The Concierge Insider - Sausalito, California
Nancy DuBois
Chief Concierge, Member Les Clefs d'Or
Nestled in a glorious nook, right under the north end of the Golden
Gate Bridge, sits Cavallo Point Lodge.
Formally a military base dating back to 1901, the property has been
magnificently restored, incorporating historic rooms that were formerly
officers’ residences and contemporary suites with panoramic views of the bay
and bridge. The property also boasts the
very popular Murray Circle Restaurant, Farley Bar, a cooking school, healing
arts centre and a luxuriously rejuvenating spa with a meditation pool. A perfect getaway for a romantic weekend, family
vacation (steps from the Discovery Museum), sports enthusiasts wanting to run
or ride the bridge or hike the trails, or just a quick pampered getaway from the
city life!
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| Contemporary Room |
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| Farley Bar |
How long have you been
a concierge?
Twenty one years total, four of those at Cavallo Point
Lodge. We have also just welcomed Brian Miller to the desk who adds his own charm, ideas and Les Clefs d'Or skills.
Most memorable guest?
Ginger Rogers was a guest I will never forget, especially as
I had been a dancer as well. She took
the time to tell me her life story, and greeted me like I was an old
friend. It was truly memorable!
Most unusual request?
At a previous hotel I was asked to organize the shipping of
a deceased body back to Russia.
Craziest request?
“Could you please turn off the fog horn”, from a late night demanding
caller! Ummmm…
Favorite “hidden” gem?
There is a bench on the cliff at Muir Beach. At sunset, it's just pure
bliss!
Best "special night out" for romance or occasion?
I'd have to say our very own Murray Circle Restaurant. First, the surroundings of pure nature take you away from the bustle of the city or downtown, and then you enter the room with such beautiful Old World elegance, you feel transported to another world. Top that with the freshest locally sourced and ingredient-driven menu of Justin Everett, and you have an occasion for that someone special, or just a group of friends celebrating. We get a lot of locals, too, who visit quite regularly, just as an evening getaway of great food and wine! Our Wine Director, Gillian Ballance, is a Master Sommelier and is great helping you find that perfect bottle!
Best "special night out" for romance or occasion?
I'd have to say our very own Murray Circle Restaurant. First, the surroundings of pure nature take you away from the bustle of the city or downtown, and then you enter the room with such beautiful Old World elegance, you feel transported to another world. Top that with the freshest locally sourced and ingredient-driven menu of Justin Everett, and you have an occasion for that someone special, or just a group of friends celebrating. We get a lot of locals, too, who visit quite regularly, just as an evening getaway of great food and wine! Our Wine Director, Gillian Ballance, is a Master Sommelier and is great helping you find that perfect bottle!
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| Indian Springs hot pool |
Favorite 1 day getaway?
Indian Springs hot water pool in Calistoga.
Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Something people don’t
know about Sausalito?
The word “Sausalito” translates to “Little Willow Grove” as
it was originally covered in willow trees.
It was also once a WWII shipyard.
Favorite local
recreation?
Hiking Mt Tamalpias – the views are stunning over the bay and
the city.
Best local “splurge”?
I’m sorry but I have to say, go into the city and get
something from Cartier! The city is very
easy access! But locally, it would have
to be unlimited sushi and sashimi at Sushi Ran!
Best local “Value”?
Best unknown photo
spot?
Cascade Falls in Mill Valley.
Favorite International
destination?
Italy!
Most unforgettable
trip moment?
I was in a wheelchair on a trip to New York with my
brother. He had loaded me up with the
bags, then accidentally let go, and I went careening right into Don King! Not the way I would have hoped to meet him.
Favorite city to visit?
New York.
Favorite city hotel?
Hôtel Plaza Athénée, in New York and Paris.
Something no-one knows
about being a concierge?
“No” is not in our vocabulary (or shouldn’t be), we have a
very strict code of ethics and really have to wear many hats!
When you travel (aside from underwear) what do you never leave home without?
My miniature espresso coffee maker.
If you only have 1 day
in Sausalito, you must…?
Do the Historian-guided tour around the Italianate Mansions
and houseboats, Buckeye Roadhouse for lunch, kayaking, cocktails and oysters on
the Cavallo Point porch under the bridge at sunset and dinner at Poggio Trattoria.
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| Poggio Trattoria |
Best spot for people watching?
By the fountain where the ferries come in to Sausalito on a
Saturday afternoon. You get such an
interesting mix of tourists!
What are your favorite
travel apps and websites?
Trip Advisor and Kayak.
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