VIDEO: Take in the grounds that surround the La Quinta Resort and Club.
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Long known for its golf and tennis, La Quinta Resort and Spa has become a gateway to the Coachella Valley's world class equestrian events: HITS Thermal Desert Circuit Horse Show, showcasing some of the world's finest horses and riders now through mid-March; Eldorado and Empire polo matches, and the up-and-coming Dressage Getaway.
Prominent Southern California architect Gordon Kaufmann designed La Quinta Resort and Spa, as well as Santa Anita racetrack. Greta Garbo used to walk her horse to a specific spot on the property to watch the sun set each afternoon. What began as scenery long referred to as Land of the Eternal Sun is now a luxurious resort catering to equestrians seeking a luxurious respite.
Already defining desert style with its spa, facilities and services, all suited to equestrian athletes, La Quinta Resort and Spa has undergone a renaissance.
Starlight Casita patio at sunset with a private fireplace.
New water temperature regulation and shade structures on all resort pools offer cool, refreshing calm. At sunset, retreat to your upstairs Starlight patio with its own private fire feature. Guestrooms have updated furniture, power stations, splashes of restful, earth tones.
The pool and jacuzzi sit right outside the doors of the El Presidente Suite.
Traditional Spanish colonial design meets a sumptuous Art Deco for a blend of the past with comfort of the present. Spa Villas feature fully equipped kitchens for those wanting to make their own meals. The private, 2000 square-foot El Presidente Suite and compound is perfect for sharing.
Spa La Quinta has many hidden treasures that work particularly well for equestrians and their riding positions.
• Try the Game. Set. Match. Tennis massage or the Foot Reflexology to pinpoint tight areas from riding.
• Experience the Rosemary and Peppermint Awakening Body Renewal, perfect for skin in dust and feet in boots all day.
The Capra Suite was named for famed director Frank Capra with an original wood burning fireplace.
With more than 40 pools, equestrians have ample opportunity to swim for relaxation, build energy before a class, or stretch after a long day with the horses. Try the main pool, private pools, a lap pool and a Plunge 21+ Only Pool or one of the many lovely hot spas.
Early mornings come with riding horses. The Marketplace Gift Shop opens every morning at 6 a.m. with fruit, pastries, yogurt parfaits. And if you're in need of a short-sleeved polo shirt for your jumper class, visit Polo Ralph Lauren. The colors are exquisite.
The drive into La Quinta Resort and Club.
For lunch, visit the Centre Court Cafe. The mandarin chicken salad is perfect before afternoon classes. Try the Triple-decker PB&J for a carb fix, or half-pound strawberries and yogurt for a cool treat.
La Quinta Resort and Spa, 49499 Eisenhower Drive, La Quinta, 760-564-4111, www.laquintaresort.com
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What other hotels have we profiled: Hotel Essentials
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