Southern California's best kept secret:
Sequestered at 5,100 feet above sea level, in a distinctive alpine setting among the tall pines and birch trees ...
It could well be Southern California's best-kept secret: Lake Arrowhead and the recently redone (in tasteful fashion, to the tune of $18 million) Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa. Sequestered at 5,100 feet above sea level, in a distinctive alpine setting among the tall pines and birch trees on what is called "The Rim of the World," this legendary resort-just 2-1/2 hours from Los Angeles-has long attracted entertainment stars, business moguls and lovers in search of the solitude of a lazy lakeside village.
Lake Arrowhead harkens back to a simpler, more innocent time when barbecue grilled on the beach or dock together with moonlit walks or motorboat rides combined to fill a summer's evening. Hot dogs are still on the fire here and kids still ride the carousel, go fishing and head for the ice cream store for a treat while their parents promenade around the lake, perhaps shopping in one of the scores of intriguing shops (our favorite is Wildflowers, a blissful flower store) that make up the village.
The crown jewel of the lake is the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa, a soaring, timbered, fireplace-filled refuge with mountain and lake vistas now managed by Peter Henry, whose reputation as the maestro of the Sonoma Mission Inn and the Cheeca Lodge & Spa assures first-rate hotelkeeping and warm hospitality. Mr. Henry and his young energetic staff work hard to provide a memorable experience at this family-friendly (and pet-friendly) resort with a notable restaurant called BIN189 serving up innovative dishes prepared by a young, talented chef, Stewart Redhead. A superb wine cellar is stocked with excellent California and international wines.
The resort's 162 rooms and 11 suites have been done up in earth tones accented by buttery leathers, deep soaking tubs and dynamic Indian prints. The big attraction here is an 11,000-sq.-ft. full spa, Spa of the Pines, with an array of massages, facials, and body treatments of extraordinary quality. In addition, there is a complete workout facility with daily aerobics, Tai Chi, Pilates, yoga and other fitness classes. The Spa also includes a beauty salon for manicures, pedicures and hair services.
At the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa there is much to do: catch-and-release fishing excursions, movies, star-gazing experiences, hikes, cooking classes, boat rides on the resort's comfy pontoon yacht or just lazy days by the pool or in a hammock. There is even a Love Letters Program supervised by the resort's "Love Doctor" to encourage couples to get closer in touch. And, best of all, this is a place for all seasons: Big Bear and its ski attractions are just 30 minutes away.
We recommend a visit now to this special spot on clean, crystal-clear Lake Arrowhead. And if you are planning a business meeting, it is ideal for small conferences. Nearby golf on a championship course at the country club is easily arranged. The Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa has a laudable green, environmentally-conscious program in force to preserve its beautiful surroundings. This is a special place where one's inner batteries can be recharged while embraced by nature and where the ever-present spirit of the Serrano Indians-who once walked this land-can be truly felt.
William Tomicki
Editor and Publisher
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