Before I dive into this lovely hotel, can we talk about the fact that San Francisco has a beach? It was COLD as all get out (I sound like my mother), but it’s pretty remarkable. I took this picture so I can attest to that.
Following is my latest review for The Huffington Post. It’s not a masterpiece, but I had to write it because the Inn at The Presidio is such a unique destination, especially considering it’s on main land San Francisco and not in Merin county or The Valley. Usually I have you click through to Huff Po, but I’m going to post the whole thing here because I’m not a fan of their new slideshow feature.
“Historical landmark makes for hip hideaway in San Fran”
Have you ever noticed new hotels don’t spring up often in San Francisco? Come to think of it, there aren’t many good hotel options at all, in my opinion. So when I heard the first new hotel since 2009 had opened in April of last year and won a spot on Fodor’s Top 100 hotels list already, we passed on our St. Regis reservation to stay within the walls of The Presidio, an old military base at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge that turned out to be so much more!
To begin, I think we can all agree this might be the most unique and impressive view you’ll find from a hotel room in San Francisco. What I found I loved most about the Inn was not just the accommodations, but more so the natural landscape and historical preservation.
The lush land at the norther tip of San Francisco has been used for military purposes since the 1770′s. The US Army didn’t regain control of it until 1874 and finally established it as a permanent military base in 1849 during the Gold Rush.
The Inn, formerly the bachelor’s quarters called Pershing Hall, was recently renovated according to LEED standards with a simple, modern aesthetic that honors its history.
Located in the center of the Presidio property, the lodge has 22 rooms total, 17 of which are 3 room suites with views of the bay. Military accessories make reference to an officer’s quarters; you feel as though you could be asked to suit up at 0-six hundred.The living room has a gas fire place where we enjoyed the complimentary artisinal breakfast we brought up from downstairs. While the bathrooms appear suitable, the LEED certified water pressure makes you want to get in and out of there as quickly as possible.
Rates range from $195-$395.
The natural elements are actually the best part about your Presidio experience. You can hike the hills, walk to the beach at the base of the golden gate, play 18 holes on the public course, enjoy a glass of wine by the fire pit, or just take it all in while rocking on the front porch. Houses surrounding the natural preserve can go for as much as 25 million dollars for a reason!
If you aren’t staying at the Inn, I still highly suggest a visit while you’re in town.
The Presidio Social Club, located down the road from the Inn, is actually a hip hangout for locals. After our hike through the hills, sitting on the back patio sipping rose, I felt like I was in Napa! The only giveaway was the food; I’d say the dishes are just average. At night the restaurant, decorated like a diner, becomes quite a scene. If you’re want a table, make a reservation in advance.
You’ll find two of my favorite shopping and dining districts: Marina Blvd (top right) and Fillmore Street in Lower Pacific Heights. Great boutiques and local eateries that will blow your little foodie mind! Pop into any of them, you can’t go wrong.
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