The Andalusian Court Delivers Old World Charm in Palm Springs

Stars Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Vic Morrow, and Victor Mature stayed there in its Hollywood heyday

Karen Graninger Hotels & Resorts

 

The Andalusian Court is an intimate seven villa, 1920's Spanish Revival style boutique hotel nestled amid mature palms, bougainvillea and bubbling fountains.

A wishing well with a fairytale mist greets you as you walk into this romantic wonderland in the Historic Tennis Club District, right near the best of shops and restaurants of Palm Springs.

 

Some villas feature outdoor bathtubs to soak under the stars.

 

Originally called the El Poco Lodge and owned by the Sinclair family, several of the buildings were constructed in 1921, making them among the oldest in Palm Springs. Family friends Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz stayed often. Actors Vic Morrow and Victor Mature also relaxed in the gardens and pool.

“When guests enter our gates, they get an immediate sense of well being," says Manager Kimberly Tucker. " We pride ourselves on the special details which makes The Andalusian Court your home away from home in every respect. There's something special to discover around every corner.”

 

The patio of Villa 4, where Desi Arnaz Jr. reportedly took his first steps while Lucy and Desi watched.

 

Spanish-style furnishings, stained glass windows, slate tiling, stone marble, beautiful beamed ceilings, complete kitchens, in-villa laundry and over-sized walk-in showers are just some of the unique features of the Andalusian Court. In villa eco-friendly fireplaces adorned with flickering electric candles create a restful, warm atmosphere to unwind and kick back.

Some of the villas have private outdoor whirlpool tubs and fire pits. One villa even offers its own private entrance from the street and is a perfect size for an exclusive gathering.

 

A wishing well with a fairytale mist greets you as you walk into this romantic wonderland.

 

Tucker adds how “service can be personalized to a great degree” by adding a romance or a wine and cheese package. Grocery delivery is possible through Jensen's Finest Foods. Massage therapy for singles and couples can be scheduled. Floral arrangements can be placed in your villa just prior to your arrival. Treat yourself to a bottle of Andalusian Court Champagne while soaking in an outdoor tub.

In addition to its beautiful architectural details, the hotel offers a cool, quiet meditation garden which fits 50 people, ideal for weddings and a sun-drenched pool with misters and bar area. Citrus trees are a special treat.

 

Relax and enjoy a tall, cool one by the charming, private pool.

 

"Guests are encouraged to pick their own lemons, oranges and grapefruit," Tucker says. "We enjoy seeing the playful smiles on their faces, delighted by the fact they can eat fruit directly from the trees.”

The Andalusian Court went through an extensive renovation and seismic retrofitting in the early 2000s. Johnston Hospitality was awarded the coveted “Gold Nugget Award of Merit” for design and architecture of The Andalusian Court at the 2002 Pacific Construction Builders' Conference.

 

Villa 8 is located in one of the oldest buildings in Palm Springs. It was built in 1921.

 

Hotel Essentials: Grocery delivery, in-villa kitchens, laundry, Spanish revival architecture, romantic Old World feel and color.

The Andalusian Court, 458 West Arenas Road, Palm Springs, 760-323-9980, www.theandalusiancourt.com

 

Follow Karen on Twitter: @gloriousallianc

What other hotels have we profiled: Hotel Essentials

 

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