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The Claremont Club and Spa, a Fairmont Hotel has seen a lot in her day. The castle on the hill, as she is fondly referred to by San Francisco Bay Area residents, has been around since the California Gold Rush era. Originally a private residence, The Claremont Club and Spa is now a Fairmont Hotel and for that, I’m thankful. Keeping an urban luxury resort of this size in tip top shape is a huge undertaking. Fortunately, Fairmont Hotels is reinvesting in the Claremont Hotel and this larger-than-life golden nugget, tucked in the East Bay hills, is shining brightly.
I had the pleasure of staying at The Claremont Hotel to experience for myself the $24 million renovation of the Claremont Clubhouse. This renovation, in addition to the updated hotel rooms, is a gold diggers delight for both private club members and Fairmont Hotel guests. With 276 guestrooms, including 37 suites, this grand dame is fit for royalty. Sorry that I’m not allowed to share all of the famous people that have stayed here over the years, but the Fairmont respects hotel guests’ privacy.
As the luxury hotel is close in proximity to UC Berkeley, it’s the ideal place to stay for families visiting students and the hotel is pet-friendly! If you need a doggie fix and you are not traveling with your own four-legged friend, pet Ozzie for me. The Labrador Retriever mix is a ball full of energy.
Speaking of energy, if you are traveling with kids or you like to keep up on your exercise regime while you travel, head over to the recently renovated Claremont Club & Spa. With over 90 weekly classes to select from, in addition to 3 outdoor swimming pools and 8 tennis courts, you have no excuse not to work out. Guests have access to all of the classes, in addition to a personal trainer (for an additional fee.) The main pool was lovely during my visit and all three pools are open year round.
Claremont Club & Spa
Another perk of staying at this Fairmont Hotel is up to 3 hours of complimentary childcare for both hotel guests and spa goers. My kids are grown, but I would have loved this benefit if I were enjoying a spa day at The Claremont. With 32 treatment rooms, the Forbes 4 star spa is worth a visit. I enjoyed the Tibetan Sound Vibrations 75 minute treatment. This was a new spa experience for me and it was wonderfully relaxing.
I always arrive early to a spa appointment to take advantage of the hot tub and fancy showers or simply to relax with a cup of tea in the lounge. This visit to the Claremont Spa was no exception. The saline deluge waterfall shower was like a mini neck and shoulder massage before I even began my treatment. The service at the spa was on point. I’ve stayed at many Fairmont Hotels, including the Rey Juan Carlos 1 Barcelona and I’ve never been disappointed with the spas.
It should be noted that the Fairmont will be renovating the Claremont Spa in the next year or two so look for an update from me when that happens!
Bay View Hotel Room
All of the 276 guest rooms and suites have been recently restored with care at the Claremont, keeping the old-world elegance, while bringing the Fairmont touch in the form of service and amenities. I love the Fairmont teas that are featured in the restaurants, served at Afternoon Tea and included in room.
It goes without saying that all rooms include flat screen tv’s, mini fridge, high speed internet and my favorite Fairmont Rose 31 bath amenities, in addition to terry cloth robes and slippers. For the rare times that air conditioning is needed in the Oakland Hills, all rooms have air conditioning.
If you happen to be traveling with kids, or you are a big kid yourself, splurge and order the homemade chocolate chip cookies with milk or the Berkeley Trail Mix Bar – so good!
Limewood Restaurant
As you’ve probably gathered, I’m a long time fan of the Claremont Club and Spa, before it was a member of the Fairmont Hotel. I’ve seen the restaurants come and go. Limewood Restaurant is the latest dining option to take up residence in its stellar location to the left of the front entrance. It’s a casual restaurant featuring regionally-sourced cuisine under the direction of Chef Joey Hattendorf. We loved the roasted sea bass and Wagyu beef cheek rigatoni, but it was the Hamachi crudo that stole the show.
The hotel is also offering Afternoon Tea on the weekend. While I haven’t had the pleasure of trying this particular Fairmont Afternoon Tea, I have enjoyed tea at the top at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. As an East Bay resident, it’s nice to know that we don’t have to drive into San Francisco to appreciate this fashionable and tasty tradition.
Room rates start at $279 to $379 depending on availability and room type. Valet and self-parking options are available on site. As always check the website for current pricing or special package deals. Make your reservation at the hotel website or through Hotels.com if you can get a lower rate.
Hotel review by San Francisco-based Travel Writer Nancy D. Brown. Photos © Nancy D. Brown. Claremont Club & Spa, Fairmont Hotel arranged my stay for review purposes.
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