Death Valley: Inn at Furnace Creek
By Sherril Steele-Carlin
Death Valley, California may conjure up some pretty scary thoughts, but one of the finest resorts in the country is nestled near Furnace Creek in Death Valley, one of the country's most inhospitable parks. The Inn at Furnace Creek is one of our national parks' most luxurious and elegant inns.
Inn History
First opened in 1927 by the Pacific Borax Company, this Spanish-style building contains only 66 rooms, including suites. The Inn prides itself on elegance and fine service. Its four-diamond AAA rating means that you’ll be pampered from the minute you arrive until the minute you leave the Inn. The dining room is formal, and there is a dress code for dinner. You can also enjoy afternoon tea; a thermally heated swimming pool centered on a beautiful outdoor fireplace, and lighted tennis courts.
According to the Inn’s official press release, "Los Angeles architect Albert C. Martin designed the mission-style structure set into the low ridge overlooking Furnace Creek Wash. Adobe bricks were hand made by Paiute and Shoshone laborers. A Spanish stonemason named Steve Esteves created the Moorish-influenced stonework, while meandering gardens and Deglet Noor palm trees were planted. Year by year, additions and improvements were added until its completion in 1935 with 66 rooms. The warm, spring-fed swimming pool was also constructed with views of the surrounding mountains and valley below and has become the centerpiece of the hotel."
Enjoy the Luxuries
Imagine waking up in the morning and enjoying coffee on your private balcony. Then, you can stroll among the date palms in the garden, and enjoy horseback riding, a relaxing massage, or enjoy 18 holes of golf on the newly redesigned course that's 214 feet below sea level.
The Sunday champagne brunches are legendary, with smoked salmon, champagne, and everything in between. Las Vegas residents have been known to make the two-hour drive just for brunch! The restaurant serves fine cuisine, with a panoramic view of the Panamint Mountains in the background.
What to See
Then of course, you can explore the beauty of Death Valley. California’s lowest point (Badwater) and highest point (Mt. Whitney) can both be seen from the park. You can visit Devil's Golf Course and Badwater, and view Mt. Whitney from both locations. Death Valley’s scenery is stark, but has its own brand of beauty and majesty. Just remember, in the summertime it can get very HOT. The North American heat record is 134 degrees Fahrenheit, and Death Valley holds that record.
The Furnace Creek Inn is open year-round, but the "season" in Death Valley, CA is fall, winter, and early spring, so make your reservations now! You can call 760-786-2345 for reservations at the Inn, or visit the first Web site below.
