Words by Pallavi Mehra
A Relais and Châteaux property, Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa reflects the spirit of Southern California, perfect for a fairy-tale getaway steeped in nature.
This Mediterranean-inspired resort is one of the world’s most renowned hotels, much sought-after for its thoughtful hospitality, impeccable service, and awe-inspiring setting. Pallavi Mehra checked in to find out more.
Hotel
Established in 1989, this award-winning property is set amidst 45 acres of well-landscaped gardens and olive groves. The hotel’s Spanish colonial hacienda-inspired architecture complements its exquisite interiors. At Rancho Valencia, sophisticated design and breath-taking architecture add to the magnificent scenery. The resort is a favourite of politicians and celebrities and has hosted the likes of Bill Gates, Bill Clinton, Michael Jordan, and Rene Russo.
The splendour of the hotel’s architecture is also reflected in its indoor and outdoor event spaces. With over 12,000 square feet of newly refurbished event space, including a 1,900-square-foot elegant ballroom, Rancho Valencia is perfectly suited to host weddings, corporate sessions, and other events. The resort’s in-house experts work with guests to curate personalised and unique weddings or events.
Room
The resort offers more than just a picture-perfect backdrop. Rancho Valencia features a collection of 49 well-appointed, all-suite casitas averaging 1,000 square feet. The interiors of these guest casitas are aesthetically pleasing, with custom furniture, vibrant décor accessories, and cosy soft furnishings.
The stays also have private terraces, fireplaces, oversized soaking tubs, steam showers, and expansive walk-in closets. The guest rooms include junior suites and one-or two-bedroom suites, each with a private garden patio or outdoor spa patio with Jacuzzis. The resort also houses residential-style accommodations for families and small groups, including the 5,000-square-foot Hacienda, The Spa House, and Casa Valencia.
Food and drink
The sprawling property offers everything to make your Southern California getaway dreamier than you could imagine. Guests at Rancho Valencia can dine at The Pony Room, poolside at Rein, or in the tastefully designed private dining venues. The Pony Room’s culinary team serves coastal ranch cuisine in a spectacular hacienda setting. I suggest grabbing an outdoor table, which offers panoramic views of the scenic natural landscape and tennis courts.
Order the signature lemon souffle pancakes, classic eggs benedict, traditional Mexican ceviche, classic Caesar salad, brussels sprouts, curry chicken wrap, the rancho burger, lobster tacos, and grilled fish tacos, and you will not be disappointed.
The Pony Room’s dishes are prepared using seasonal produce from California’s farms, fishermen, ranchers, and the property’s on-site Culinary Garden. Furthermore, the eatery’s bar houses a wide selection of locally brewed craft beers, 100 variations of tequila, high-end wines, and delectable signature cocktails.
Spa
The Spa at Rancho Valencia is encompassed by verdant greenery. This Forbes five-star rated spa houses a lap pool, private sun gardens, a plunge pool circuit, and sumptuous treatment rooms. The welcoming treatment rooms comprise private patios, deep soaking tubs and rain showers and the couples’ treatment rooms include fireplaces, private verandas, outdoor showers, and bathtubs.
The spa’s treatments include skin care, facials, and body massages, additionally, the resort’s spa also has a dedicated salon space.
Fitness centre
Situated at Rancho Valencia’s spa is also a 1,000-square-foot, open-air Serenity Yoga Pavilion where guests can participate in yoga and meditation sessions led by experienced instructors. Moreover, Rancho Valencia offers 95 complimentary fitness classes a week from certified fitness trainers. These include intense cardio and aerobic exercise sessions at its fitness centre and Pilates studio.
To do
Rancho Valencia is well-loved for its state-of-the-art tennis amenities. The resort comprises 13 beautiful plexipave championship courts, three European red clay courts, and four pickleball courts. Guests can also choose to participate in tennis clinics led by a team of United States Professional Tennis Association-certified professionals.
Visitors can also play croquet and bocce, go biking or hiking around the property, or relax at one of the pools. Rancho Valencia’s expert team also curates bespoke experiences for guests, including San Diego sightseeing excursions, paragliding sessions, hot air ballooning, and surfing lessons.
Getting there
Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa is approximately a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, 30 minutes north of downtown San Diego and a short drive from Del Mar and La Jolla.
Factbox
Rooms at Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa can be booked from £802.64 per night onwards.
Address: Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa, 5921 Valencia Cir, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067, United States of America
Phone: +1 866-233-6708
Website: ranchovalencia.com
