That’s not a shiny mirage you see in the scorching desert heat… it’s La Quinta Resort, the oasis of relaxation and recreation you have been searching for!
Just outside Palm Springs, La Quinta still whispers luxury to those lucky enough to know it.
Old Hollywood stars like Bette Davis, Greta Garbo and Errol Flynn popularized this retreat years ago along with famous athletes who (continue to) grace La Quinta’s 40 plus sparkling pools, maze of Spanish casitas and villas, gorgeous golf courses and pristine tennis courts. It was ultra chic then and easily maintains it’s chic appeal now.
How come I haven’t heard of it? Well, some may be privy to La Quinta because of its renowned golf courses and tennis courts, or maybe a love for old Hollywood, but I find most people are unbeknownst to it, especially if they are not a southern California native.
Did I mention, there’s an incredible spa, gym, luxury retail shops and fine dining to additionally take advantage of? With majestic views of the surrounding Santa Rosa mountains, leaving this cozy desert cocoon feels like a chore.
La Quinta’s gorgeousness can be enjoyed individually, as a romantic duo or even fun for a big group. La Quinta offers small casitas or larger villas with many rooms, depending on the size of your group and the type of trip you are seeking. It’s a versatile resort, in that it’s fun flying solo for much-needed relaxation or if you want to party it up in the desert with your friends!
Over forty pools… I know what you are thinking. It’s not a kid-heavy scene. Sure, there are some pools with kids playing, but I only noticed child’s play in the largest pool near the gym and tennis courts. There are over forty others to choose from and an adult pool (I recommend) with refreshing drinks and music that will make you feel single (again). Well, wait a minute, it’s not a cheesy Vegas pool scene with half-naked attendees. It’s understated and relaxing where you can have a cocktail or two sans children, just to be clear.
I highly recommend the spa! It is so lovely and the treatment I had was by far the most interesting in my history of facials. I braved the “HydraFacial”. I will say upfront, if you are looking for a soothing, blissful facial this is not the treatment you want. If you want gorgeous and glowing skin as soft as a baby’s bottom and you’re okay with a little tug here and there… well then, this is your treatment. What feels like a suction cup will glide all over your face pulling out days worth (maybe months?) of lotion, dirt, and sunscreen right out of your skin. It’s aggressive but has zero downtime. In fact, your skin will look wonderful after. My esthetician was especially sweet and even gave me the “Perk Lip” treatment as a bonus. Yes, my lips plumped up magically afterward! If you’re looking for luscious lips, pucker up. The extra bonus with the facial? She showed me a vial of everything that came out of my pores! I’m cut from the “gross-but-that’s-sooo-fascinating!” cloth. The choice is yours (to see or not to see), I myself had to (and was oddly thrilled with it).
Let’s not forget the adorable sprinkling of boutiques and assortment of restaurants at La Quinta! Being lectin free, I was especially impressed with Morgan’s restaurant. The whole menu blew me away with lectin free options galore to chose from. The food was incredible, to say the least, and the ambiance very romantic, both inside and out. Grab a tasty cocktail inside a dark and moody bar and opt to sit outside for dinner that will make you want to linger and eat more than your fair share.
On the weekends, Adobe Grill heats up the fire pit and has live music for you to enjoy while stargazing in the evening desert heat. Wander around the grounds in the day or evening and marvel at the thoughtful landscaping and architectural touches that ooze charm and sophistication. Get lost and find interesting features like Greta Garbo’s love seat where she sunbathed with her lover or a pleasing rock waterfall to sit by. Enjoy the sound of lightly rushing water and catch glimpses of hot pink bougainvillea coloring the many other nooks and crannies yet to be discovered.
Remember, there are plenty of things to do just a stone’s throw from La Quinta! Maybe you’re tired of sunbathing by a beautiful pool, walking the expansive grounds, and playing tennis? The desert has incredible hiking and Palm Springs in itself has innumerable things to do as well and is only a short drive away. It’s just hard to pull away from La Quinta’s charm…
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