My sister and I wanted to get away for some bonding time and we selected The Bella Monte after hearing about it on the "Mark and Brian" radio show. What a great choice!

I was in the area on a job assignment. After my work was complete I booked a massage at the Bella. After all, how could one go to DHS and not. I made an appointment with the desk clerk who was very helpful in selecting the type of service and the right massage therapist. I chose the Combination which includes a deep tissue massage. Art was recommend as a good therapist (needed someone strong) and I booked a massage with Art. The massage was excellent. It was the best I have had (have had massages from physical therapists and massage therapists). The massage was relaxing as well as accomplishing the therapeutic nature I was seeking. Art was discreet, wrapping and tucking the sheet to ensure that I was comfortable. I floated out of the session and I would have booked a room right then and there if I hadn't had a very early appointment for my next assignment the next day. I will be back to take advantage of the uniqueness of the properties of the DHS water, the beautiful view, the excellent service and the hospitality.

This small spa-hotel was a great place to stay in Desert Hot Springs. It felt luxurious without losing a very comfortable, casual air. The room we stayed in opened up onto the pool and hot tub, which were filled with the local mineral water. This patio area also provided a beautiful view of Mount San Jacinto as you relaxed in the water. The room was large, with a spacious bathroom that included a jetted tub that you could also fill with mineral water. Continental breakfast was decent and there was an eclectic choice of DVD's you could borrow and watch in the room. Spa services needed to be arranged ahead of time, as they have personnel come in for treatments. It was very quiet.

We chose the Bella Monte Resort because it is small and adult only. We were not disappointed in our choice: our welcome was personal and friendly; the room had a comfortable south-western motif and was very clean. We especially appreciated the spacious bathroom, and the robes and extra towels that were provided.

We met other guests, (one world traveling couple was back for a second year) and everyone seemed to be enjoying their stay as much as we did. The Resort and pool area is very spacious, and we had all the quiet and privacy that we wanted.

We walked in the neighborhood and down to Palm Dr, saw jack rabbits and quail, found a small market on Hacienda near West (great produce!), chatted with locals and took the 15 bus back up the hill – a very fun afternoon!

I would recommend this to anyone who wants to be pampered in the desert