by Patricia M. Lee

escribed as the jewel of Contra Costa County, the Lafayette Park Hotel stands out amidst the scenery along Highway 24 and glistens brightly in the hills of Lafayette. My husband, Chuck, and I have driven past it many times and wondered what it was. It wasn’t until we discovered that our granddaughter, Karen, was celebrating her wedding there that we realized the architecture reflects the style and elegance of a French Chateau.

The hotel, with its rich opulent furnishings, artistic works, spacious rooms and outdoor courtyards, is an ideal place to celebrate special events. The picturesque setting begins in the lobby where photographers delight in using the lower part of the three-storied curved staircase for individual and group photos.

Guests are challenged to hike the stairs and peek down the hallway where guest and meeting rooms can be found. Our luxurious room with a king-size bed, wood-burning fireplace and sitting area, also contained a desk, television and a mini-bar along with other amenities such as plush robes and a morning newspaper. Service is impeccable and includes twice daily maid check as well as 24 hour room service. With a two night stay we had time to sample the complimentary evening wine and taste the morning gourmet coffee served in the lobby.

We also had time to sample the cuisine in the renowned Duck Club restaurant and in the Bistro.

Guests may swim in the heated pool, exercise in the fitness center and then pamper themselves in the whirlpool spa and sauna. Specialty massages available include a Couples Candlelight Massage.

The hotel is within driving distance of Walnut Creek, San Ramon and Concord, and 30 miles from San Francisco across the Bay. A hotel shuttle is available within a 50 mile radius. Nearby attractions include the Lafayette Reservoir, Broadway Plaza, the Napa Valley Wine Country, the Lindsay Wildlife Museum, Mt. Diablo and Waterworld, USA.

Specialty massages available include a Couples Candlelight Massage.

The two outdoor courtyards in the center of the hotel provide lovely settings for special occasions such as our granddaughter’s wedding. Guests gathered in the larger Fountain Courtyard in the afternoon to celebrate. Sunlight enhanced the setting and the floral displays of blue hydrangeas, green shrubs and small trees which decorated the scene. The sunlight continued to shine on the bride and groom while they repeated their vows of love to one another. The bride, elegant in a white lace gown, sparkled like a jewel. The handsome groom displayed a blue satin vest and tie with his tuxedo.

The bridesmaids and attendants joined the newlyweds and guests for a champagne reception while the sun still beamed overhead. Then everyone gathered in the Independence Room nearby for dinner and dancing. It was a very festive and romantic time.

Memories linger whenever we drive Highway 24: the jewel still sparkles.

Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa. tel: 800/276-7415; www.lafayetteparkhotel.com

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