Why travellers love Palm Springs

Why go?

It may be home to over a hundred golf courses but Palm Springs is much more than a place to work on your swing. In a city where rain is practically a myth, sun worshippers and seasoned hikers will feel right at home. During the 1950s and 60s, this oasis in the Coachella Valley was a playground for A-listers such as Sinatra and Elvis to escape the bright lights of nearby LA. This desert town’s Hollywood heyday has made it a vintage shopper’s paradise. On Palm Canyon Drive you can dig for all kinds of retro treasures, like space-age acrylic tops or 50s frocks.

If you’re in a more outdoorsy mood, there’s no better view than from the Aerial Tramway. This rotating tram car climbs to 2,600 metres alongside the towering cliffs of Chino Canyon. After exploring the miles of surrounding mountain trails, ease your aching joints in a desert hot spring full of healing mineral water.

When to go?

As lack of sunshine is no issue in Palm Springs, you might want to visit during the more comfortable cooler months between January and May. Temperatures peak in August with an average of high of 42°C, but this still makes for pleasant morning hikes.

Where to stay?

La Maison Hotel

It’s fair to say that the owners of La Maison Hotel know the way to their guests’ hearts, with free poolside beer and wine offered daily. The hotel is close to the bustle of Downtown LA but you’ll find plenty of peace in the courtyard complete with barbecue and seating area. They also get bonus points for offering free cruiser bikes to explore the area.

Little Paradise Hotel

Enveloped by majestic mountains and swaying palm trees, you can see where Little Paradise Hotel gets its name from. Lay your towel on a sun lounger and while away your afternoon by the outdoor pool. Rooms offer curved 4K TVs and some even have a patio.

The Monkey Tree Hotel

The Monkey Tree Hotel has maintained its 1960s style but also added modern amenities, such as the area’s first Scandinavian spa. The hotel has housed the likes of Eric Clapton, The Beatles, and even a rendezvous between JFK and Marilyn Monroe. The owners also offer homemade treats like banana fritters and muffins at breakfast.

Del Marcos Hotel

The visually striking Del Marcos Hotel is brimming with modernist style. Its quirky swagger is emphasised by an angled roof, vivid colours, and chic furnishings. There’s also a saltwater pool and plenty of sun loungers so you can top up your tan.

ARRIVE

Every hotel should have a few aces up its sleeve, and ARRIVE doesn’t disappoint. Not only does it come with its own ice-cream store, there’s also ‘dive-in’ movie nights by the pool, and a stylish exterior as jagged as the mountains which surround it. In the evening, grab a draught beer from the on-site bar and keep warm by one of the cosy fire pits.