Ain’t It Grand?

Chef William Bradley in the Addison kitchen; some of the restaurant’s beautiful dishes ready for service

San Diego’s stylish northern neighbor draws racing fans each summer to its famous tracks for special events, great dining and, of course, the ponies. But with last year’s introduction of the Bing Crosby Season in the fall, now there’s even more reason to check out the seaside town after the kids go back to school.

Gearing up for its second year, the special season named after one of Del Mar’s greatest fans kicks off October 29 and will run well into the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. In addition to the thoroughbreds, expect a lineup of amazing parties, food and drink, and music concerts. Glamorous guests might want to participate in Opening Day’s Vintage Hollywood Fashion Contest—a chance to don duds of another era and compete for nifty prizes.

Away from the tracks, another star attraction is the Grand Del Mar. This sprawling resort tucking into the Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve was recently purchased by Fairmont and retains all the Mediterranean splendor. Terra-cotta walls and red-striped awnings greet arriving guests at the entrance rotunda, your gateway to 249 beautifully appointed rooms, gift shops, a five-star spa, multiple dining options and more.

RIDING HIGH Left: Horseback riding on the trails of neighboring Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve  Right: the Fairmont Grand Del Mar

Fairmont Grand Del Mar’s signature restaurant, Addison, features Relais & Châteaux Grand Chef William Bradley’s artisanal approach to cuisine, combining local ingredients with contemporary French influences. If you feel like taking the party into the wee hours, the resort is also home to Club M, a popular local nightclub.

Mix, mingle and dance the night away with live music and guest DJs every weekend.  

But save some energy for tomorrow’s daytime activities. Enjoy tennis, the pool and horseback riding on canyon trails. And don’t forget the clubs. With stunning Los Peñasquitos Canyon as his canvas, designer Tom Fazio created a masterpiece of dramatic elevations, diverse bunkering and lush fairways with The Grand Golf Club.

For more on the Bing Crosby Season, visit dmtc.com.
To book a reservation at Grand Del Mar, call 858-314-2000 or visit fairmont.com/san-diego.