjoy staying at for our next vacation. The lobby itself is impressive!
That place looks like paradise! Thanks for the excellent recommendation 🙂
Looks like a great place, that bed looks very inviting!
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!!!
That looks like an awesome place to stay! I would love to stay there.
I love the XOs above the bed–it’s a nice touch. Glad you are making the most of your daughter being away from home.
Sounds like a wonderful place to stay, I wouldn’t want to leave!
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!
What a gorgeous place to go and stay. I love going and staying somewhere pretty and nice. You feel so pampered and can just relax.
I love the interior design, so sleek and modern and the view its fantastic!
You had me wow-ed with the headboard!
xoxo
To heck with the home away from home…sounds like a great place to move into and call home!
I could totally see how you would feel at home here… wow, sounds and look amazing… Thanks for sharing
I’ve been amazed with a few hotels, but you really have those beat with the weights and colorful décor. The view isn’t something you can buy and is phenomenal.
It certainly separates itself from the competition. I’d love to spend a day or several there.
Wow, this place looks great!
I love how modern that place looks. Looks like you guys had a great time.
Aveda amenities? I am totally won over by the hotel’s travel shampoos. I kid you not. Looks beautiful there.
This looks amazing. I especially love the gym and the bathrooms.
Wow that gym is huge! The whole place looks beautiful. The bathroom is always a deal breaker for me. Steam rooms are so hard to find in hotels, that is an added plus.
What a great place. I think I’d want to stay forever and soak in the surroundings. I love little shops nestled in the country side so this is for me 🙂 Thanks for sharing
Wow! What pretty decor in that room! I love the blues and greens together. It looks like a lovely place for a retreat!
You stay in the most wonderful places! I can see why you like staying there!
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!
This hotel does seem like it could be a destination unto itself for a getaway weekend.
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.
Renaissance ClubSport Walnut Creek looks like an elegant and relaxing place to stay. I have to add Walnut Creek to my next San Francisco area visit.