Growing up in Oakland, I often found myself wandering to Berkeley’s Telegraph Ave., where the Claremont Resort & Club stood as a grand monument. Its striking white façade, commanding a view over the Berkeley Hills, encapsulated elegance during my high school years and symbolized a touch of timeless charm.
This iconic structure eventually wove itself into the fabric of my life. I celebrated weddings, gatherings, and even personal retreats at the Claremont, drawn in by its magnificent allure. So when the opportunity arose for me to spend a night in the Tower Suite—complete with an expansive rooftop terrace overlooking the Bay—it felt like a return to a cherished sanctuary, elevated both in experience and emotion.
A Century of Presence
Claremont Resort & Club opened its doors in 1915, nestled on 22 acres at the conjunction of the Berkeley and Oakland hills. Its historical roots echo the elegance of its architecture: a grand Tudor-style estate, evolving over the years into one of the region’s iconic landmarks. Through diligent restorations, its classic design has been preserved while modern amenities cater to today’s guests. A recent management change welcomed a celebratory chapter, as the resort marked its 110th anniversary and embarked on a thoughtful restoration under a new independent brand. Yet, its essence remains untouched, establishing the Claremont as a presence that transcends mere bricks and mortar.
Rooms With a View
Offering 276 guestrooms and a select collection of suites, the Claremont masterfully balances grandeur with tranquility. My accommodations in the Tower Bay View Suite featured generous living space, complemented by a rooftop terrace that opened up to breathtaking views of the Bay below. The sparkling lights of Oakland and San Francisco twinkled in the twilight, while the Presidential Suite and other one-bedroom options ensured a similar blend of understated luxury and thoughtful design, each presenting a cinematic perspective on the Bay.
Dining Above the Bay
The culinary centerpiece of the resort is Limewood Bar & Restaurant, where a vibrant atmosphere unfolds amid brasserie-style black-and-white tiles, a stamped tin ceiling, and cozy purple banquettes. With a stunning view as a backdrop, Limewood sets the stage for a memorable dining experience, whether for a special occasion or a casual dinner with friends. The inviting menu complements the elegant yet relaxed vibe, making it suitable for guests of every age and mood. And, of course, the view enhances the experience, serving as the perfect finishing touch.
The nearby Lobby Lounge offers a cozy spot for light bites or a morning caffeine fix. For a more casual experience, East Bay Provisions serves up Oakland-based Mr. Espresso coffee, fresh pastries, and quick snacks. During my morning coffee outing, I noticed the atmosphere buzzed with both hotel residents and club members who had just completed a workout. The highlight here is the pastry program. The resort maintains a century-old sourdough starter, affectionately named “Lenny,” supplying its signature breads and pastries. The renowned “squassant,” a seasonal fusion of croissant and doughnut, has achieved viral status and is a daily must-have, often selling out quickly.
The Club: An Urban Escape
What makes The Club at the Claremont exceptionally inviting is its unique offering: a sprawling private club within lush hillside grounds, featuring palm trees, manicured gardens, and an abundance of space that feels increasingly rare in the Bay Area. With a Mediterranean flair, sun-drenched furnished decks overlook perfectly manicured gardens paired with the shimmering Bay beyond.
Three heated outdoor pools form the heart of this inviting space, where one can effortlessly spend an entire day going between lap swimming, lounging on the deck, and finding a shaded corner for reading. Coupled with a soothing spa treatment, the experience becomes a blissful day retreat.
The fitness and recreational options contribute to the club’s lively ambiance, including Pilates and cycling studios, a robust class schedule, and a vibrant tennis and pickleball community that keeps the courts abuzz from dawn until dusk. Every detail here conveys a sense of spaciousness—both in physical area and welcoming atmosphere.
The Spa and Its Treasures
The Spa at the Claremont is one of the resort’s standout features. A sanctuary that offers treatments inspired by both classic and modern techniques, it provides an array of massages, facials, body therapies, and hydro therapies in an ambiance designed for relaxation. My hydrating facial left my skin glowing so much that I felt comfortable dining at Limewood without any makeup—a rarity for me.
The adjacent gift shop is another treasure, offering a range of quality souvenirs tied to the University of California, Berkeley crowd. From skincare products to books and wellness items, locals likely regard this shop as a go-to for thoughtful gifts. It’s that kind of place where you think you’ll just browse but walk out with something meaningful.
A Team That Defines the Experience
What sets the Claremont apart is not only its stunning architecture and hillside views but also the remarkable longevity of its staff. Many team members have dedicated decades to the property, instilling a warm, confident culture of service. Their familiarity with returning guests fosters an atmosphere of continuity that modern hotels often lack.
Enduring Appeal
For me, experiencing the Claremont evokes the nostalgia of my youth, the joy of shared celebrations, and the perspective that comes with adulthood—all at once. The hotel that once seemed imposing from below is just as enchanting from a closer view, though now its charm transcends architectural beauty; it’s also woven into my emotional tapestry.
The Claremont stands out not solely for its impressive size or views but for how it has integrated with the lives of those around it for over a century. For anyone who has admired it from Oakland or Berkeley, the chance to unwind within its historic walls feels like a blend of luxury and heartfelt homecoming.
