We had checked in with a security guard before entering the property, and of course he relayed our names to the valet desk. When we pulled up, we were greeted by name and told to leave the car where it was so we could check in to the only Relais and Chateaux property in Southern California. We entered a hushed, beautiful lobby area and were greeted by a young man I have, alas, forgotten his name who was as professional as can be.
When we was taking down our information, the phone rang. Would you mind terribly if I put you on hold for just a moment? Thank you so much. And there were a million little things to notice about the resort. Our casita, number , had a massive bathroom with a shower big enough for the starting infield of the Toronto Blue Jays and a lovely soaker tub. There was a small wooden try next to the tub with soap and other amenities; all neatly arranged.
In one corner of the living room was a lovely set of tall vases, perfectly lined up. There were two deep orange cushions on the sofa, and a beautiful, miniature, old-style suitcase on the end table in a suite that was around 1, square feet pretty much the average for their 49 casita units. A casita at Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa. Our casita had wood floors and a pretty, blue-grey rug in the bedroom area with calm, wavy lines.
They even bring fresh orange juice to your room in the morning and leave it outside your door in a wooden box. Our room had a lovely fireplace framed by Spanish tiles, a walk-in closet in the bathroom, double sinks in the bathroom, an espresso machine, a wet bar and a mini-fridge with free snacks and free soft drinks and juice. The resort also has some fine, high-tech touches. Our toilet seat was warmed, and the lid rose up automatically when we walked into the room.
We had one of the few rooms that has a special bed that can be programmed for temperature and even firmness. High-tech is great, but to me one of the best things about the property is the natural surroundings.
