Welcome to the historic Mission Ranch, one of the most spectacular spots on the Monterey Peninsula. The exquisite views are unrivaled: meadows stretch to the south, joining the wetlands and the Carmel River Beach. Point Lobos can be seen in the distance across the bay. The Ranch consisted originally of 160 acres and was owned by Juan Romero, a Native American who believed to have lived in the village next to the Carmel Mission. In 1852 he deeded the property to William Curtis, a Monterey storekeeper, for $300. In the 1850’s, the property became one of the first of the early California dairies. The creamery, which supplied the county with cheese and butter, now house the restaurant. The barns were used for hay and milking. During this time, the Martin family, who owned the Ranch for 60 years, also farmed potatoes for the Sierra gold miners.
The ranch has had some 17 owners. It operated as a private club, then as officers’ club for the Army and Navy during World War II. At that time the windows were occasionally blackened against a possible Japanese landing. It was owned in those days by the Dienelt family, who had the ranch for 39 years. It had a rollicking reputation, with dance bands and a lively bar scene. Portions of the property were sold to the Carmel School District and the state. The Ranch now encompasses 22 acres.
Clint Eastwood bought the Ranch in 1986, rescuing the property from an impending fate as a condominium development. He sought out the best craftsmen for renovation, who have replicated moldings, doorframes, and hardware to match the style of the original buildings. Each structure reflects a different architectural period: from the 1850’s feel of the restaurant and dance barn, to the century old Martin farmhouse.
The one time Bunkhouse is the oldest structure on the Ranch. It’s nestled among historic cypress and eucalyptus trees, as well as newly planted gardens, which adorn the entire Ranch.
Mission Ranch Information
Gift Certificates are here!
800/538-8221, 831/624-6436, 831/625-9040
26270 Dolores Carmel By the Sea, California 93923
TEHAMA GOLF CLUB • HISTORIC FARMHOUSE • RESTAURANT • WEDDINGS • DIRECTIONS
