Review: Is this San Diego’s best luxury hotel
REVIEW: Fairmont Grand Del Mar Review
WHERE
Southern California is known for its great climate, its laid-back vibe and its beaches. Surfing, golf, tennis and spa are favourite activities of the locals (in particular, the well-heeled and celebrity locals which are in greater concentration here than elsewhere on the planet). So, it’s no surprise savvy visitors to SoCal seek out the playgrounds and the places the locals prefer to stay. And why the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, has been voted #1 luxury hotel in San Diego, California and in the USA over the last three years on TripAdvisor. Situated minutes from some of the State’s most sought-after beaches, nestled among the fairways of the Tom Fazio-designed 18-hole Grand Golf Club, and offering the full complement of luxury and sporting amenities, this is nirvana-central and a world-class resort.
ROOMS
Our Deluxe Verandah King room’s sun-soaked balcony overlooked the adults-only full-length lap-pool, fountains and serene courtyard gardens. Two queen-sized pillowtop beds with goose down pillows still left us with a generous room with desk and work-space, a huge walk in robe and dressing room and opulent deep marble bath with separate rain shower. Heaven. There are also 31 suites ranging from the massive 2840 square feet of the presidential two-bedroom suite with private balconies to the executive suites, still luxuriously large at lover 1000 square feet. Lavish top quality amenities are standard throughout, from plush robes and fine linens to the European deep tubs and the atmospheric candles.
FEATURES
Four heated swimming pools, tennis courts, a Renaissance-inspired spa; old world charm with a nod to the best of Mediterranean design and ambience with lush manicured gardens, fountains and patios melding seamlessly into an indoor/ outdoor opulence and easygoing elegance.
DINING
Fine dining is available at four restaurants; Addison; dinner only, featuring contemporary, artisanal French cuisine is a must and the all-day restaurant Amaya, where we opted for the outdoor terrace seating for an a la carte breakfast each morning, complete with my favourite loose leaf English breakfast tea. Other options include a gourmet coffee shop serving fresh pastries and poolside dining for lighter fare. Live music, guest DJs and cocktails transform the casual Clubhouse Grill into Club M on the weekend nights, another reason to stay in and enjoy the resort.
WHAT TO DO
Hard not to be active here (it is SoCal after all) and mornings bring a choice of complimentary fitness classes, yoga or guided walks as well as those enticing swimming pools and that’s before breakfast. A huge range of activities is on offer both on or near the property and I am torn between FOMO (fear of missing out) and wanting to venture into the city we have come to see. Golf or spa? The answer can be both. One of the region’s most dramatic and challenging courses, the par-72 Grand Golf Club spans 380 spectacular acres, accommodates all levels of play and recently underwent significant improvements. Resort guests enjoy exclusive access to the private Grand Golf Club, with membership limited to Villa owners. The Renaissance styled spa is a thoughtfully designed retreat in keeping with the Mediterranean vibe, with over 11 treatment rooms including a couples’ suite and separate relaxation areas for men and women, offering a comprehensive range of programs and a la carte services. At night, head into town to visit one of the many uber-trendy speakeasies in the city. Read our story on the best speakeasies in San Diego HERE.
WHAT I LOVED
The Spa. I floated out of there as if on a cloud.
Details
Fairmont Grand Del Mar – click HERE for information
So when in SoCal, don your designer sunnies and make like a local; whether taking time out from fans and media attention (aka your work schedule) or to have a luxurious base from which to explore San Diego and surrounds, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar should be venue of choice.
