It’s easy to fall under the spell of Palm Springs with its Old Hollywood glam, mid-century architecture, flower-lined fairways, endless sunshine and starry starry nights. Nostalgia laces the air with the legendary tales of Rat Pack parties and piano bars, Dinah Shore golf tournaments, princely polo matches and presidents galore. For the ultimate desert stay, Beau Monde Villas by Natural Retreats has a collection of architecturally signifi cant homes in the desert area, some with great history, all with outstanding amenities and design. An elite concierge will arrange for private chefs, trainers, drivers, spa days, and tee times, or stock the fridge, so you can experience the desert in grand style. beaumondevillas.com

The City of Palm Springs – 1039

FRANK SINATRA’S TWIN PALMS ESTATE
If you’re curious how Old Blue Eyes lived it up in Palm Springs, you can rent his former home in the Movie Colony neighborhood this mid-century gem, designed by renowned desert architect E. Stewart Williams in 1947, hosted legendary parties with the likes of Marilyn Monroe and Tony Curtis swimming in its piano-shaped pool. The four bedroom, six and a half bathroom home has a great mix of Sinatra memorabilia and vintage décor, like the original sound and recording system from Capitol Records. Th e house’s pocket doors create a great indoor/outdoor fl ow. Naturally, a piano sits in the living room, but if you don’t play, your concierge can arrange for a pianist to set the tone. Sleeps 8, starting at $2200 per night.

LENA HORNE ESTATE
Jazz singer, dancer and actress Lena Horne bought this mid-century retreat in the late 50s. Colorful artwork and vintage pieces brighten the airy three-bedroom bungalow and two-bedroom guest house with views of the San Jacinto Mountains. Dip into the pool, dine under the stars by the outdoor fireplace and soak in the grotto-style hot tub. Th e boutiques and entertainment of Old Las Palmas are a breezy five-minute stroll away. Sleeps 10, month-long or seasonal stays. Starts at $14,000 a month.

The City of Palm Springs – 3943

ON THE ROCKS
Originally built in 1959 and recently re-imagined, this modern beauty, a shining example of organic architecture, sits high on the hill, overlooking Palm Springs and the desert valley. Th e open layout features floor-to-ceiling glass, a natural rock fireplace, a chef’s kitchen and striking mix of vintage and modern furniture. Lavish bedroom suites, an infinity pool and outdoor dining nooks add to the appeal. Th e outdoor living room dazzles with its fire pit, bar area, movie projector and vintage barbecue. Sleeps 6, starting at $2300 per night.

THE MERV GRIFFIN ESTATE
Merv Griffin loved the desert, living large on his 39-acre equestrian property in La Quinta. You can rent his 13-bedroom estate, which features a 6000-square-foot Moroccan-themed main house, four Casitas, two guest houses, stables, a racetrack and massive pond. Lounge by the infinity pool, play bocce ball or paddleboat across the pond while enjoying the mountain silhouettes. This grand estate is perfect for corporate events or weddings. Sleeps 26, starting at $5650 per night.

SOURCEAnn Wycoff
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