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If these walls could talk: the Culver Hotel is steeped in history

California’s hotel hotspots

VOLANTE Lola Cristall has been sampling properties out in southern California, and returns with her selection of the area’s most chic

 

 

 

Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa: taking in the atmosphere from San Diego’s Mission Bay

 


Lola Cristall is Paris editor of Lucire.

Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa

Imagine vast spaces, stunning views, hospitable staff and an utmost luxurious environment, all of which, and more, are exactly what the beautiful and recently renovated Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa provides. With highly capable management, ready to ensure the best in service, and impeccable ambiance, this sophisticated, lush resort, overlooking Mission Bay, is a must-see hotspot for relaxing. With 357 rooms and suites, a lavish fitness centre, an elegant full-service spa, a culinary escape in a stunning restaurant, and a poolside lounge, you can be assured of tranquillity.

The array of culinary delights include Acqua California Bistro, with its very west coast-style touch in a casual setting. The menu includes a soothing five spice-roasted and well seasoned butternut squash soup, a nutritious beet and goat cheese salad with a simple white balsamic vinaigrette, as well as an extensive selection of meat, fish and vegetables. For cocktail and drink enthusiasts, the Olive Lounge awaits. Whether for business or pleasure, the resort’s welcoming staff adds a touch of extra class.

 

The Culver Hotel

For a hotel with an unbelievably exciting Hollywood twist, the Culver Hotel embodies chic and high-end splendour. Since 1924, the Culver has stood out and lured a crowd of celebrities spanning Hollywood’s history, including Clark Gable, Greta Garbo, Reese Witherspoon, and John Legend. Flick back to Lucire issue 36 and it was the venue for our shoot with film-maker Leslie Zemeckis. In many cases the hotel has also served as a backdrop to many big-screen sensations. While Charlie Chaplin claimed ownership of the hotel, rumour has it that he sold it to John Wayne for a dollar in a poker game. While in 1945, Wayne became the destination’s owner, more than half a century later in 2007, Maya Mallick purchased it, bringing back the old-school sophistication that the majestic destination has been known for. In 1997, the hotel became part of the National Register of Historic Places, continuing to stand proud for its iconic and authentic vibe, reinstated within its 46 guest rooms, its welcoming dining area and beautiful outdoor space. With live jazz music, traditional afternoon tea service and a happy hour, served daily, the Culver Hotel comes to life.

 

Beverly Terrace Hotel

From traditionally historic to a more laid-back, composed and casual Los Angeles escape, the Culver Hotel’s sister property, Hotel Beverly Terrace highlights class, simplicity, design and comfort in the heart of West Hollywood. The clean-cut look, contemporary boutique feel and lavish décor within each of the 39 guest rooms leave guests yearning for more. For a fulfilling culinary experience, Café Amici has a tempting selection of cocktails, wines and dishes inspired by Italian cuisine.

 

Hotel Erwin
Hubert Newfeld

Modernist themes explored at the Hotel Erwin

Lynn Misbaugh

 

For the hip, lively and uplifting Californian lifestyle, Hotel Erwin’s fun ambiance, clean setting and style make for an escape to look forward to. Hotel Erwin, situated on the grand and acclaimed Venice Beach, has the best of both worlds, from the surrounding fresh and brisk beach breeze to the substantial possibilities of nearby shopping and dining destinations. Whether guest rooms are facing city or hypnotic ocean views, the spacious set-up and simple décor contribute to a sense of escape. The full range of amenities, easy entry to Gold’s Gym, a variety of local hair products and access to the stunning High Rooftop Lounge, the sole rooftop bar throughout Venice, make a traveller’s experience even more special. The cordial warmhearted assistance from staff provides the extra touch that guests crave.

 

Su Nido Inn
Ojai Hospitality Group, Inc.
Whitney Hartmann Photography

 

For a traditional Ojai escape, the Su Nido Inn provides a calm, serene and traditional touch to the sunny and classy Californian experience. With an antique touch, wooden beams as well as a cozy fireplace, you’ll get a welcoming feel in each of the 12 spacious suites. Surrounded by natural beauty, the splendid small city of Ojai, situated in Ventura County, northwest of Los Angeles, is a sublime escape. Rather than a traditional hotel set-up, the Su Nido Inn feels more like a welcoming family-style home, suitable for weddings, business or simply an unforgettable, pleasurable escape.

 

Kona Kai

The elegant Kona Kai Resort & Spa, located on Shelter Island, has fresh and renewed looks since our last visit. Kona Kai, managed by Noble House Hotels and Resorts, celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2019 and the renovations, as well as expansion, contributed to the festivities. A fresh So Cal breeze, tall palm trees, lush greenery, hospitable service, lavish space—all blend together for the optimum experience. For a delectable al fresco meal, the Vessel Restaurant is a hotspot to turn to, from spicy tuna tacos to a delightfully crispy skin salmon. Their pescatarian options, meat varieties, salads and sweets are perfect for the ultimate indulgence.

 

Hilton Anaheim

When reminiscing over the vast state of California, the family attraction, Disneyland, comes to mind. Hilton Anaheim, conveniently located minutes away from the much acclaimed destination, is the largest in the Anaheim Resort District, with 1,574 guest rooms, including 96 lavish suites, and 100,000 ft² of meeting space. Whether a memorable escape with the family or simply travelling solo, you can indulge in the floor-to-ceiling windows and relish its stunning views. Guests can be mesmerized with the evening fireworks, an enthralling weather-permitting activity. Decadent dining options are available on the premises, including the Mix Lounge for a drink as well as delightful appetizers, and Mix Restaurant, offering fresh and organic meals.

 

AC Hotel by Marriott Beverly Hills

As the first AC Hotel in the Los Angeles area, thisl is a contemporary, minimalist and modern destination with 142 rooms. Just steps away from “the Fifth Avenue of California”, Rodeo Drive, guests may choose to indulge in the ideal shopping spree or fully appreciate the infinite city views observed from the comfort of the hotel. Along with panoramic views at the AC Rooftop Lounge, a range of European-inspired cuisine and small plates are also available. For those intent on following one’s daily workout regimen, the hotel offers direct access to a fitness room. •

 

 

 



 

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