California

Magical Monterey

Program No. 1208RJ
From iconic shorelines to the homeland of John Steinbeck, from world-renowned aquarium to the “crown jewel” of California state parks, come see all that’s amazing in historic Monterey.

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At a Glance

Called the most beautiful meeting of land and water on the face of the earth, Monterey Bay, the legendary Pacific coast and sun-drenched Carmel Valley mark a convergence of currents, cultures and creators that make the area one of the country’s most fascinating places. Together we’ll visit the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, view stunning Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and travel the internationally heralded 17 Mile Drive. With lodgings and classes at the famed Hidden Valley, a small performing arts institute nestled amongst oak covered hills, lecturers will include at least one historical character, a coastal biologist, a winemaker and performers teaching or studying at Hidden Valley. Join us for an immersion in the history, the ecology, the arts, the wine and the “magic” of Monterey.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day and standing at museums and on outdoor field trips, getting on and off a motor coach, and sitting during presentations.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Meet John Steinbeck and visit iconic Cannery Row and the Steinbeck Museum as well as the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
  • Learn about the region’s famous wines from a local wine maker or vineyardist.
  • Experience the drama and beauty of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve on a scenic day walking along the Pacific Coast.

General Notes

The Retreat Difference: This unique, often basic and no-frills experience at a Road Scholar Retreat includes opportunities for early morning exercise, interaction with the local community for insight into local life, an authentic farm-to-table or locally sourced meal, and a live performance or event.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Taelen Thomas
Taelen Thomas, local Carmel Bay bard and master of the oral tradition, is known for his golden, resonant voice and powerful stage presence. He creates and performs biological dramas in which he “brings to life” literary personalities including Dylan Thomas, Robert Burns, John Steinbeck, Jack London, and Mark Twain, often performing with musicians. The most recent edition of Taelen's poetry is entitled “Inside of a Galloping Buffalo.” He has recorded a powerful CD of the poetry of Robinson Jeffers, commissioned by the Tor House Foundation.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Taelen Thomas
Taelen Thomas View biography
Taelen Thomas, local Carmel Bay bard and master of the oral tradition, is known for his golden, resonant voice and powerful stage presence. He creates and performs biological dramas in which he “brings to life” literary personalities including Dylan Thomas, Robert Burns, John Steinbeck, Jack London, and Mark Twain, often performing with musicians. The most recent edition of Taelen's poetry is entitled “Inside of a Galloping Buffalo.” He has recorded a powerful CD of the poetry of Robinson Jeffers, commissioned by the Tor House Foundation.
Profile Image of Rick Yramategui
Rick Yramategui View biography
Rick Yramategui first performed a Joplin rag at Shakey's Pizza Parlor in Los Alamitos, California while in high school in the 70s. He received a bachelor’s degree in music education from Whitworth College. He serves as pastor of Carmel Valley Community Chapel, performs with the Carmel Piano Trio, and was the pianist for a revival of George Gershwin's musical, “Oh, Kay!” He is passionate about the connection between music and spirituality.
Profile Image of Rick Fournier
Rick Fournier View biography
Rick Fournier is an avid birder who has lived in Monterey for the past 40 years. He has been operating a birding-adventure company in central California for 24 years, leads groups for regional Audubon Societies, at the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, and conducts avian wetland monitoring for the Moss Landing Marine Labs. He spent 4½ years in the Big Sur Ornithology Lab’s mist net program.
Profile Image of Gael Gallagher
Gael Gallagher View biography
Gael Gallagher has a passion for the Monterey Bay area and pursues ongoing coursework in local history, ecology, architecture, and the natural sciences. Gael serves as a docent a the Point Lobos State Reserve and is a guide/trainer at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. She is also docent at the National Steinbeck Center and is an instructor for the National Wildlife Federation's Conservation Summit.
Profile Image of Deanna Ross
Deanna Ross View biography
Deanna Ross is a dancer, choreographer, and teacher. Born in California, she began her studies at age seven at the Redwood Empire Ballet in Santa Rosa, then spent 12 years at the San Francisco, Pennsylvania, and Milwaukee Ballet Schools, the HARID Conservatory, and the North Carolina School of the Arts. Deanna lives in Monterey, Ca., where she has choreographed numerous works, and has served as Bay Area guest artist. She also teaches ballet, modern dance, dance improvisation, E-STRETCH, slow breathing and stretching.
Profile Image of Rene Kimzey
Rene Kimzey View biography
Rene Kimzey is a Hoosier at heart, transplanted to California a decade ago. She and her rescue dog, Peg, reside in a historic home in lovely Old Town Monterey which they embrace for its beauty and cultural richness. She holds a bachelor’s and master’s of education from George Mason University. After a career in healthcare, she delved into special events work, volunteering her time at many local organizations. Rene enjoys being a Group Leader for Hidden Valley, sharing her passion for Monterey, and helping others.
Profile Image of Matthew Shea
Matthew Shea View biography
Matthew Shea’s roots in the Carmel Valley go back two generations. The son of a master gardener, Matthew grew up with an inherent understanding of the valley, its horticulture, and ecology. After graduating from Oregon State University and successfully managing 1000’s of acres of vineyards in Oregon, he returned to focus on the Estate Vineyards of Bernardus Winery in Carmel Valley. Using his background in organic, sustainable agriculture, Matt has brought a balance to the vineyard through increasing diversity, composting, and water and soil management.
Profile Image of Peter Meckel
Peter Meckel View biography
Peter Meckel is the founder and General Director of Hidden Valley Music Seminars. Born and raised in the Midwest, he attended university at Rockford University in Illinois, and Occidental College in California. His leadership of Hidden Valley has resulted in one of the most respected opera training centers in America and a major contributor of arts education programs for vocalists, instrumentalists, and dancers. Students from throughout the world come to study with master teachers from many of America’s most prestigious orchestras and opera companies.
Profile Image of Diane Salmon
Diane Salmon View biography
Diane Salmon grew up in San Diego, California, but fell in love with Monterey, where she moved after finishing her degree in microbiology and internship for Clinical Laboratory Scientist. While working at the local hospital, she hiked trails amid the area’s the breathtaking natural beauty. She moved to the San Francisco Bay area for several years and became board certified in infection control. After returning to Monterey and working at the local hospital, Diane is now a docent at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
Profile Image of Jim Covel
Jim Covel View biography
Jim Covel recently retired as Director of Training & Interpretation for the Monterey Bay Aquarium where he trained and managed hundreds of volunteers. He has worked as a park ranger and interpreter, leading environmental education programs for the Southgate Recreation and Park District in Sacramento and the East Bay Regional Park District in the SF Bay Area. Jim has also served as a visiting lecturer at UC Davis, CSU Sacramento and CSU Monterey Bay, teaching courses from resource management to outdoor recreation and ecotourism.
Profile Image of Rene Kimzey
Rene Kimzey View biography
Rene Kimzey is a Hoosier at heart, transplanted to California a decade ago. She and her rescue dog, Peg, reside in a historic home in lovely Old Town Monterey which they embrace for its beauty and cultural richness. She holds a bachelor’s and master’s of education from George Mason University. After a career in healthcare, she delved into special events work, volunteering her time at many local organizations. Rene enjoys being a Group Leader for Hidden Valley, sharing her passion for Monterey, and helping others.
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Year
2025
  • 2024
  • 2025
Date
Nov 30 - Dec 05
  • Feb 09 - Feb 14
  • Mar 16 - Mar 21
  • Apr 13 - Apr 18
  • May 05 - May 10
  • Sep 07 - Sep 12
  • Nov 09 - Nov 14
  • Nov 30 - Dec 05
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Select trip year and date
2025
  • 2024
  • 2025
Nov 30 - Dec 05
  • Feb 09 - Feb 14
  • Mar 16 - Mar 21
  • Apr 13 - Apr 18
  • May 05 - May 10
  • Sep 07 - Sep 12
  • Nov 09 - Nov 14
  • Nov 30 - Dec 05
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
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6 days
5 nights
15 meals
5 B 1BR 4 L 5 D
DAY
1
Check-in, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation
Carmel Valley, CA
D
Lubow Lodge

Activity note: Campus check-in 2:00-5:00 p.m.

Afternoon: Program Registration. When you arrive at Hidden Valley’s campus, come over to the main office next to the parking lot to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. At 5:00 p.m., we’ll meet our fellow participants for a wine and cheese reception in the Fireside Room and Dining Room. We’ll enjoy some California wines and/or juices and savor cheese and crackers before dinner.

Dinner: In the Dining Room.

Evening: Orientation. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This is a Road Scholar Retreats program. Our programming at Retreat locations includes opportunities for light morning exercise, interaction with members of the local community, locally sourced meals, and evening entertainment. Every day before breakfast, there will be a popular class of long, slow stretching and breathing in the dance studio. Toast and juice will be available in the dining room before class. This is not an aerobics class and there is no need for special clothing or shoes and no need for a shower afterwards. Food selections will be healthily prepared with local ingredients. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Public bus service will be available across from the campus driveway. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local conditions/circumstances. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

DAY
2
Peninsula Overview, Natural History of Monterey
Carmel Valley, CA
B,L,D
Lubow Lodge

Activity note: Stretching and breathing class in dance studio before breakfast. Getting on/off a motor coach, driving about 50 miles, approximately 3 hours riding time. Walking less than 1 mile; those who prefer not to walk may remain with the bus and still view the area. Dress in layers for the weather.

Breakfast: In the Dining Room.

Morning: We will board a motor coach with a local expert on Monterey and learn why Robert Louis Stevenson called this the “most beautiful meeting of land and water on the face of the earth.” From fabulous coastal scenes to famous homes on Pebble Beach’s 17-mile drive, to historic Monterey Adobes that served as the capital of California under Spanish rule, this area is a never-to-be-forgotten treasure of beauty and interest. On our scenic drive, we’ll learn about the Monterey peninsula’s dynamic history, ecology, culture, and beauty. We will pause at scenic stops to stretch our legs, breathe the fresh ocean air, and experience how all of these unique components fit together to make up Monterey.

Lunch: In the Dining Room.

Afternoon: We will be joined in the theater by a coastal expert who will introduce and explain some of the fascinating natural history of this extraordinary area. The lecture will be illustrated by a wealth of gorgeous slides.

Dinner: In the Dining Room.

Evening: A talented pianist, teaching from the keyboard, will perform music of Scott Joplin and others. You may recognize some of the hit tunes from the turn into the 20th century that are still ingrained in the music world.

DAY
3
Chat with John Steinbeck, Free Time, Local Wines
Carmel Valley, CA
B,L,D
Lubow Lodge

Activity note: Stretching and breathing class in dance studio before breakfast. Limited walking on campus. Flexible walking on Free Afternoon.

Breakfast: In the Dining Room.

Morning: John Steinbeck will be in fine fettle as he joins us in class for a talk about his life, work, and his beloved Monterey — never mind that he passed away many years ago!

Lunch: We’ll pick up sack lunches, prepared fresh in Hidden Valley’s kitchen. You are welcome to eat on campus or take your lunch with you if you go out.

Afternoon: Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Public bus service is available across from the campus driveway.

Dinner: In the Dining Room.

Evening: A local winemaker or vineyardist will join us in the dining room for an introductory class to learn about new wines, the process that goes into producing them, and ultimately experience them through a tasting. Carmel Valley is perhaps the most distinct of the seven appellations comprising Monterey County’s diverse wineries; of these, Carmel Valley is perhaps the most distinct. Nestled in the Santa Lucia foothills, our summers yield exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and other red varietals.

DAY
4
Steinbeck Center, Monterey Bay Aquarium
Carmel Valley, CA
B,L,D
Lubow Lodge

Activity note: Stretching and breathing class in dance studio before breakfast. Getting on/off a motor coach; driving about 60 miles, approximately 1.5 hours riding time. Walking up to 2 miles; even sidewalks and pathways; standing at museums. Aquarium is handicapped accessible with elevators as well as stairs; wheelchairs available on-site; benches throughout the aquarium.

Breakfast: In the Dining Room.

Morning: We will board the motor coach for a field trip to the National Steinbeck Center in historic Oldtown Salinas. En route, we’ll drive along California scenic highways through oak chaparral and lush agricultural land. At the Center, we’ll delve more deeply into Steinbeck’s life through a docent-led exploration as well as on our own as we view art galleries inspired by his work, artifacts, and a rich local history. Docents will be available to answer questions, provide insights, and further enhance our experience. Please note that the National Steinbeck Center is within a building owned by California State Monterey Bay (CSUMB). As such, they are required to follow the safety regulations dictated by the CSUMB President and risk management department. Cleaning protocols have been enhanced throughout the building, and hand sanitizer stations have been placed at the Museum’s entry and in other locations throughout the Museum. They ask that you practice safe social distancing while at the Museum and stay home if you are not feeling well.

Lunch: Sack lunches.

Afternoon: Next, we’ll ride to the fascinating Monterey Bay Aquarium on Cannery Row. On the drive, we’ll see more scenic countryside and go through historic Cannery Row where Steinbeck’s best friend, Doc Ricketts, had his marine lab. This was the site of the canning industry that defined Monterey for years. The beautifully constructed Monterey Bay Aquarium cares for more than 35,000 creatures representing over 550 species that fill 34 major galleries. With nearly 200 exhibits in all, the Aquarium is a window to the wonders of the ocean. During our self-directed exploration, knowledgeable docents will be stationed at each exhibit to provide commentary and answer questions. We’ll return to Hidden Valley after our field trip.

Dinner: Dining Room buffet.

Evening: A local expert will continue our natural history focus with stories about the Point Lobos region that will give us background on what makes this area so fascinating.

DAY
5
Exploring Point Lobos State Natural Preserve
Carmel Valley, CA
B,L,D
Lubow Lodge

Activity note: Stretching and breathing class in dance studio before breakfast. Getting on/off a motor coach; driving about 30 miles, approximately 1 hour total riding time. Walking up to 2.5 miles with stops; well-maintained trails, a few rocks and roots. Dress in layers for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.

Breakfast: In the Dining Room.

Morning: We’ll board the motor coach for a field trip to Point Lobos State Natural Preserve with our local expert from last night. Upon arrival, we will enjoy the breath-taking beauty of the famous coast and hear stories connecting us with the nature, history, culture, and peoples of the area. Our expert will also lead nature walks as we enjoy the ocean panorama.

Lunch: In the field.

Afternoon: We’ll continue to explore Point Lobos. The California State Parks say that Point Lobos “in addition to the spectacular beauty, nearly every aspect of its resources is of scientific interest. There are rare plant communities, endangered archeological sites, unique geological formations, and incredibly rich flora and fauna of both land and sea. Deriving its name from the offshore rocks at Punta de los Lobos Marinos — Point of the Sea Wolves — where the sound of the sea lions carries inland, the Reserve has often been called the crown jewel of the State Park System. We’ll return to Hidden Valley after our field trip.

Dinner: In the Dining Room. Share favorite experiences and camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our last dinner.

Evening: At Hidden Valley, we’ll enjoy a film highlighting Monterey's region and culture. Or spend more time in the company of new Road Scholar friends with informal activities such as board games, cards, or puzzles over coffee or tea in the Fireside Room. Prepare for check-out and departure after brunch in the morning.

DAY
6
Jack London’s Experience, Program Concludes
Carmel Valley, CA
B,BR

Activity note: Stretching and breathing class in dance studio before breakfast. Check-out 11:00 a.m.

Breakfast: In the dining room before the last stretching class, light offerings.

Morning: Jack London, once a frequent visitor to our area, will stop by Hidden Valley to share his recollections of "the old days" and talk about his works — a fitting farewell to our program in magical Monterey.

Brunch: In the dining room, we’ll have a farewell brunch buffet to commemorate the great program we have enjoyed with new Road Scholar friends. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!






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