The 20-room Sparrows hotel in Palm Springs feels delightfully un-retro but owner Doug Smith says it is a throwback to another time “It’s like you’re staying in an old family camp in the desert 60 years ago.” Similar to the architecture at famed Smoke Tree Ranch, a historic enclave of private homes and cottages, the former Red Barn Hotel was a celebrity hangout in the 1950’s, but fell into disrepair over the years. Smith and his wife Josie, the globe-trotting former owners of the beloved Korakia Pensione, stripped down the original ranch-style structure exposing the all red-wood walls and vaulted ceilings.
They’ve kept the courtyard setting and 45 ft. long pool but guest rooms have been given a major upgrade including hand-made red wood beds, horse trough bathtubs and private bougainvillea adorned patios. The property’s original post and beam barn still stands and has been turned into a chic open common area for guests with sliding barn doors, a bar and small kitchen turning out simple breakfast items and hopefully soon more substantial fare like huevos rancheros and strawberry pancakes.
My husband and I stayed here recently and we loved the jacuzzi next to the outdoor fire pit, where we enjoyed crisp glasses of white wine at sunset, as well as the tranquility of the property and the attentive, friendly staff. The Sparrows also has bikes for guests, horseshoe and they’re going to have pop-up sales in the front parking lot on weekends where you may be able to score furniture, Goyard bays and vintage jewelry. It really is summer camp for adults as scene through the eyes of a glamorous pair.
1330 E. Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, CA 92264
(760) 327 -2300
From $150 with breakfast included