Events: The Quail

Christian Gulliksen

02/01/2005

Even the most intrepid automotive enthusiast has difficulty taking in every offering during the long August weekend centered on the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. For four or five days, the Monterey peninsula is overrun with automobilia of every variety. In addition to the classic concours on Sunday, there are the historic races at Laguna Seca, where earplugs are recommended; the vast Concorso Italiano, crowded with Italian sports cars; several auctions; and an array of fetes hosted by manufacturers, sponsors, and clubs.

A recent addition to the weekend’s festivities is The Quail, held for the last two years at Carmel Valley’s Quail Lodge. The Quail’s organizers bill the event as a “motorsports gathering,” and the main attraction is an assemblage of 120 classic automobiles. A highlight of last year’s event was a lengthy procession of pristine Ferrari 250 GTOs arriving on the greens early in the afternoon; the harmony of their exhaust notes alone was worth the price of admission. The Quail intends to remain on a relatively small scale, keeping its invitation list to around 120 cars and limiting attendance so the show never feels crowded. (It’s a good idea to get your tickets well in advance if you plan to go.) Indeed, The Quail feels like a relaxed respite where you don’t have to jostle for space or wait in lines. It is a thoroughly enjoyable event and well worth a visit. (Click image to enlarge)

Cars are not The Quail’s only draw, though. Surrounding the displays are tents with food, wine, and beer–all included with admission–as well as purveyors of specialty items and luxury goods so those less interested in the cars can shop. There are accommodations on site at the recently renovated Quail Lodge, and down the road at sister property Bernardus Lodge, a luxe spa known for its winery and restaurant, Marinus.

The Quail, 877.734.4628, www.quaillodge.com
Bernardus Lodge, 831.658.3550, www.bernardus.com