Charming hotel and suites set against the foot of the Santa Rosa mountains which hearkens back to the mid-century glory of Palm Springs. They have several exquisite, professional-level tennis courts, beautifully landscaped grounds in a part of town which is perfectly quiet, yet walking-distance* to downtown shops and restaurants. Suites were well-appointed with convenient access; pools and grounds are super-clean.

The lovely old-world Tennis Club District is just what we appreciate about Palm Springs: Mid-century and Spanish Revival architecture with lush landscaping, peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, little traffic but very convenient to downtown Palm Springs. This is by far the best part of Palm Springs to stay in for beauty, accessibility, quiet, dining, and value.

You might enjoy the "suites" more than rooms in the main hotel, since you are staying on the adjacent grounds with multiple pools and spas. These rooms come in varying sizes, but most have well-stocked kitchenettes. The upgrade can be as little as $10 more than the hotel rooms, but worth much more. The main hotel does have access to free parking in the building out of the sun, and is closer to their on-site restaurant; but the suites may be more pleasing to your party overall.

Note that the suites are very close together, almost two arms apart; it's generally quiet but has a crowded feel. One huge negative for our stay: When we were checking in we heard a tremendous racket from across the street - screaming that sounded like a football game - we thought there was a fight going on - and when we finally got our room and walked over, we saw why: a family of about 20 people had taken over the family pool and weren't capable of speaking, only screaming. This went on for several hours until "quiet time". I didn't feel comfortable using the facility and I saw nobody else was, either. At least our room wasn't near this area, and I'm sure the people trying to have a quiet weekend were miserable. The large spa had 10 people crammed into it, so that wasn't an option. There was an empty spa tucked around the corner, empty and beautifully landscaped, so I was able to enjoy that one in relative peace (I could still hear the screaming echoing around the place.)

Some reviewers noted a rude staff, and I must say when I walked in, they all looked up with sour expressions and "oh no, I have to help someone" written all over their faces. I didn't get a welcoming vibe at all. Later though when the room was ready (not until 4 pm), the fellow helping us was relaxed and charming, but I wouldn't say 100% of the staff is 100% friendly.

I will for sure try them again, but I'll be more picky about where they put us (closer to the pool, not right on the farthest corner facing the street; our patio had cars going by.)

If you're a tennis fanatic, though, you already know about this place with its world-class courts, and you may already be familiar with the "adult pool" set right against the rocky mountainside with lush landscaping. Great place to hang out.

I actually upgraded this back up to 4 stars from 3 (based on the staff doing nothing about the noise level.) I realized later this was probably a fluke. I'd say 3.5 is more accurate, depending on your expectations - you could do a lot worse in Palm Springs; just don't expect a trendy crowd in this area.

*Downtown is walking distance for someone who is fit, not disabled, and not when it's over 80 degrees. Your best bet is driving, there is plenty of free parking one block west of the main drag.