By Jennifer Raskin
A haven for the rich and famous, or those who feel entitled to pamper themselves as such Palm Springs has all the makings for a fabulous stay. There’s the seemingly endless sunshine, extravagant amenities, and luxury options at every turn which provide plenty of ways to live life like a Hollywood starlet, even if for just a spell. Visit Palm Springs and discover the very reason why the famous flock to this famed destination of decadence.
Stay In Style
The Parker Palm Springs
Hanging on the edge of Palm Springs, this boutique-style property puts you in elbow-rubbing distance of movie stars and recording artists alike. Just 144 rooms and private units dazzle the eyes with energetic, bold, and fashionable décor. Three stunning pools, one of them indoors, all feature poolside bar service while the Palm Springs Yacht Club is a spa destination that ensures you’ll luxuriate appropriately. Don’t miss dining at the sultry supper club of Mister Parker’s or heading for a nightcap at the wine bar, Counter Reformation or Mini Bar, done up in gold and mirrors with heady martinis for a truly classic experience.
To learn more visit www.parkerpalmsprings.com.
The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage
For a truly luxurious stay in the most classic of terms, The Ritz-Carlton will never disappoint even those with the most discerning of tastes. With a heavenly view of the Coachella Valley, it puts you on an echelon above the rest, and we don’t just mean that literally. For a star-studded experience, almost every room in this luxury property treats you to a private patio or balcony with those breathtaking surrounds at every turn. Garden tubs allow for sensual soaking in private while two pools invite guests to indulge. With one pool exclusively for adults only, those without children can enjoy serenity in the immaculate surrounds of the San Jacinto Mountains. Relax with pure pleasure in the spa with one of many holistic treatments or more traditional facials and massages. Dining is exceptional at both the State Fare Bar + Kitchen and The Edge Steakhouse, the latter of which is only available for dinner service Wednesday-Sunday. And should you never want to leave the pool, the Air Pool Bar even offers made-to- order sushi along with your cocktails for the ultimate way to luxuriate under the California sun.
To learn more visit www.ritzcarlton.com; Photo: The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage.
Dine With Opulence
Le Vallauris
Classic French dining is the perfect way to cap off a day of luxury in Palm Springs. Located in a renovated 1927 Mediterranean home, this landmark has been renowned for decades as a place for the elite to dine. Amid the Flemish tapestries and cozy royal décor, you’ll be treated to creations from Chef Jean Paul Lair who himself travels back to his home of France yearly for renewed inspiration in tickling the palate. The offerings are written by hand daily, presented like the art they are from mere words to the brilliance set before you upon a plate. Try the sautéed foie gras, crab cakes, roast rack of lamb or tender veal chop, among other dazzling delights. Al fresco dining is available on the romantic patio for a special experience. Along with the kind of service that spoils you rotten, La Vallauris brings grandeur to your table with fantastic flourish.
To learn more visit www.levallauris.com.
The Tropicale
With dim lighting, the style is reminiscent of the old-school supper clubs from Miami. With plush high-backed banquettes and chandeliers, it’s a comfortable design inside, though enjoying your meal al fresco with the beautiful California weather is a luxury in and of itself. Outside, the lush and tropical patio features a backdrop of the desert sky, lit up with the stars. Exotic cuisine focuses on Pacific Rim flavors like Chilean sea bass with Thai shrimp curry, Hawaiian-style Kahlua-barbecued pork chops, tapas, and plenty more. Not to be missed are the signature desserts.
To learn more visit www.thetropicale.com.
Live In Leisure
Hiking
When in Palm Springs, do what the locals do. Aside from wiling away the days at the spa in your resort or sunning by the pool, hiking is one of the most pursued outdoor activities. There are trails for everyone from easy to difficult, all of which will take you closer to those spectacular mountain vistas, around natural streams and rocky gorges, past unusual rock formations and even bring you to waterfalls. With the desert air and massive palm trees combined with an alpine style wilderness, Palm Springs really is a bit of everything rolled into one. Of the most popular choices are Palm Canyon with the world’s largest fan palm oasis, the Andreas Canyon, Murray Canyon, and Tahquitz Canyon with the ultimate payoff for all the hiking…a stunning 40- foot waterfall!
Golf
If you’d prefer to walk around a green, then you should play through at one of the many golf courses. All told, there are over 100 of them. And with over 300 days of sunshine per year, Palm Springs happens to be one of the best destinations anywhere in the world for golfers. Whether you’re a novice or a pro, you’ll find courses that give you a challenge at any level. Designed by golf course legends like Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Greg Norman, you’ll find your perfect tee time in Palm Springs. The Desert Willow Golf Resort, PGA West Golf Club, and Indian Wells Golf Resort are just a few of the most revered.
