Offroad Driving Park or World-Class Golf Resort? This Town Has Both.

In San Martin, CA, the words “driving range” have taken on a double meaning

San Martin vacation
The Rosewood CordeValle boasts one of the best golf courses in the country
Rosewood CordeValle

Golf aficionados know that the Rosewood CordeValle offers one of the best golf courses in the country.  And right now it’s better than ever following a months-long update promising rebuilt greens, a new driving range and higher quality turf throughout.

But that’s not all you can expect from a five-star vacation down south (read: just a little beyond San Jose). We’re talking about world-renowned vineyards, best-in-class hiking and easy access to California’s first park devoted to off-road driving. 

This might be maximum-possible fun for a 72-hour window. 

Rosewood CordeValle
A suite with a view (Rosewood CordeValle)

WHERE TO STAY

One of the country’s top golf spots just got a facelift — so come down to the Rosewood CordeValle’s 260-acre course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr., and let ’er rip on “smoother, championship-pace greens.” When not out on the links, relax in a suite with outdoor shower, patio, fireplace and, of course, views of the golf course. 

Hollister Hills
Hollister Hills (California State Parks OHV)

EXPLORE

You’ve got plenty of hiking nearby — not least at the spectacular Henry W. Coe State Park, just across the 101. But why not try something slightly different? At Hollister Hills, California’s first “Vehicular Recreation Area” is now open. Once a private motorcycle park, Hollister Hills welcomes all sorts of “off-highway vehicles,” with dedicated trails for ATVs, dirt bikes, 4X4s and more. If you’re tempted by off-roading but need a refresher course first, consider a safety workshop with local club Esprit de Four, tailored for newbies who’ll “come away with the knowledge that there is more to four wheeling than simply shifting into 4WD.” 

La Foret
San Jose’s go-to for exquisite French cuisine (La Foret)

WHAT TO EAT & DRINK

You’re in the heart of wine country here — quite literally, since the Clos LaChance winery is basically right next to the golf course’s sixth hole. Miramar and Seeker vineyards aren’t much farther. For fine dining, head north to La Foret, for beef tournedos or veal tenderloin with a Calvados brandy cream sauce, all in the verdant Almaden Valley. Otherwise, head to Trail Dust Barbecue for a half-rack of pork ribs and some berry cobbler. 

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