Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort
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Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort
288 E Camino Monte Vista, Palm Springs, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92262-4711
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Avg. AU$705 /night, 2/17 - 2/18
AU$721
per night
AU$671
per night
AU$620
per night
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About
#1 of 9 special hotels in Palm Springs
Location
Rooms
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Descanso Resort offers gay men a relaxing boutique hotel experience just minutes away from Palm Springs’ buzziest restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping. Beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites feature deluxe King beds, modern baths with walk-in showers, blazing fast WiFi, and many special touches. At the center of the resort’s verdant courtyard, guests enjoy a sparkling swimsuit-optional pool and spa, a mist-cooling system, an outdoor shower, and stunning views of Coachella Valley’s iconic San Jacinto mountains. Every stay includes complimentary continental breakfast and poolside lunch. Inspired by Palm Springs’ history as a destination for Hollywood stars to vacation in privacy, Descanso has quickly established itself as a top-rated resort for sophisticated gay travelers to unwind, relax, and rest. Setting a new standard in Palm Springs, Descanso is part of a distinguished trio of resorts for gay men that includes Santiago Resort and Twin Palms Resort.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Hot bath
Free breakfast
Bicycles available
Hiking
Adults only
Baggage storage
Electric vehicle charging station
Street parking
Pool with view
Swimming pool toys
Adult pool
Breakfast buffet
Special diet menus
Concierge
Executive lounge access
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
Sun umbrellas
First aid kit
Umbrella
Room features
Blackout curtains
Bathrobes
Air conditioning
Desk
Housekeeping
Refrigerator
Cable / satellite TV
Walk-in shower
Safe
Seating area
Sofa
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Bottled water
Clothes rack
Iron
Private bathrooms
Tile / marble floor
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Flatscreen TV
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Mountain view
Pool view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
HOTEL STYLE
Modern
Business
Languages Spoken
English, Spanish
Hotel links
Location
Getting there
Somewhat walkable
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 58 out of 100
58
Palm Springs Municipal Airport
4 km•
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Rental Cars
35 Restaurants
within 1 kilometer
Reviews
5.0
199 reviews
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Reviews summary
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
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Descanso Resort, celebrated for its exclusivity to gay men, garners high praise for its pristine and spacious accommodations, with many guests appreciating the stylish and relaxing atmosphere. The resort's thoughtful amenities, including complimentary meals and poolside treats like happy hours and frozen fruit bars, are often highlighted as key features, contributing to its excellent value.
The attentive service provided by the exceptional staff, coupled with the resort's convenient location close to local attractions, ensures a memorable and comfortable stay for guests.
Location
Convenient
Atmosphere
Stylish
Rooms
Spacious
Value
Remarkable
Cleanliness
Immaculate
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Top-notch
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Detailed Reviews
Our stay at the Descanso was incredible! It was our first time, and I really didn't know what to expect but I’d heard great things. Something that struck us as we walked into the resort was the beautiful design, how private it felt, and how clean it was. The pool deck and all the grounds were Immaculate and very inviting. Even the pool loungers were premium and so comfortable, it was hard not to nap. Our room was on the second floor and had a beautiful layout with nice bedding and toiletries. A unique feature was a live fiddle fig plant right in our room, a perfect homey touch. It was our anniversary and there was a card along with some treats and a candle waiting for us in our room when we arrived. That was a really nice gesture, and we felt instantly welcomed. One of the things that we liked about the Descanso so much was the fact that we didn't need to think of anything! Everything was provided from a wonderful breakfast, great sandwiches and salads at lunch, and a stocked cantina with soft drinks/coffee. I would also like to add my thanks to Bob in the cantina for his cheery and efficient service every morning. I also loved how he has reusable silicone wraps for the butter and jam, so plastic waste is reduced.
If you need anything there is a way to text the resort (for your lunch order or with any questions/requested. Every time I texted, I got such a swift response and that was really appreciated. We arrived late on Saturday night after the front desk was closed, but directions were sent in advance on how to access the self-service check in along with our welcome packet. All of that worked flawlessly.
This resort is very conveniently located and does offer free parking, though we didn't have a car with us. We were able to walk to a great sushi restaurant called Sandfish which was right around the corner. You can easily walk to downtown in about 30 minutes if it’s not too hot. Otherwise, a very quick Uber/Lyft will get you there in no time. The staff also compiles a list of all the restaurants that they recommend in the area and that they send out in advance and that was very helpful. My only note that might be helpful to some travelers is that when we were at Descanso, it was very quiet and very chill, a perfect place to relax. If you are looking to be more social, while still relaxing, their sister property the Santiago (where we stayed after our three nights at the Descanso) would be a great choice. One other thing, the hot tub was way too hot – my watch said the water was 107 degrees (a couple of different times) and it was just too hot to sit in for most. Friends who stayed after us noted the same thing. Hopefully an easy fix!
Overall, this was a wonderful stay, and I would not hesitate to come back here anytime.
P.S. This is an upscale, clothing optional resort, and you will see people naked. There is no pressure or expectation to be nude, and some guests were not, but if this would bother you, definitely book elsewhere.
If you need anything there is a way to text the resort (for your lunch order or with any questions/requested. Every time I texted, I got such a swift response and that was really appreciated. We arrived late on Saturday night after the front desk was closed, but directions were sent in advance on how to access the self-service check in along with our welcome packet. All of that worked flawlessly.
This resort is very conveniently located and does offer free parking, though we didn't have a car with us. We were able to walk to a great sushi restaurant called Sandfish which was right around the corner. You can easily walk to downtown in about 30 minutes if it’s not too hot. Otherwise, a very quick Uber/Lyft will get you there in no time. The staff also compiles a list of all the restaurants that they recommend in the area and that they send out in advance and that was very helpful. My only note that might be helpful to some travelers is that when we were at Descanso, it was very quiet and very chill, a perfect place to relax. If you are looking to be more social, while still relaxing, their sister property the Santiago (where we stayed after our three nights at the Descanso) would be a great choice. One other thing, the hot tub was way too hot – my watch said the water was 107 degrees (a couple of different times) and it was just too hot to sit in for most. Friends who stayed after us noted the same thing. Hopefully an easy fix!
Overall, this was a wonderful stay, and I would not hesitate to come back here anytime.
P.S. This is an upscale, clothing optional resort, and you will see people naked. There is no pressure or expectation to be nude, and some guests were not, but if this would bother you, definitely book elsewhere.
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Date of stay: November 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:Â Second floor rooms may be a little quieter as the floor squeaks a little.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Property's Favourite Review
Our ultimate goal in recent visits to Palm Springs includes our desire to stay at each of the trio of resorts, of which one is Descanso. Our last visit was to sister property Twin Palms, which was absolutely delightful (the third is Santiago). This time at Descanso, we felt right at home with a very familiar and positively predictive operating model, but with a slightly different vibe. Many of the other guests staying were repeat visitors to Descanso and all of them noted the unique personalities of each property in the family. Descanso is small enough to offer a comfortable, home-like feel with the type of guests that you wouldn't mind having in your own home. It's as private as you want it to be, certainly quiet and definitely relaxing.
We booked a balcony deluxe suite (Room 25), which offered us ample room, a huge ensuite bath with separate shower and tub and a nice separate seating area outside the bedroom. Like the sister properties, a fresh continental breakfast is offered, plus a poolside lunch daily. We were surprised each late afternoon, when wine was offered poolside.
When you stay for a week or more, it's fun to watch and meet the various guests that arrive. There were people from all over the world visiting, all of them pretty friendly.
The staff works very hard to make sure that everything is "just so." They were constantly circulating the pool deck and property to pick up every speck of trash and ensure there were ample towels for the pool and spa guests. The room was kept equally as spotless and comfortable. Kudos to Charles and Maxwell for their fine and friendly management!
We've been visiting Palm Springs for years and we're happy we have found some additional high-quality options for impeccable resort life! While our next visit will be to Santiago to top off our trio, we will definitely return to Descanso in the future and have already begun recommending it to friends.
We booked a balcony deluxe suite (Room 25), which offered us ample room, a huge ensuite bath with separate shower and tub and a nice separate seating area outside the bedroom. Like the sister properties, a fresh continental breakfast is offered, plus a poolside lunch daily. We were surprised each late afternoon, when wine was offered poolside.
When you stay for a week or more, it's fun to watch and meet the various guests that arrive. There were people from all over the world visiting, all of them pretty friendly.
The staff works very hard to make sure that everything is "just so." They were constantly circulating the pool deck and property to pick up every speck of trash and ensure there were ample towels for the pool and spa guests. The room was kept equally as spotless and comfortable. Kudos to Charles and Maxwell for their fine and friendly management!
We've been visiting Palm Springs for years and we're happy we have found some additional high-quality options for impeccable resort life! While our next visit will be to Santiago to top off our trio, we will definitely return to Descanso in the future and have already begun recommending it to friends.
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Date of stay: March 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Charles Zalepeski, General Manager at Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort
Responded 11 Apr 2024
Thank you for the amazing review and the recommendations! We look forward to welcoming you back, and all of your friends!!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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We booked the larger suite and it was like living in a mid-century modern Palm Springs apartment. The location was convenient and we were always able to find a parking place or nearby street parking. The pool was always warm and the jacuzzi so relaxing. The staff, cleaning, front desk and breakfast bar, were all exceptional.
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Date of stay: January 2025Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Descanso is simply the best resort I have ever stayed in. It has a wonderfully calm, relaxed atmosphere throughout, the rooms are large and very stylish, breakfast and lunch are both included in the rate, there is a 'cantina' containing a constant supply of drinks and snacks, and there are regular poolside happy hours, along with breakfast mimosas at the weekends. The staff genuinely could not be more helpful and friendly - Charles is a tremendous manager and his team attend to every detail. Incredibly, Descanso is also tremendous value. I genuinely cannot wait to return. It's a special place.
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Date of stay: August 2024Trip type: Travelled with friends
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
From the time we arrived, the service and attention to detail was fantastic. Very friendly and welcoming staff. The property and rooms are very well kept. The poolside ambiance is very relaxing. A very generous breakfast and lunch are included each day of your stay, with a little wine happy hour in the evening. Would definitely come back!
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Date of stay: December 2024Trip type: Travelled with friends
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:Â The property is about 1 mile from the center of downtown Palm Springs, so if you don't have a...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What a wonderful resort in Palm Springs we found based on a friend's strong recommendation. This is one of the cleanest resorts I've ever stayed at. The staff (Kent, Maxwell and all) were incredibly welcoming and friendly. The rooms were very large and our suite had a separately living room and enormous bathroom with large soaking tub (+ shower). The included daily breakfast was so nice and the complementary lunch was a bonus we hadn't expected. Oh, and the weekend wine in the evenings - again totally unexpected. Definitely enjoyed ourselves and will visit again.
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Date of stay: December 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Kent Taylor, General Manager at Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort
Responded 10 Jan 2024
The deluxe Balcony suite is one of the guests favorite rooms! So happy you loved it! We hope to see you back soon.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kent, the manager, was extremely helpful and friendly and the resort is very clean and comfortable. Pool towels are available everywhere and the canteen is well stocked with many complimentary items. I would highly recommend this resort!
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Date of stay: December 2023Trip type: Travelled with friends
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Kent Taylor, General Manager at Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort
Responded 10 Jan 2024
Thank you for your recommendation, it means so much!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Descanso exceeded all my expectations. The rooms were immaculate - minimalist, modern, and comfortable. Kent, Holden, and their team were consummate hosts, always attentive and busy maintaining the cleanliness of the common areas, ensuring guests had whatever they needed to enjoy the lovely pool - providing refreshing mint towels and popsicles in the afternoon heat. With breakfast and lunch included, Descanso is the perfect place to unwind and relax in Palm Springs.
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Date of stay: June 2022
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Kent Taylor, General Manager at Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort
Responded 16 June 2022
It was so great having you come and visit! Please come back soon, we will be waiting.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I had the pleasure of spending 3 nights at Descanso in early November 2022.
This resort has been totally renovated and is one of the nicest places I have stayed at in years.
Rooms are bright; wide open with a VERY comfortable bed, The bathroom and large shower is spotless and squeaky-clean.
The pool is large and quite warm, along with a nice hot-tub/spa which is also kept spotlessly clean.
One of the most impressive features of the resort is the caring attitude of the owners and staff. Everybody is pleasant and sociable.
Descanso is located in the northern section of Palm Springs, just north of the Medical Center, and about a 25 minute walk to downtown PS and the Arenas district. However, there are several restaurant and bars quite nearby. ,and it's a 10 minute walk to Toucans Bar.
Another big bonus for staying at Descanso is the breakfast service. Plenty of healthy options to get your day going and it is delivered right to your table outside..Lunch service is also available.
If you are looking for a quiet relaxing place to spend a few days and enjoy a clean friendly environment Descanso is the place to be. I wish I could have stayed longer, but 3 nights was all I could get, so I strongly recommend your make reservations well in advance!
I will definitely be back in the spring!! It is now my #1 place to stay in Palm Springs
This resort has been totally renovated and is one of the nicest places I have stayed at in years.
Rooms are bright; wide open with a VERY comfortable bed, The bathroom and large shower is spotless and squeaky-clean.
The pool is large and quite warm, along with a nice hot-tub/spa which is also kept spotlessly clean.
One of the most impressive features of the resort is the caring attitude of the owners and staff. Everybody is pleasant and sociable.
Descanso is located in the northern section of Palm Springs, just north of the Medical Center, and about a 25 minute walk to downtown PS and the Arenas district. However, there are several restaurant and bars quite nearby. ,and it's a 10 minute walk to Toucans Bar.
Another big bonus for staying at Descanso is the breakfast service. Plenty of healthy options to get your day going and it is delivered right to your table outside..Lunch service is also available.
If you are looking for a quiet relaxing place to spend a few days and enjoy a clean friendly environment Descanso is the place to be. I wish I could have stayed longer, but 3 nights was all I could get, so I strongly recommend your make reservations well in advance!
I will definitely be back in the spring!! It is now my #1 place to stay in Palm Springs
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Date of stay: November 2022
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip:Â Second floor rooms have nice view of pool.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Kent Taylor, General Manager at Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort
Responded 18 Nov 2022
Thank you for this amazing review, so happy you guys enjoyed your visit! We can't wait to see you back this Spring.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Great ambience, great service, great amenities, and great location. Kent is the best. That said, if you are a light sleeper and sensitive to impact noise, do not book this place unless they have a balcony (top floor) room available.
I made the mistake of booking a pool side (ground floor unit) and i got the worst sleep, you can hear every step, every item dropped and every other thing going on in the upstairs unit. The complimentary ear buds did nothing. It really ruined my last visit, I left tired and sleep deprived. That said, if you this doesn't bother you at all, or if you get a balcony unit, you will be very pleased!!!
I made the mistake of booking a pool side (ground floor unit) and i got the worst sleep, you can hear every step, every item dropped and every other thing going on in the upstairs unit. The complimentary ear buds did nothing. It really ruined my last visit, I left tired and sleep deprived. That said, if you this doesn't bother you at all, or if you get a balcony unit, you will be very pleased!!!
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Date of stay: December 2023Trip type: Travelled solo
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip:Â I think the best time to go is the summer, since you can enjoy lounging by the pool at midnight...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Kent Taylor, General Manager at Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort
Responded 10 Jan 2024
So sorry that another guest kept you awake. Even though the rooms do have soundproofing in the floors and walls, sometimes it may not be enough if the guest next to you forgets that they are not the only person in the hotel. Next time, for sure we will get you situated in a beautiful balcony room with a mountain view!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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"The property is about 1 mile from the center of downtown Palm Springs, so if you don't have a car, consider walking or using a bike."Read full review
"I went on Sunday through Wednesday, so it could be a little more busy on Thursday through Saturday."Read full review
"Rooms 21 and 28 (on the ends of the buildings) don't have traffic outside the windows, so privacy is great. "Read full review
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PRICE RANGE
AU$438 - AU$648 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
east canyon hotel palm springs
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
East Canyon Hotel and Spa
LOCATION
United StatesCaliforniaCalifornia DesertGreater Palm SpringsPalm Springs
NUMBER OF ROOMS
16
Prices are provided by our partners for one room, with variable occupancy rules as provided by the property, and reflect total costs of the stay, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
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Claim Your ListingDESCANSO RESORT - A GAY MEN'S RESORT - 2025 Prices & Reviews (Palm Springs, CA) - Photos of Specialty Hotel - Tripadvisor
Frequently Asked Questions about Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort
Which popular attractions are close to Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort?
Nearby attractions include MOGO Silent Disco (0.6 km), PS Drag Brunch (0.5 km), and Ruth Hardy Park (1.1 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and free parking.
Which room amenities are available at Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort?
Top room amenities include air conditioning, a flat screen TV, and a refrigerator.
What food & drink options are available at Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast during their stay.
Is parking available at Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort?
Yes, free parking and street parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort?
Conveniently located restaurants include EIGHT4NINE Restaurant & Lounge, Copleys On Palm Canyon, and Rick's Restaurant & Bakery.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort?
Yes, guests have access to an adult pool during their stay.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Spanish.
Are there any historical sites close to Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Village Green Heritage Center (2.3 km), McCallum Adobe (2.4 km), and Our Lady of Solitude Church (1.3 km).
Does Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the mountain view available here.
Is Descanso Resort - A Gay Men's Resort accessible?
Yes, it offers reduced mobility rooms. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.