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Pasadena's sweeping getaway hearkens back to a golden era. Mar Yvette on
09-21-2009
This gorgeous manse is truly a royal experience. Regal flourishes range from European oil paintings to plush armchairs, immersing guests in turn-of-the-century elegance. Historically grounded on 23 rambling acres, this getaway wrapped in marble and light caters to just about every whim. The property includes three ballrooms (two are historic), a pool, L.A. County's only hotel-run restaurant with a Michelin star and 380 guest rooms, including eight cottages. Rooms feature period furnishings, ornate drapes and luxe toiletries while the property's redwood bridge is a must-see with its hand-painted murals of California life circa 1932.
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Landmark Pasadena hotel's stately formal dining room boasts rolling garden views and haute contemporary American cuisine. Contributor on
01-13-2008
In Short European decor sets an elegant Old-World tone beneath chandeliers and silk brocades, walnut paneling, framed model ships, and orchids on every starched-white table. Curtained nooks afford privacy; window tables peer out over the romantic patio and across the expansive manicured lawn and gardens. Well-heeled hotel guests and business diners enjoy chef-de-cuisine Craig Strong's tweaked contemporary American menu, with dishes such as sauteed foie gras, lemongrass scented Dungeness crab soup, rabbit loin with tapenade, roasted pheasant, poached lobster, and beef tenderloin with braised oxtail.
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This former Ritz property boasts a charming estate that harkens back to Pasadena's Golden Age. Contributor on
01-13-2008
In Short Regal flourishes like European oil paintings and plush armchairs immerse guests in turn-of-the-century riches. Historically grounded on 23 rambling acres, this palace of marble and light caters to guests' every whim. The property includes two ballroms, an Olympic-sized pool and 392 guest rooms, including eight cottages, some with fireplaces. Don't miss the redwood bridge; it features hand-painted murals of California life circa 1932.
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Spanish mission-style spa befitting the City of Roses. Contributor on
10-26-2008
The Scene The spa has a more casual vibe than the hotel and gives a nod to its Pasadena locale with a rose theme. Roses appear in stencils on antique-finished mirrors, in a large tile mosaic above the whirlpool, in wall hangings and even in vases. The effect manages to be subtle, balanced by warm-toned wood and marble. The clientele is a mix of locals from the surrounding upscale neighborhood and hotel guests.
The Services The spa specializes in energy-balancing treatments that combine reflexology and color therapy. A body mask, for example, uses algae and five colors of clay, the idea being that each color emits a particular vibration. Nice details include an abundance of beverages in waiting areas, icy eucalyptus-treated cloths next to the whirlpool and mints upon departure.
The Details Whirlpool, steam room, dry sauna, exercise equipment. Massage, body treatments, wet treatments, facials, hair removal, sunless tanning, manicure/pedicure, full-service salon, makeup application.
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