Desert chic style at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage
The Greater Palm Springs area offers no shortage of options when it comes to rest and relaxation but The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage stand outs thanks to its striking blufftop setting that rewards with views over Coachella Valley and a serene sense of seclusion – despite being just a short drive from great restaurants, shopping and golf courses. Dark skies ideal for stargazing and a Veuve Clicquot partnership that ramps up the poolside glamour, among other guest experiences and perks, add to the appeal. With the completion of a two-year, multi-million-dollar remastering across guest rooms, poolscapes and dining spaces that showcases a design-forward infusion of chic earth tones, original art and high-vibrational crystal elements, plus the celebration of its 10th anniversary, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage is poised for a new chapter as one of the most high-touch stays in the valley.
A Palm Springs Luxury Retreat
“This resort has been known as a Palm Springs luxury retreat for years. Now, the design further reflects the beauty of the surrounding San Jacinto Mountains and the serene desert landscape,” shares Shannon Gilbert, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage, whose new-look aesthetic pays homage to the local landscape. To wit: backlit marble and light fixtures crafted with white selenite—a stone revered in metaphysical healing for its ability to purify energy in spaces and people. Edged by an attractive living desert garden, well-placed with mid-century furnishings and bold artwork, the lobby provides plenty of wow factor on arrival.
The Ritz-Carlton brand is synonymous with exceptional service, and that reputation shines through at Rancho Mirage—from the welcome drinks (choose between the tequila-based Rancho Refresher or the zero-proof Rosemary Lemonade) to the expert concierge team, led by a Les Clefs d’Or USA–certified professional for whom no request is too large, small, or outlandish. A dedicated golf concierge further elevates the experience, securing tee times at exclusive area clubs, including PGA West.
The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage’s striking blufftop setting
Thoughtful guest experiences make it easy to stay on property, too. Recent “sip and shop” pop-ups in new lobby adjacent space, the Snug, include partnerships with Saint Laurent and local custom hatmaker Harper & Honey although the team can also arrange private shopping experiences at El Paseo in nearby Palm Desert or the Desert Hills Premium Outlets.
Outside, play yard games like Giant Jenga on the Vista Lawn or Explore The Cosmos with unofficial resident astronomer, Frank, who sets up a Solar Scope (a specialized telescope for safely observing the Sun) and Stargazing experience beside the Reflection Fountain at specific times each day. Set along the Bighorn Sheep migration path, the property also features four scenic hiking trails: opt for the beginner-friendly guided Sunset Hike or more challenging Fitness Hike and with a bit of luck, you might catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures along the way. Children are well considered here too with “Ritz Kids” whose standout Desert Discovery Nights program includes a light dinner, plus educational experiences like stargazing and learning about the resort’s newest team member: desert tortoise, Sully.
Quiet Luxury in Every Detail
The resort’s 260 new-look guest rooms, including 32 suites, embrace a pared down and elegant desert aesthetic. Frette linens, custom furnishings, and a muted palette of sun-washed neutrals reflect the tones of the surrounding landscape, while natural details like handwoven textiles and honed stone soften the clean lines. Subtle elements—backlit marble, delicate crystal accents—add a quiet sense of luxury without overwhelming the serenity of the space. Many rooms open onto private terraces with firepits—perfect for a glass of wine at sunset or stargazing into the night.
Remastered guest rooms & suites reflect a modern desert aesthetic
For a more tailored experience, the exclusive Club Level offers personalized service and elevated privileges. Enjoy curated culinary moments throughout the day—from artisanal breakfast spreads to evening hors d’oeuvres and premium wines—within an intimate Club Lounge whose ambiance is enhanced by a rotating collection of artwork curated by Dawson Cole Fine Art. A recent partnership with Grand Dame Champagne further elevates the experience with a sabering ritual to ceremonially open a bottle of champagne. Adding dramatic flair to any celebration it comes with a commemorative sabering certification and makes for a memorable souvenir.
Pools, Pampering, and Panoramas
Settle into The Ritz-Carlton Spa or hike scenic trails
Beyond its rooms and suites, restaurants and recreational options, the resort offers two distinct pool experiences—framed by more sweeping, uninterrupted views of the Coachella Valley, the adults-only Vista Pool is designed for peaceful relaxation, perhaps paired with a chilled glass of Veuve Clicquot, while the Air Pool welcomes families and social travelers alike with a more vibrant atmosphere and upgraded cabanas.
Steps away, The Ritz-Carlton Spa and its wellness programming also draw inspiration from the desert landscape. A stunning 244-piece quartz crystal chandelier anchors the lobby atrium—a tribute to the footprint of the original resort—signature experiences include the Spirit of the Mountain massage, which draws on ancient healing practices and local botanicals, while the Indigenous Clay Wrap grounds guests in the restorative power of earth and mineral. A boutique space features handmade jewelry, desert-inspired resort wear, and wellness essentials—ideal for a spot of retail therapy between treatments or before a sunset soak in the spa’s private plunge pool.
Sunset over the Santa Rosa Mountains
Locally Inspired Dining
Culinary offerings have reached new heights, too. Set against sweeping valley views and led by incoming head chef Nyitre Rodgers—formerly of the Miami EDITION—the menu at Edge Steakhouse delights with standout dishes like American Wagyu, a creative vegan mushroom steak, and a refreshing watermelon gazpacho. An extensive wine list complements the food, with four sommeliers on hand—including one certified at WSET Level 3—to provide expert recommendations.
Signature restaurant State Fare Bar & Kitchen showcases sophisticated new-look spaces bedecked with jade marble accents and indoor-outdoor seating that spans cozy booths to communal tables which take diners from breakfast smoothies to after dinner cocktails, plus two stunning private dining areas: The Bradshaw Room and a 10-seat chef’s table that looks onto the exhibition-style kitchen. Here, the menu showcases the best California produce from purveyors local to the valley and elsewhere across the state, with dishes like avocado fries and pomegranate glazed steelhead trout.
Dining with a view in The Bradshaw Room
More Than a Stay—A Sense of Place
The resort offers versatile event spaces for celebrations and ceremonies that pair striking desert scenery with thoughtful design. The soon-to-debut Sky Mesa — perched high above the valley with sweeping views of all seven desert cities — will undoubtedly set a spectacular stage for weddings, galas, and starlit receptions. Whether coming for a wellness escape, a special occasion, or a quiet reset, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage offers a distinctly elevated take on the classic desert getaway, one where thoughtful luxury meets a sense of place. Visit ritzcarlton.com for more information.
The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage
