TWO BUNCH PALMS: A CLASSIC, TIMELESS RETREAT |
Soaking in a warm mineral hot spring in Desert Springs, California surrounded by stonework and stained glass beneath a canopy of palm trees, one’s sense of time and the outside world quickly evaporates. It’s possible to spend an entire stay at Two Bunch Palms in one of their plush terrycloth robes, and the resort’s low-key ambiance, wonderfully therapeutic hot springs and extensive massage and therapy options are what have attracted the rich and famous, as well as those not so much, for generations. Although Native Americans have long enjoyed the springs, the resort had its origins with Al Capone, who built the original structures as a retreat, casino and hideout in the ‘30s. An inviting stone “grotto” was built around the hot springs, shaded by palms and enabling guests to soak in blissful solitude, and it became a haven for Hollywood types seeking an escape from nearby LA. The Capone era lasted only a few years, as the authorities eventually caught up to him, and the resort opened to the public. Although it now features modern, well-appointed lodging options, its period charm is largely unchanged. Currently, the resort is seeking new ownership to maintain its traditional ambiance. Lodging and Dining Spread out over Two Bunch Palms’ lush grounds and linked by stone walkways are accommodations from single and two-bedroom suites with private patios to a house overlooking the resort. The Al Capone Suite offers a distinctive period setting of stonework, stained glass and vintage furnishings. The Casino Restaurant provides breathtaking views from its intimate dining room and patio, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Breakfasts range from light to sumptuous; lunch can include their famous gazpacho and/or a gourmet salad, sandwich or entree. On weekend afternoons, tapas such as baked brie with roasted garlic are served. Dinners such as rack of lamb or Pasta Puttanesca are accompanied by a thoughtful wine list. Dress is casual… dining in one’s robe is encouraged. Many Options for Rejuvenation Two Bunch Palms is about enhancing wellness and rejuvenating the body. An internationally recognized spa caters to guests with many massage and therapy options (some inspired by Native American practices) as well as unique offerings, such as private warm Watsu pools that augment gentle Shiatsu or Reflexology. Massages, from Shiatsu and Deep Tissue to Ayurvedic and Hot-Stone treatments, are available to soothe the body. Many facials are also provided, from classic Enzyme and Sun Lovers to Bee Propolis, Ayurvedic, Glycolic Paraffin treatments, and Deep Pore Cleansing. Or choose a rejuvenating body treatment, such as their popular Salt Glow (a warm mineral-water rinse and gentle Epsom salt scrub followed by a sauna, refreshing liniment rubdown and light reflexology). Well-being is enhanced by skilled practitioners in Lymphatic Massage, Cranial-Sacral Therapy, Reiki and a Healing Earth Treatment including a sand scrub, anointing and massage with desert herbs. Healing mineral-water therapies include Aqua Soma, Water Shiatsu and a gentle, stretching Water Dance. For couples, an intimate Roman Tub Relaxation follows a personalized massage with a private, candle-lit bath with Epsom salt and lavender oil. Mud baths are also available, as well as a full range of manicures and pedicures. Things To Do…Or Not For the activity-minded, Two Bunch Palms offers tennis, swimming, cycling and daily yoga classes. But its magic is best experienced floating in the hot springs grotto, the heart and soul of the resort. With solitude maintained by a no-cell-phones policy and signs gently reminding patrons to whisper, time stands still. With all that Two Bunch Palms has to offer, perhaps the most indulgent pastime is to master the art of doing nothing. If You Go: Two Bunch Palms Resort & Spa
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