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 This year I acted on that resolution by booking a two-night stay at the Montage Resort & Spa in Laguna Beach. Better late, I figured, than never. THE LAP OF LUXURY There’s a reason Montage ranks high on top luxury resort lists and continues to do so since it opened in February 2003. There’s also a reason why so many of their guests — from celebrities and businessmen to weekend travelers — come from neighboring communities. It’s the view. The Montage is two miles south of downtown Laguna Beach and a short walk to a closer — albeit smaller — cluster of shops and restaurants. The architecture hints at arts and crafts, but the celery green walls and 21st century luxuries such as feather-top beds, flat-screen TVs and high-end surround sound systems give the guest rooms a look that’s more beach chic than Greene & Greene. There are 262 rooms — from standard guest rooms to bungalow-style suites — that are separate from the resort’s main building and steps from the sand. If the president happens to be in town, his 2,800-square-foot suite is waiting with a two-sided fireplace. FIT FOR A KING — OR QUEEN My husband and I arrived on a Sunday, checked in and unpacked. We followed the view from our balcony to the lobby’s balcony to the pool area and down to the beach, where we joined dozens of others taking a stroll. It was the calm after the storm — just a week after January’s torrential rains. These were three of the most beautiful winter days I can remember. We could have been an ocean away, somewhere along the French Riviera, I thought. But we were just 45 minutes from home. On our second day my husband hit the pool, which seemingly flows into the ocean, and I hit the treadmill. After lunch I headed to the spa. It was busy but not crowded. I was directed to the changing room, after which I made my way to the waiting area, a living room atmosphere complete with a fireplace that looks out onto a covered patio with a cold plunge pool and whirlpool. My therapist greeted me with a warm handshake. I knew immediately I was in good hands. She reviewed my treatment, Surrender. This customized approach to determining the right treatments based on congestion or stagnation points throughout the body can last two hours or all day. The evaluation also includes modifications to exercise and diet programs as well as recommended mineral supplements with family health history in mind. She poked and prodded and did a little deep tissue massage. At the end of my two hours, I was so relaxed I could hardly stand. It was that good. About a week later my therapist e-mailed me her findings and suggestions for a healthier body. While the Montage does not bill itself as a health resort, nutritionists and fitness trainers are on hand to customize your stay with an emphasis on physical well-being. In addition to massages, facials and treatments inspired by the sea (Marine Wrap, Algae Cellulite Massage) and the earth (California Citrus Polish, Clay Body Sculpting), there’s a full-service salon and workout facilities. The resort offers a day pass with the purchase of a treatment. The pass provides access to the resort’s three pools, sauna, steam room, whirlpool, fitness room and entry into any of the exercise classes. THE ART OF FINE DINING We dined at the signature restaurant, Studio. Unfortunately it was so dark outside that we couldn’t see the ocean, but a sunset dinner would undoubtedly be breathtaking. The chef treated us to an unbelievable Parmesan risotto, which was followed by a petite shrimp in an avocado sauce. We both passed on the surf and stuck with the turf — a tender filet mignon for me and an herb-encrusted lamb for my husband, which he can’t stop raving about. Don’t skip dessert here; the selections are small but they do the job if you’re plagued with a sweet tooth. Our experience at The Loft was just as memorable. The only restaurant in the main building, The Loft is on the fourth floor with spectacular views of the resort and ocean. We especially liked the cozy booths, which are a step up from the rest of the tables. There also is seating on the outside veranda. Be sure to sample the 50-plus artisan cheeses. The resort’s chefs search the globe for the right cheese to complement your wine or palette, whichever you prefer. Also, I highly recommend the circular Chocolate Expressionism dessert tray lined with about a dozen items, from decadent chocolate ice cream to samplings of créme brulee, cakes, tarts and pies. DON’T FORGET YOUR CLUBS On our last day we hit the links at Montage-owned Aliso Creek Inn Golf Course, a nine-hole executive track five miles from the resort off Pacific Coast Highway. Tucked in a beautiful canyon, Aliso Creek may be in for a complete makeover. Although it’s in the preliminary stages of planning, Montage has aspirations to expand the course to 18 holes. At the very least, cosmetic enhancements are planned. But for now, the simple layout is a fun retreat for a quick nine. n |
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