The Triangle Inn: A Desert Oasis
June is Gay Pride month, and while the celebration of diversity heats up, I can’t help but point out a recent discovery of an inviting and downright charming portal in Palm Springs that’s worthy of attention: the Triangle Inn.
Owned by Michael C. Green and Stephen Boyd, this hot spot has been generating buzz for some time now. Last year, it nabbed the 2010 Palm Springs People’s Choice Award for Best Gay Resort. And it was hard to argue that fact after spending two nights at this dreamy haven during my recent trek into the desert.
One word: Resplendent.
Perfectly situated in a quiet neighborhood just five minutes from downtown Palm Springs, the Triangle captures all the glories of a big resort even though its really a cozy boutique motel in disguise. Aside from its friendly, insightful owners, you can chalk up some of its charm to good feng shui (it’s perched on a stellar corner lot) and the attractive mid-century modern architectural design, orchestrated by titan Hugh M. Kaptur.
But beyond that, I sense the success of this bit of heaven has everything to with its owners, who reside on site, and managed to work wonders with the land here—lush landscapes and attractive flowers decorate the area both inside and out.
Within its inner sanctum, a spacious pool, jacuzzi and patio area await. The pool is inviting—things are clothing-optional here. On that note: the overall vibe here is low-key, relaxed and grounded. While some LGBT resorts boast a highly frenetic, pick-up vibe, not so here. Friendliness trumps everything else.
Speaking of… there’s a terrific happy hour/meet-and-greet here on most weekdays and the owners often offer a slew of offsite opportunities—hiking, cycling and more. There are some standout events/packages going on throughout the seasons, too, ranging from yoga retreats to spa packages.
A few that caught my eye: Pampered Pleasure Package ($579), which includes three nights, an expanded breakfast, massage and tickets to the local art museum. Or, for something different, I couldn’t help but get a kick out of “The Psychic Celebration” package. (Be still my Shirley MacLaine beating heart!) At $599, it delivers a “New Age Welcome Basket,” three nights in a deluxe studio, breakfast, two psychic readings and more.
More good news: Because the resort is perfectly located near downtown Palm Springs, it’s minutes away from big attractions like the Palm Spring Aerial Tramway and the Palm Springs Indian Canyons. Of course, there’s a lavish abundance of shops and dining experiences in town—you must try the sensational offerings and service at Trio, perhaps one of the brightest spots on Palm Springs’ culinary plate these days.
But enough about the “outside” stuff. Within the walls of the Triangle Inn resides an opportunity for emotional and mental rejuvenation. Few small Southern Californian resorts of this ilk are able to capture both the charm and the rewards of a getaway to such winning ends. Clean, open and—this is important—homey, the Triangle Inn is one of the most enchanting surprises in the desert.
A perfect oasis indeed.
Where: 555 East San Lorenzo Road
Palm Springs, CA
(760) 322-7993
Price: $125.00 – $205.00 US; $405.00 US (four-bedroom Desert Dream House)
Amenities:
Pool, Jacuzzi, patio. Kitchen/kitchenettes, private library, eco-friendly toiletries.
