The Riviera Resort and Spa, located in Palm Springs, Calif., was once the exclusive desert hideaway for Hollywood elites like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammie Davis Jr., Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley. Over the years, it had eventually languished into obscurity. Since undergoing a $70 million dollar renovation and reopening its doors in 2006, “the Riv” is once again gaining star-studded attention.
Throughout the lobby, walkways and gathering areas, vivid pops of lemon yellow, deep orange, chartreuse, fuchsia and bright white colors set the mood. Andy Warhol-inspired portraits of famous clientele, oversized crystal chandeliers, vibrant light-infused pillars, handsome retro furnishings and luminescent mirror-clad walls help reinvent Hollywood’s Golden Age vibe.
All of the Riv’s 406 guestrooms and 44 spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites have marble-clad bathrooms with soaker tubs; plasma TV’s; private balconies or patios; and offer picturesque views of either the mountains or pool. Other amenities include complimentary high-speed internet in all guestrooms and suites, 24-hour computer access, in-room dining/room service, dry cleaning services and transportation services. To keep busy, the resort offers a state-of-the-art fitness center, a full-service SpaTerre and salon, two private tennis courts (equipment rentals not available), nearby championship golf, hiking through the San Jacinto Mountains and world-class shopping in Palm Springs.
The main pool, which is positioned perfectly between Bikini Bar and Circa 59 restaurant, is decked out in comfy orange lounge chairs and large white umbrellas—the ultimate in outdoor r-and-r. For a cooling drink, Bikini Bar is home to 50-plus rums and tequilas from around the world. Here, poolside mixologists—sporting tiny bikinis—prepare some of the best-tasting colorful concoctions ever created. At night, this hip hangout turns into a chic lounge with oversized futons and Trina Turk-clad servers.
For a bite to eat, Circa 59 (named for the year the resort opened) is the place to be. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, guests can dine on fare created by world-renowned Executive Chef Bradley Manchester. Menu selections include everything from short ribs over cavatelli pasta with wild mushrooms and truffle mousse to wild salmon and shrimp scampi in pepperonata with garlic chard, tomato and white wine. For dessert, savor Chef Manchester’s sticky toffee pudding. After, enjoy an outdoor night cap at Riviera’s sidebar amid a backdrop of fire pits—it’s not only gorgeous but peaceful.
