Travel

Utterly unique: Madonna Inn
01.03.10
How to adequately describe the majestic wonder that is The Madonna Inn? Wild and flamboyant. Unexpected and whimsical. Charmingly gaudy? One thing’s certain: the historic landmark is one of California’s most unique hotels. Located in San Luis Obispo, the 110-rooms at the Madonna Inn are all individually decorated with quirky themes like Love Nest, Cave Man (the entire room is encased in solid rock!), Oriental Fantasy, Golfers Room and Swiss Chalet—to name a few. Look for over-the-top and ornate touches such as rock fireplaces, waterfall showers and textured wallpaper. To take a peek at any of the rooms, click here.
Enjoy a fine steak meal at the inn’s Gold Rush Steakhouse, in a sprawling dining room full of lavish gold chandeliers, plush red and pink vinyl booths for an environment that’s a little kitschy and just a whole lot of fun. The near 50-year old establishment is also home to some award-winning cake! Its decadent cakes are filled with rich bavarian cream and topped with thick, chocolate curls.
Rooms at The Madonna Inn start at around $200 per night. Currently, the hotel’s Spa and Stay package features a one night getaway for two that includes: your choice of deluxe accommodations in one of the Inn’s uniquely themed suites and a 60-minute couples massage in at The SPA at Madonna Inn. The Spa Package is available Sunday–Thursday only. Includes one night stay for two in a suite (subject to availability) and a 60-minute couples massage. Price: $425 (gratuity not included).

Desert Retreat
12.08.09
For a quick getaway, the La Quinta Resort & Club is one of Palm Springs’ original hideaways—since 1926. The lush resort is located on 45-acres with 796 rooms, suites and villas, five championship golf courses, a 23,000 square-foot spa and 41 pools and 53 hot spas.
New to the sprawling resort is Morgan’s in the Desert, a hacienda-style restaurant with chef Jimmy Schmidt at the helm. Schmidt is regarded as one of the pioneers of America’s farm-to-table experience. Look for seasonal specialties such as pan-roasted breast of duck & foie gras with caramelized apple salad; porcini-crusted angus filet with grilled wild mushrooms and for seafood lovers, wild Washington State Coho salmon steak and roasted split spiny Santa Barbara lobster.
Rooms start at $159 a night at The La Quinta Resort & Club. Book a Winter Escape package now and receive anywhere from $50 to $200 in resort credits.
The La Quinta Resort & Club is located at 499 Eisenhower Drive, La Quinta.
760.564.4111
www.laquintaresort.com
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