Take advantage of mild climates, smaller crowds and local charms at these autumn-friendly weekend getaways.
Where: Solvang
The Landsby
1576 Mission Drive; 805-688-3121, thelandsby.com
Why We Love It: The modern, Scandinavian-style hotel in bucolic Solvang (founded in 1911 by three Danish pioneers), is equipped with an on-site eatery, Mad & Vin (“food and wine” in Danish) headed up by Chef Beto Huizar and a lobby bar. Outfitted by Santa Monica–based design firm Studio Collective, the serene refuge is dotted with fluffy, flokati throws, charcoal-hued wooden headboards, brass task lamps, Eames-style molded desk chairs and black-and-white graphic prints.
What’s New: The property has just debuted nine additional guest suites (bringing the grand total to 50 rooms), and upgraded the interior courtyard.
Don’t Miss: Swap the day’s news in the hotel’s light-and-airy lobby, or grab a glass of local wine and retreat to the outdoor courtyard lined with modern fire pits and lounge chairs.
Where: Yosemite National Park
Majestic Yosemite Hotel
1 Ahwahnee Drive; 888-413-8869, nationalparkreservations.com
Why We Love It: This historic, granite-and-log hotel (formerly the lauded Ahwahnee Hotel) is located smack dab in Yosemite National Park with direct access to hiking trails including Half Dome, Yosemite Falls and El Capitan. Built in 1927, the 123-room hotel is a National Historic Monument and has welcomed a long line of notable guests and dignitaries including Dwight D. Eisenhower, Queen Elizabeth II, Greta Garbo, Ansel Adams and John F. Kennedy.
What’s New: Yosemite Valley has a host of fall activities ranging from camera walks and “bike to hike” tours to guided adventure hikes to Vernal Falls. And not to mention those fall colors!
Don’t Miss: Dinner in the Majestic Yosemite Dining Room with 34-foot-high-beamed ceilings and cathedral framing the surrounding conifer trees and woods. You might just feel like royalty.
Where: Palm Springs
L’Horizon Palm Springs
1050 East Palm Canyon Drive; 760-323-1858, lhorizonpalmsprings.com
Why We Love It: One of the new kids on the block, this glamorous 1950’s gem once served as a playground for Hollywood A-Listers and U.S. presidents alike. Thanks to the unique design esthetic of renowned designer Steve Hermann, the renovated resort is better than ever. Oh, and it’s 18 and older only … so leaved the little ones at home.
What’s New: Combining the stunning mountain views with L’Horizon’s mid-century heritage, The Spa is a blend of relaxed elegance, with its white canvas cabanas, serene indoor-outdoor setting and private outdoor showers. The Spa features four treatment rooms and a relaxing outdoor space. Indulge in massages, facials and body treatments, aromatherapy and fresh juice bar.
Don’t Miss: Dramatic, refined, and intimate, SO•PA offers a unique alfresco dining experience on property. Enjoy a table for two or dine family style at the 26’ live edge walnut communal table. Making new friends encouraged.
