Cavallo Point, the Lodge at the Golden Gate 601 Murray Circle • Sausalito • California 94965

History, ecology, and luxury all blend seamlessly together at Cavallo Point Lodge, the multiple award-winning, meticulously restored Colonial Revival complex tucked away like a gorgeous surprise at the northern foot of the Golden Gate Bridge.

The views are breathtaking from anywhere on this property set on 75,000 acres of sunny national parkland, but especially from the Mission Blue Chapel. Named after an endangered California butterfly, this pristine, cream-colored structure stands high on a hillside covered with tufted grasses and California native plants. Its adjoining terrace is ideal for light-hearted gatherings, and affords a vista of San Francisco, the sparkling bay, and the towers of the Golden Gate Bridge rising above the pines and eucalyptus through tiaras of clouds.

There are no pews in the chapel, which has large picture windows, gleaming honey-colored floors, and a low stage that make it an excellent setting for anything from a meeting of the minds to a wedding ceremony or reception. But perhaps you'll want to take your celebration outdoors to the Mission Blue Lawn, where your guests can enjoy an elegant hilltop affair or an exchange of vows framed by the incomparable natural panorama.

At the foot of the hill, the Callippe Terrace—also named to honor a rare butterfly—is another prime party venue. This one comes with a welcoming fire pit, comfortable seating and a lovely view of historic Fort Baker. Team it up with the Callippe Ballroom and the Callippe Foyer for an ultra-grand indoor-outdoor fête. Large, lounge-like alcoves flanking the doors add to the sense of grandeur. If you need a place for additional activities, the handsome Silverspot Room on the opposite side of the ballroom can be used as a minitheater, a children's playroom, and more.

Not enough possibilities? The lodge offers an amazing 14,000 square feet of adaptable function rooms and formal meeting space. Traipse upstairs to where the balconied Verbena Room and Foyer, La Mariposa Borracha Room, and the Cavallo Point Cooking School kitchen multiply ways to maximize your event experience. Imagine serving cocktails or dinner in a graceful salon with fireplace and thrilling wraparound views, or a group lesson in the art of fine cuisine in the warmth of a spotless, professionally equipped, wine country-style kitchen.

Added to all this are day-of accommodations for the bride, a luxurious spa, Sula restaurant, Sula Lounge, Farley, and a dreamy veranda designed for sitting back and soaking up the wild beauty of the surrounding terrain. You won't want to leave the grounds and you don't have to. The magnificently renovated two-bedroom family-friendly suites and guest rooms and glamorous contemporary lodgings are a great place for you and your guests to settle in and relax for a weekend … or embark on an extended stay full of fun-filled exploration. Any journey that begins here is bound to be a glorious one.