Rosewood Sand Hill

When tech entpreneurs and venture capitalists want to drop a few thou on a magnum of Chateau Lafite, they do it at Madera, the scene-y restaurant at the Rosewood Sand Hill. But the flashiness ends there: The resort itself maintains a peaceful ambiance, located on 16 acres in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, with plenty of space for outdoor gardens, terraces and the pool deck. The style is laid-back and authentically Californian, with copious wood and stone, a neutral palette, and contemporary art pieces throughout. The 121 guest rooms are spacious, with private terraces overlooking the mountains, huge bathrooms with terrific rain showers, and (no surprise), top-notch technology like Philips SoundBars and flat-screen TVs.

A peaceful resort that doubles as a Silicon Valley hotspot.

Activity-oriented. There's a pool and spa, but kids will be bored.

You're staying in Silicon Valley on business or to visit Stanford, and you want to mingle with the local geniuses at a country-club-style resort.

Wandering in the peaceful and perfectly manicured gardens that weave through the hotel and spa.

Madera - Michelin-starred. California cuisine focusing on using fresh local ingredients The Pool Bar & Grill - Offers a delicious selection of light meals and healthy snacks, under the pool trellis or served poolside