Originally built in 1925 as a winter retreat of a powerful Los Angeles millionaire, The Willows Historic Palm Springs Inn is now an exclusive private getaway.
Located on West Tahquitz Canyon Way, at the very base of Mt. San Jacinto, The Willows is just a short distance from buzzing downtown Palm Springs where one can enjoy a plethora of restaurants, shops, boutiques, wine bars and night spots.
The Inn has hosted some of the world’s most famous people from movies stars like Shirley Temple, Diane Keaton, Robert DeNiro and Cameron Diaz to royalty, politicians and empire builders. Most notable is the frequent visits of Dr Albert Einstein, photographs of Einstein at The Willows can be found throughout the house creating a wonderful sense of romance and charm.
Designed as a classic Mediterranean style villa by notable LA based architect William J Dodd, the Inn quickly became the most beloved landmark of downtown Palm Springs. Dodds design took full advantage of the land, incorporating expansive and inviting terraces, where guests can still wander, sunbathe or even dine today.
The most impressive and unique feature of the Willows is the famous hillside garden which you make your way to via a meandering, rustic pathway that leads a top the property to a flat hideaway. There you can sit and gaze out to a stunning and expansive 360 view. Images of Einstein sat in this exact same spot can be found, it is said this was his favourite spot to think and relax and watch the sunset.
The Inn has eight rooms each with their own unique personality. The finest finishes were used including rich mahogany woodwork, colourful Spanish tiles, some several hundred years old, intricate ironwork and hand chiseled limestone.
Although they have successfully managed to keep the rooms’ 1920s aesthetic they are all fully equipped with WiFi, iPod docks, climate control, hidden flat screen TVs with cable and coffee machines.
Key places to explore within the Inn include the dining room which over looks and opens out to a picturesque 50 foot waterfall. A delightful menu of fresh fruit, seasonal treats and evening wine and d’oeuvres are included in the nightly rate. Room service is available.
A large open balcony looks out to the below terrace which holds a great sized heated swimming pool and adjacent jacuzzi.
A perfect venue for weddings, celebrations and corporate events, holding around 75 guests. The hotel’s sister property The Thomas O’Donnell House, located just above the hill from Willow, can be reserved separately or combined for larger gatherings holding up to 125 guests.
Nightly rates are between $395-$720 depending on the room type and day of the week.
The Willows is just as enjoyable and charming today as it was when it was first built, the perfect romantic getaway for two where you can fully unplug and soak up the vintage atmosphere, making you feel like you are living in a 1920s postcard.
To find out more information and to book your stay, visit their official website here.
Latest
