Holman Ranch Holman Ranch (brochure) : Page 1
weddings HOLMAN RANCH
Holman Ranch
Perched high above Carmel Valley, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, lies the almost-400-acre country estate of Holman Ranch. Once a hideaway for Hollywood celebrities, the completely restored Holman Ranch is perfect for your next event. Whether it’s a wedding celebration, an intimate gathering, or a corporate retreat, the unique surroundings of Holman Ranch will make your event a memorable one.
This wonderfully secluded getaway is conveniently located 12.3 miles from Highway 1, about a 20-minute drive from Carmel. We are conveniently located to all of the attractions of the Monterey Peninsula, but wonderfully secluded on our picturesque estate. Anything and everything is possible – just imagine.
Our reputation has been built on quality service presented in one of the Monterey Peninsula’s most unique and historic settings. Our staff is ready to assist you in hosting an event to remember…from beginning to the perfect ending.
The next time you are in the area, I would be more than happy to give you a tour. Your consideration of Holman Ranch is greatly appreciated, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely yours, Hunter Lowder Director of Hospitality
The story of Holman Ranch began when California was still part of Mexico. Under the Crown of Spain, the ranch was part of the lands bestowed on Mission San Carlos Borroméo del Rio Carmelo. In 1928, Gordon Armsby, a San Francisco businessman, purchased 600 acres in the Los Laureles area of the valley. The next year, Armsby hired architect Clarence Tantau, of Del Monte Hotel fame, to design the estate house on his new property. They erected impressive stone walls using local Carmel stone. They installed handmade Mexican terracotta roofing and hand-honed oak-beamed ceilings. Nestled in a stand of mature oaks and nicknamed the “Casa Escondida,” or “Hidden House,” the hacienda served as an exclusive hideaway for Hollywood celebrities, including Charlie Chaplin and Theda Bara.
In the 1940s, Armsby suffered hard financial times, forcing him to sell his Carmel Valley property. Clarence Holman, eldest son of the founder of Holman’s Department Store in Pacific Grove, purchased the ranch and converted it to Holman’s Guest Ranch. Over the years, Holman transformed the estate into a shining tribute to Carmel Valley’s unique architecture and natural outdoor beauty.
Holman Ranch became the center of Carmel Valley social life, and numerous parties and community events were hosted there.
The Holmans also continued the tradition of hosting Hollywood celebrities, including Clark Gable, Vincent Price, Joan Crawford, and Marlon Brando. Following the Holmans’ deaths, the estate lie abandoned for almost a decade. Eventually, it became court property and was purchased by Dorothy McEwen in 1989. While maintaining its historic past as a private home and public event facility, the house was restored and outfitted to accommodate celebrations of any kind.
The Lowders purchased Holman Ranch in 2006. Recently retired, they decided to spend the remainder of their years in beautiful Carmel Valley. Who could blame them? The Lowders have just recently restored the property to its original grandeur. They have maintained the old-world charm, while providing modern conveniences like heat, air-conditioning, flat-screen Tvs, and an integrated sound system.
Their daughter, Hunter, runs the special events department. She looks forward to sharing her family’s gorgeous property with you.
Celebrate an anniversary with a private dinner on the spacious lawn, host an authentic Western birthday party, or toss horseshoes with distant relatives at a family reunion. Step out of the ordinary for your annual office party, client appreciation events, and board meetings.
Anything and everything is possible at Holman Ranch. Black tie or denim and cowboy hats, rustic barbecues or elegant dinners, the celebration possibilities are only limited by your imagination. Please call to discuss your ideas and watch your dream event become a reality.
The Vineyards Located in a world-class grape-growing climate, Holman Ranch has a small family vineyard in production. Planted in 2000, the estate vineyard quickly expressed itself as an exceptional site for Pinot Noir. In an effort to provide complexity while maintaining the delicate varietal character, the vineyard is planted to Dijon Pinot Noir clones 667 and 777. It’s easy to see why so many people have chosen Holman Ranch as the backdrop for their special celebrations, with its surrounding vineyards and mountain panoramas.
Event Amenities We allow any licensed and insured caterer and vendors. We do not charge corkage or cakecutting fees. We only host one event at a time. A truly elegant private estate wedding with all the amenities of an event facility awaits you at Holman Ranch.
The Stabl es The Stables at Holman Ranch offer boarding, lessons, day camps, and trail rides.
Our intimate trail rides are set against 400 acres of scenic trails meandering through oak-studded hills, with panoramic views of the Carmel Valley countryside.
Contact us 60 Holman Road Carmel Valley, California 93924
* Please remember that all visits to Holman Ranch are by appointment only.*
831. 659.2640 www.holmanranch.com | events@holmanranch.com