As a former travel writer, I've been aware of the Willows for two decades, but previously had to satisfy myself with touring the property (contrary to popular misconceptions, travel journalism pay doesn't come close to covering a five-star experience like this!) Looking for a New Year's getaway this year, I finally realized hubby and I had finally "grown up" enough for this pampering treat, so we rang in 2012 poolside in delightful 80+ degree temps, and I'm now a devoted Willows guest as well as discerning fan.

Please read all the reviews that preceed mine: as a professional, I can assure you my fellow guests have done a great job of describing the detail and nuance of a stay here, far more than can be listed in one single review. A word that frequently comes up is "gem," and it is very apt! Many don't know this place exists, hidden in plain sight steps from the bustling heart of Palm Springs. You can easily walk into town for any entertainment your heart desires, or walk the other way to escape into a scenic 2-hour mountain hike that feels miles from civilization.

Another word you'll see is "pricey," and I will admit it is. Until you stay, it can be difficult to imagine what kind of experience warrants a $300-$600 per night price tag, but notice how not a single reviewer came away regretting the expenditure, myself included! The privacy, comfort, service, and extra amenities are without peer, and well worth the prices. It's not easy to make guests of all stripes feel comfortable being treated like royalty while padding about in swimsuits and bathrobes, but the staff here achieves that remarkable balance. Ditto the oft-cited three-course breakfast, which is simultaneously elegant (savory bread puddings and caviar-topped souffles) yet elemental (fresh fruit, yogurt, and simple baked goods). You'll hear the menu beforehand and can choose whether to go healthy or hedonistic, or somewhere in between -- including custom requests for plain eggs and toast, if that better suits you.

I personally enjoyed the 24-hour hot tub and pool (heated during winter), since I love a first-thing-in-the-morning soak without having to wait for the water to warm up. There are plush and absorbant bamboo-blend towels (generously sized, to boot) poolside and in the bathrooms, and no extra fees for anything on the property, which is as it should be! The evening hors d'ouevres are so generous, creative, and delicious, I feel a tad picky remarking the wine service could be improved by refining the presentation: One evening I was simply told my options were "red or white," although subsequent inquiry revealed a very nice choice among 5 or 6 varietals. And glasses were consistently overfilled...wine should never be poured to the brim like water!

Any small complaints were totally balanced on our departure, when the proprietors -- to our surprise -- presented us with a gift certificate for a future night's stay as compensation for a small inconvenience during our weekend. The issue was so minor and efficiently resolved by staff, it would never have influenced my overall assessment -- but how classy is that response? It's that level of professionalism and devotion to hospitality that truly sets the Willows apart.

My husband and I spent a few days at the Willows, and were awed by the hospitality, the lovely gourmet breakfasts, the beautiful, well-appointed accommodations, and the atmosphere. It's comfortable, it's beautiful, it's in a perfect location, private, but close to things we wanted to see and do (next to the Museum, a lovely place to spend some time, and only a couple of blocks from the shops and restaurants). There was no pressure, so we could relax and take it easy, and Harmony and Gordon always wanted to help us and provide excellent service with great style. So much more than we could have expected. It was lovely, and we will most certainly do it again!

It never crossed my mind to visit Palm Springs, BUT when I saw the pictures of this beautiful property I had to make every excuse to come visit! Early Christmas getaway GIFT for my husband and I!!

From the very moment we arrived, I was in awe! I drove up to the gated property unsure of how to get in. I called Gordon, the host, and he opened the gate and greeted us. He helped us with the bags up the stairs. I was looking in my purse for the confirmation letter or my credit card and Gordon says, "No need for that, we have your information." AWESOME!! I don't like all that check-in stuff. It feels like a hotel! All the payment stuff was taken cared of prior to my visit, so Gordon made it feel like a vacation the very minute we got there!

Anyhow, the property is even more beautiful in person. We stayed in the loft which on the second floor in the main house. My husband and I snacked on the dried fruits and the beverages that were stocked in our rooms. The bed was so comfortable! It was the best sleep I've had in a long time. In the morning we could see and hear the running waterfall from the window in our room. The 3 course breakfast in front of the waterfall was breathtaking and the food was great. I loved the little pathway you can hike up to the O Donnel House. We met other house guests and we all enjoyed an afternoon of h'orderves and wine together provided by the staff. The Willows is so close (2 blocks) to the downtown strip that we didn't even need to drive anywhere! Overall, the staff, food, and location top notch! Also, the property is well kept (absolutely jaw dropping beautiful) and the rooms are clean.
This is one of the most relaxing and memorable vacations for my husband and I! We loved the whole experience! Definitely going back and sending my parents for their anniversary!

The only downside is that this place is a bit pricey, but after having stayed here- I CAN'T IMAGINE STAYING ANYWHERE ELSE!

Take away the "excellent service"...take away the "beautiful grounds"...take away the "individuality" of the very clean rooms...take away the "scrumptious" breakfast in the best of settings ...take away the "very social" early evening time with wine and delicious hors d'oeurves and what do you have? We think the best place we have visited. After a couple of hours visiting the shops (just 2 blocks away), we easily decided our time was best spent on the grounds of this wonderful place. Take advantage of the trails behind the inn and enjoy the views at the many different sitting areas. The Willows does not disappoint.