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The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴

Villa near Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert

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Photo gallery for The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴

Outdoor pool
1 bedroom, iron/ironing board, WiFi, bed sheets
Property grounds
Interior
Terrace/patio

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 228 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Palm Desert, CA
  • Place, El Paseo Shopping District
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Vintage Club
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, The Gardens on El Paseo
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Airport, Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.)
    ‪30 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

Palm Desert

Heart of Palm Desert.Within half a mile (1 km) of this South Palm Desert villa, you'll find San Jacinto Mountains and El Paseo Shopping District. The Gardens on El Paseo and Palm Desert Visitor Center are also within 2 miles (3 km).
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What's nearby

  • El Paseo Shopping District - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Vintage Club - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • The Gardens on El Paseo - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Palm Desert Visitor Center - 3 min drive - 1.9 km
  • Living Desert Zoo and Gardens - 4 min drive - 1.9 km

Getting around

  • Palm Springs Station - 25 min drive
  • Bermuda Dunes, CA (UDD) - 13 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Del Taco - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Cactus Jack's Bar and Grill - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Keedy's Fountain Grill - ‬17 min walk

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴

The Experience
Nestled in the heart of Palm Desert, The Margarette is a curated escape designed for rejuvenation. Originally built in 1948, this property captures the quiet elegance of the desert's heritage while offering the modern comforts of a boutique hotel. It is a strictly Adults-Only sanctuary, perfect for couples seeking stillness and connection.
Your Private Sanctuary
• Rest: A plush King-size bed draped in premium linens, framed by French doors that invite the morning sun.
• Zen Space: A secluded private courtyard designed for morning yoga, meditation, or a slow coffee under the palms.
• Atmosphere: Flickering electric fireplace for cozy desert nights and blackout curtains for restorative sleep.
Outdoor Living & Shared Amenities
• Saltwater Dip: Refresh in our 10 x 30 saltwater pool—gentler on the skin and perfect for a mid-day soak.
• Al Fresco Dining: Fire up the brand-new natural gas BBQ and dine under the stars. No reservations required.
• The Grounds: You’ll share the lush backyard with only one other unit (2 guests maximum), ensuring the atmosphere remains intimate and peaceful.
The Kitchenette
Thoughtfully equipped for light meals and morning rituals, including an induction plate, toaster oven, microwave, and coffee maker. Note: Designed for simple prep and easy living rather than multi-course cooking.

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**Important Notes**
- **Adults Only**: The Margarette is a peaceful retreat designed for adults.
- **Pool Access**: Exclusive to registered guests.

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If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out! We’re here to make your stay unforgettable. ✨

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Property amenities

Pool/Spa

  • Communal pool
  • Hot tub
  • Outdoor pool
  • Private pool

Internet

  • Available in the villa: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car recommended
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchenette
  • Microwave
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 0.5 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace

Entertainment

  • TV

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Designated smoking areas
  • Note from host: In courtyard only

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In the city center
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • Near an outlet shopping mall

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Garden
  • Property does not allow children
  • Unit size: 300 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Trash cans are located on the driveway. Grey is for regular trash and blue bin is for recycling.
Please turn off heating or air conditioning unit.
Please message or use app to inform me that you’ve checked out.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • This property does not allow children.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
In courtyard only

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. Long-term renters welcome. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, and a smoke detector in each accommodation.

Property is also known as

1948 Spanish Casita in the Heart of Downtown
Casita Margarita the Perfect Romantic Getaway
1948 Spanish Casita in the Heart of Downtown W/private Entrance

Frequently asked questions

How close is The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴 to the airport?

This villa is 7.8 mi (13-min drive) away from the Bermuda Dunes, CA (UDD) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴 have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this villa.

Does The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴 offer free breakfast?

This villa does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴?

No, there is no casino at this villa, but Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City (11-min drive) and Agua Caliente Casino (14-min drive) are nearby.

What time is check-in at The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

Is there free parking at The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴?

Free parking is not available at this villa.

Does The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴 have a pool?

This villa features an outdoor pool.

Does The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴 have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this villa.

How close is The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴 to downtown Palm Desert?

This villa is 0.8 mi away from Palm Desert.

The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴 Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 26 out of 28 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 28 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 28 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 28 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 28 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Ram R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Location was convenient to visit tennis garden and also local restaurants. Clean studio and lovely environment
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great experience. Cozy little space, very comfortable and close to everything! Great shower!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Tamela W.

Liked: Cleanliness
We had a wonderful stay. Margret is a wonderful hostess. She pays attention to detail. The place was very clean. It's perfect for a couple to stay. The pool was very refreshing and in the summer she had a sun shade which was fantastic for enjoying the pool the whole day. We had a friendly visit from the kitty cat every day. They are beautiful cats. It is very centrally located. It has a nice kitchenette, beautiful stone shower, and comfortable king bed. We definitely recommend this place and will book Margret's place again
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Margarita H.

Liked: Cleanliness

A Mediterranean Piece of Heaven

My husband and I spent one of a kind romantic weekend in this unique casita. We enjoyed everything that the thoughtful owner provided for a perfect getaway.. Thanks Margret for a very complete experience.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ian R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Palm Desert Comfort

Clean, close access to the Palm Desert area. Quiet and a beautiful backyard pool area. It was hard to leave. I'd certainly stay again
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Caitlin B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful spot

Beautiful and convenient oasis in the desert. Margaret made sure we were comfortable and had everything we needed. Would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sarah D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Like our private resort!

Such a sweet place. The yard and pool are exceptional, better than the photos I think. We used the kitchenette a fair bit, and it was good, if compact. Many artful and thoughtful touches. My partner and I have different ideas of what a comfortable bed is and we both found this one passable. Snacks and wine are a nice touch. Used the grill and enjoyed the jacuzzi. Host communication was responsive and helpful.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect location

Everything was great 👍
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Colleen M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Tennis in the Desert

Property was very cozy and comfortable. We didn’t have time to use the pool as we were at the Indian Wells tennis tournament, but it was relaxing to sit beside and enjoy morning coffee. We also loved the welcoming committee known as Duchess the cat.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Luke G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Nice quiet house!

I like how close it is to center of activities, but also so quiet! I got to meet Margret! She is an awesome host!!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jason G.

Liked: Cleanliness

5 star

Beautiful property- Margare is super nice and accommodating
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

margaret b., Kingston, Ontario, Canada.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great location in Palm Desert

Very helpful host (owner) Lovely garden and pool (shared with one other unit) Private garden sitting area King size comfortable bed
Stayed 9 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Chad T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Enjoyed our stay

This VRBO is located in a nice neighborhood in the town of Palm Desert. It is pretty close to places we wanted to visit, such as the PNB Paribas tennis tournament. Also it is relatively close to good hiking, shopping, restaurants. The owner seemed very nice. Gardens were pretty. Lots of places to chill out with a book and relax.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barry K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Our stay - 7 nights

Very quiet and comfortable. Margaret put lots of thought in the nice decor. Bed was super comfortable.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Reese F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Exactly what we needed

My partner and I were looking for a relaxing weekend getaway with a pool and this was exactly what we were looking for. Margaret was a great host, the unit was perfect, and we really enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sue J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect for us!

This is a small but sweet unit. The yard and pool are delightful! Margret was great at keeping in touch and responding to any inquiries. We did not locate the controller for the heat/air, which would have been helpful in the night, but our stay was short and we didn't get around to following up on that. The only thing I would suggest is to have the shower drain checked out as it backs up, though that wasn't a big deal. We'd love to come and stay again! Really enjoyed the area-Joshua Tree Nat'l Park was great, as was a hike in Tahquitz Canyon. Also enjoyed the Moorten Gardens! Thank you Margret!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Richard H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Palm Desert Hideaway

We had a wonderful time here and was so convenient to everything including El Paseo Drive .the good eateries are right around the corner no more than 8 blocks away
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Steve A.

Liked: Cleanliness

Little slice of chill

Beautiful little property with so many places to sit and read and r have morning coffee. We enjoyed it very much.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Janet G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great little bungalow!

What a great property! It was everything described, and more. The private courtyard was beautiful, relaxing, and romantic. Margaret is a wonderful super host. The amenities and supplies were high quality, and she surprised us with gifts of wine and a chacuterie gift box! The location is also excellent. Close to high end shopping and highly rated golf courses. Great value for the price. We'll definitely return.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Margret was very responsive to our questions. It was a very comfortable space with thoughtfulness put into equipping it for our every need. It was close to golfing, hiking, mountain biking.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2022

8/10 Good

Tom S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Private and Comfortable

The quiet, private two unit home was very comfortable and close in PD to all amenities. Margret is a terrific host and on site in her separate home to take care of any needs immediately. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Steve S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect Location

Margaret is awesome to communicate with and goes out of her way to make sure you have everything you need to enjoy your stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

8/10 Good

Chaz M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place for a getaway

Margrets place is a sweet cozy casita for a getaway weekend! Very nice back yard during the day and at night time it’s an extremely tranquil place to be. Definitely would recommend staying here!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Oksana V.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cute casita, nice host!

We had a lovely time at Margret's casita. It's an hour away from Joshua Tree, which we came to explore! Perfect 3-day getaway and Margret was very sweet, helpful and quick to respond.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Robert M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect!

Really nice clean unit. Perfect for my needs.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020