The luxurious but low key Lodge at Torrey Pines.

I don’t know where PGA Tour rookie Brandt Snedeker slept Wednesday night, but judging by his blistering score of 61 in yesterday’s opening round of the Buick Invitational, there’s a good chance it was at the elegantly rustic and restful Lodge at Torrey Pines.

With rooms starting at $335 per night, the Lodge is not cheap, but it’s one of the best places you can stay on a San Diego golf vacation and a monumental improvement over the no-frills travel lodge that previously stood behind the 18th green of Torrey Pines’ South Course.

Owner William Evans had it constructed in the style of the early-20th-century California Arts and Crafts movement with exposed ceiling beams and rafters, hallways lined with mahogany and cherry wood and an entryway that features stained-glass panels. Though luxurious, there is nothing false or showy about it. It communes simply and comfortably with the environment, secluded from La Jolla’s trendy boutiques and congested traffic.

The spacious guest rooms can seem a little dark, but they are well appointed with fine Egyptian linens and replica furniture. The bathrooms are tiled in granite and Italian marble and feature twin vanities, a deep soaking tub with separate shower, and designer toiletries. Other special touches include a stocked minibar, Bose CD player, and a complimentary Internet connection.

Each room has a balcony, and the extra large Palisades rooms have fireplaces and views of the golf course and ocean. But, truly, all of the rooms are rich in character.

While these accommodations are top notch to be sure, the best part about staying at the Lodge at Torrey Pines is that you can obtain precious, guaranteed advance tee times.

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