In our latest edition of “Great Escapes,” we take you to the Los Angeles area, where we present luxury retreats close to the city that are worth the trip. If time permits, extend that business trip and book a few days here.
From ocean to desert to mountains, the four properties featured here are located in nature-centric destinations and easily accessible by car in two hours or less. All offer mild temperatures year-round and are well-suited for outdoor activities.
Palm Springs Theme Park
Parker Entrance / Photo: Courtesy of Parker Palm Springs
The Parker is a fashion-forward boutique resort that has been a favorite haunt of Hollywood stars like Barbra Streisand. Renowned designer Jonathan Adler is behind the bold aesthetic, which includes Moroccan textiles, modern furniture, and pops of bright color throughout. Spend your time in the exceptional spa indulging in a massage or other body treatment, or try your hand at tennis, bocce ball, or croquet. You can also book a yoga session on the Great Lawn, enjoy a tour and tasting in the wine cellar, or take a class on the history of cocktails. In the evenings, the property features a fire pit where guests are invited to sit and chat. The Palm Springs area offers hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, while the city itself has a robust dining, architectural, and shopping scene.
Ojai Valley Inn
Ojai Valley Inn, California / Photo: Courtesy of Ojai Valley Inn
Open since 1923, the Ojai Valley Inn is situated on 220 beautiful acres of oak and olive trees, wild sage and lavender. Set in the Topatopa Mountains, the property offers every activity imaginable to accommodate any type of guest.
Guests can spend time in the 31,000-square-foot spa or learn how to prepare healthy meals in the epicurean center. Other amenities include a beekeeping program, an artist studio, golf, tennis, and multiple pools. The signature restaurant, Olivella and Vine, serves delicious seasonal Italian cuisine. If you feel like venturing off the resort, you can visit the artsy town of Ojai or hike a variety of hiking trails.
Ponte Vineyard Inn, Temecula
Hot air balloon ride at Ponte Vineyard Inn, Temecula, California / Photo: Courtesy of Ponte Vineyard Inn
Located in Temecula’s wine country, Ponte Vineyard Inn sits on a 300-acre estate that produces excellent expressions of Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Tempranillo. Surrounded by mountains, this California Mission-style property offers a wealth of amenities, including a semi-Olympic pool and hot tub, an outdoor playground, manicured gardens and four restaurants, including Bouquet, with an ever-changing menu that highlights local produce.
Visitors can linger at Ponte Vineyard or stroll through several area wineries. They can also enjoy horseback riding, biking, hiking and hot air balloon rides. Other recreation options include historic Old Town Temecula, golf, museums and breweries.
Rosewood Miramar Beach, Montecito
Terrace of the Garden Bungalow Suite at Rosewood Miramar Beach, Montecito, California / Photo: Courtesy of Avabu/Ryan Forbes
Situated on a picturesque waterfront, Rosewood Miramar Beach is the area’s most luxurious resort. Spread across 40 landscaped acres of trees and plants, this glamorous property offers rooms with stunning Pacific views, two pools, shuffleboard and bocce courts, a spa with a long list of personalized massages and facials, and a full gym. Dining is a highlight: Southern Italian restaurant Caruso’s has a Michelin star, while AMA Sushi serves local favorites. The Cabana Bar is ideal for a midday drink, and the open-air Miramar Beach Bar buzzes with a chic crowd at sunset. Given the location, water sports like sailing and whale watching are mainstays, but the Rosewood’s concierge can also arrange hiking, tours of the many surrounding wineries, or picnics at local waterfront parks.
