Ritzy

After seven years of planning and construction, one of the most esteemed luxury resorts in Palm Desert finally opened in May. From high atop a bluff- 650 feet above the Coachella Valley- the Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage rekindles the spirit of one of the desert’s finest hotels. Transforming a property that had been converted into the Lodge at Rancho Mirage back into a Ritz was no easy feat as its reopening was derailed by the collapse of financial backer Lehman Brothers in 2008. Now, the 86th property in the luxury chain looks completely different- and completely gorgeous- as they’ve moved toward a more modern aesthetic that is sure to draw a new brand of tourist to the area.

244 guest accommodations feature private balconies and patios- some with their own fire pits- and other amenities include a 25,000 square foot spa with 15 treatment rooms and a full menu of treatments, a fitness center, an outdoor meditation mesa, and an outdoor co-ed whirlpool with views of the Coachella Valley. State Fare Bar and Kitchen presents the best of California cuisine in a relaxed, multi setting dining environment. A true luxury desert experience, the Ritz-Carlton is surrounded by palm trees and snow capped mountains which provide a stunning visual, and although Palm Springs proper may be cool once again with a slew of hip hotels, restaurants and shops, true glamour is what this desert getaway is all about. www.ritzcarlton.com