La Quinta Resort in Palm Springs California

This Historic Resort and Club is Known as the Queen of the Desert

Sep 6, 2008

As autumn breezes cool the desert sun, this is the perfect time to escape to this historic resort and spa for recreation, relaxation and sumptuous dining.

The historic La Quinta Resort & Club (www.laquintaresort.com), located 19 miles southeast of Palm Springs, is the quintessential Palm Springs resort. An oasis that is seemingly carved from the surrounding Santa Rosa Mountains, the sprawling property boasts world-class golf, tennis, dining, spa facilities, boutique shopping and an abundance of activities. And with 42 pools, and 53 hot tubs, guests can swim or soak year-round.

La Quinta was founded in 1926 and has been an emminent Coachella Valley destination for the past 80 years. Its history mirrors that of old Hollywood, as it was a favored retreat for the rich and famous. Names such as Greta Garbo, Clark Gable and Frank Capra are part of the fabric of the hotel’s storied past. It is still a haven for athletes, celebrities and the discerning traveler.

La Quinta has evolved from its original 20 adobe casitas to now include nine championship golf courses, 23 tennis courts, seven restaurants and 796 casitas, suites and villas on the manicured grounds. More than 700,000 flats of flowers are planted each for the dramatic, jewel-toned landscaping.

The 23,000 square-foot Spa La Quinta is a full-service facility that, along with Yamaguchi Salon, offers beauty, therapy and relaxation treatments that incorporate indigenous ingredients and methodologies inspired by the region’s Native American ancestors.

The orange blossom body scrub, for instance, is a fragrant combination of exfoliation, massage and hydration that will is designed to promote deep relaxation and leave skin silky soft. The treatment includes a Vichy shower, which is a device that employs multiple showerheads attached to a maneuverable arm, that washes the client after each phase of treatment, so they do not need to get up and shower. The therapist then rolls down the wet top sheet and plastic sheeting beneath to reveal a set of dry sheets below.

Indoor and outdoor relaxation rooms provide ideal venues for relaxing after a treatment is complete. Sip chilled lemon water or herb tea while reclining on a cushioned chaise on the patio or, if it's too warm, the air-conditioned indoor sanctuary will ideal end to your indulgent treatment. During the day, enjoy light appetizers, salads and sandwiches from the Spa Bistro menu. For a spa menu and reservations, contact spa@laquintaresort.com or call 800.598.3828.

Save with Seasonal Packages

Any season is a great time to visit La Quinta. Summer is hot, but the prices drop with many affordable package incentives.

The Spa Getaway package includes an overnight stay in a resort casita, two 50-minute spa treatments, and $50 dining credit from $389, October to December. The Best of the West package offers an overnight stay, unlimited golf on La Quinta Resort courses or at the resort courses at PGA WEST for $304 from September to December.

The Golf Package includes an overnight stay, unlimited golf on the championship courses and a $50 dining credit from $304, September to December.

The Best of La Quinta package includes an overnight stay, one round of golf at one of the five championship courses, a 50-minute spa treatment and $50 dining credit for $319 in the fall. Packages are based on availability and do not include taxes and resort charge.

After a day on the course, by the pool or at the spa, dine al fresco at Twenty 6, (www.twenty-6.com) the sushi bar and steakhouse with a hip, urban vibe. Start with a chilled Margatini then work your way through the multi-course offerings, which includes the freshest seafood and decadent steaks. The filet mignon will melt in your mouth. Twenty 6 is located at 49-499 Eisenhower Drive, La Quinta, CA 92253. Call 760.564.5720 for reservations.

Or, if you’re more in the mood for authentic Mexican, try the Adobe Grill. Chips are served with an assortment of fresh salsas. Specialty dishes include Caldo de Mariscos, southwester boulliabaisse and guacamole made tableside. The restaurant is also renowned for its shrimp fajitas. For reservations, call 760.777.4835.

Dinner may be done, but the night is still young. Sip a cocktail under the stars while sultry summer breezes caress you on the Adobe restaurant terrace. Live entertainment and a large fire pit will help make it a stay to remember.

La Quinta Resort & Club is located at: 49-499 Eisenhower Drive, La Quinta, CA 92253, 800.598.3828

The copyright of the article La Quinta Resort in Palm Springs California in California Travel is owned by Susan Belknapp. Permission to republish La Quinta Resort in Palm Springs California in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.