Another year, another few dozen California getaways, and that means it is time for this travel writer to go back and find the best of the best for this year's Cary Awards. As in past years, we will take a look at some of the more memorable experiences of the year and single out those deserving of special recognition.
Not that any of these places really care. It's not like they are running ads in Travel and Leisure magazine campaigning for their Cary Award. But in our humble little way we'd like to give each of these a hearty "job well done" and, at the same time, let our readers know about some especially enjoyable getaways they may have missed reading about.
So without further delay, the envelopes please …
The Best Family-Run Resort this year goes to Rankin Ranch, where Bill Rankin has done a remarkable job transforming part of a working cattle ranch into a popular kid-friendly resort. When guests come to the Kernville-area Rankin Ranch, more than likely they will become part of Bill's extended "family" — legions of repeat customers who now account for 75 percent of ranch guests. There's just something that feels good about experiencing a few days in the life of a hard-working ranch family where old-fashioned family values aren't really old-fashioned. Bill and his wife, Glenda, set an example for a son and three daughters who have been raised on ranch chores and self-reliance. Throughout their stay, guests will encounter family members cooking, serving, organizing and, yes, making sure those ranch chores still get done every day.
