PRICE:
Frommer's Exceptional

This California rancho-style property was built on the remains of a horse farm in 2004, and shortly thereafter was named one of the world's hottest new hotels by Condé Nast Traveler. The 9 1/2-acre spread has some pretty cool neighbors: the Louis I. Kahn-designed Salk Institute, UC San Diego, the Torrey Pines Gliderport, and Blacks Beach. You won't see any of those things from this self-contained retreat, but the romance created by the hacienda flavor and the meticulously maintained gardens with their native flora and bubbling fountains is diversion enough. Guest rooms face a central courtyard, and many rooms have balconies or patios. All rooms are tastefully appointed with comfy furnishings that would be at home in an upscale residence. With its old Californio exterior, outdoor fireplace, and live Spanish guitar music, the Mustangs & Burros lounge and bar is a great place to chill out. There's also an award-winning restaurant on the premises. The full-service spa offers organic-based signature treatments like the red rose hydrating treatment and the garden vegetable wrap. Facilities: Restaurant; 2 bars; pool; fitness center; full-service spa; Jacuzzi; yoga and personal training; concierge; gift shop; free area transportation (5-mile radius); car rental; business center; secretarial support; 24-hr. room service; babysitting service; laundry service; dry cleaning

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's San Diego 2009, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

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