My husband and I usually head north from LA for our weekend getaways, fearing the heat and intense sun of the desert. Just for a change, and because other reviews sounded so appealing, we opted for Sagewater Spa, and we couldn't have had a more wonderful time. (This, despite unseasonable weather -- it was 108 the mid-May weekend we were there. But honestly... it really was dry heat.)

The coffeecake, the Brazilian cocktails, those amazing mineral baths; the indulgence of a late-afternoon massage; the genuine hospitality of Cris and Rhoni, who make you feel like old friends who have stopped by for a visit -- truly, we know we'll be returning.

The only thing I would do differently is skip the drive to Palm Springs for dinner. Get something for the grill at the local market or nearby Trader Joe's.and throw together a little salad and some appetizers, and you never have to leave paradise.

My friend and I stayed at the Sagewater in March to get some sunshine and relaxation. We had the time of our lives! The Spa is beautiful and relaxing. Cris and Rhoni, the owners, are very welcoming and went out of their way to make our stay very special. The rooms are very well-done, with tasteful decoration. We cooked the whole weekend in our kitchenette. I relaxed in the hot springs pool any chance I could get during our stay because the water was so relaxing. All my stress melted away. Both my friend and I got massages during our stay and it was the best massage of my life. I have never felt so relaxed in all my life. Really.
I can't recommend this spa enough. It was wonderful and I can't wait to come back.

With the understanding that "not one size fits all", I want to share the experience my wife and I had this past holiday weekend at Sagewater Spa. Because it occupies a special niche, and does it wonderfully, you need to know about Sagewater.

7 rooms located out in open desert scrub, Sagewater Spa combines a clean, austere desert aesthetic; the softest, elegant linens we have ever seen; warm and hot mineral baths that sooth like an elixer, and the warmest, accepting hospitality you will find anywhere. If you are looking for extravagance, showbiz glamour, or activities to preoccupy you, Sagewater is not your place. But if you want an informal place to utterly relax, feel no pressure to conform or behave, and rejuvination for a parched soul, Sagewater Spa could become your new home away from home. The resident owner, Cristina Pestana, will make you quickly feel welcome and pampered.

My husband and I picked the Sagewater Spa for a long weekend retreat and we couldn't have chosen a better place. From the moment you walk through the door, it is a serene, peaceful, calming experience. Cris & Rhoni are very friendly and welcoming.

The 8 rooms are comfortable and each has a small, furnished kitchenette, but why would you want to spend much time in your room when the pool beckons? The water's minerals are refreshing but not odorous (like some hot springs) and the temperature was always just right.

Desert Hot Springs is close enough to enjoy Palm Springs but far enough away to enjoy the desert quiet.