A gem in the middle of the desert
La Quinta, California, is a beautiful small town nestled within the Coachella Valley with the Santa Rosa mountains creating the most incredible backdrop. To further my excitement, La Quinta Resort and Spa is truly inspiring drawing from the landscape surrounding the resort. A Hollywood royalty history stretching back to the 1920’s offering a tranquil escape to the celebrities, today it includes a Tom Fazio designed golf course (ranked within the top 100 US golf courses).
The hotel offers unique classic styled casitas ranging from garden casitas and starlight casitas to beautiful casita suites with private courtyards. Each casita carries the heritage and design showcasing the history of the property and perfect harmony with the surrounding landscape. This property is truly an escape I have now made my go to place whenever I find a spare few days I am in southern California.
After a few days soaking up the charm of the resort, which I should mention is a ‘Waldorf Astoria’ managed resort, you will be ready to explore beyond the borders of the resort property. Within the town of La Quinta itself you will find ‘Old Town’ where there are some great little independent restaurants to dine and a vibrant and bustling coffee culture for those mornings when you want to be amongst the locals, if not only to people watch.
A short drive away, and I would strongly recommend a car when staying in La Quinta, is Palm Springs (about 20 miles). Palm Springs is a cultural oasis within the desert. There is always something going in Palm Springs to spark interest. Again, Palm Springs is steeped with Hollywood legacy, a collection of Native American heritage amidst a collection of mid-century modern architect. Whether it be culture, entertainment, local shopping or dining, Palm Springs will deliver!
My personal favourites have been two local hikes. The first and most interesting included breath-taking views over Palm Springs and surrounds whilst taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to Mt San Jacinto. Upon reaching the peak of the tram, you feel you have been swept from Palm Springs and the desert surrounds with lush and tall forests and a hint of cool in the air. I wish I packed a jacket! The second was the Andreas Canyon trail which is an easy two-mile loop along a quiet stream with ledges used by the Cahuilla women.
Southern California must be a favourite destination of mine when I visit the United States, and upon discovering La Quinta and Palm Springs, I can honestly say I found a place I will recommend to those seeking somewhere to travel differently yet still feel the charms of a small town welcoming all. I know I will return to La Quinta Resort and Spa when the time comes to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the big cities offer.