Court and Spark

Court and Spark: California

Step back in time to this vintage-style pad in an idyllic Palm Desert location. Inside is where twenty-first-century home comfort meets 1960s Palm Springs chic, with a cool coastal colour scheme, vibrant furniture and curated cacti. Bask in the glorious year-round sunshine on the back deck, splash around in the pool, fire up the barbecue, and practise your aim on the putting green as the meat sizzles. Canopied by tall palms and punchy orange parasols, you'll find a lovely spot for an afternoon snooze in no time. Elsewhere, the open-plan interior and large patio doors make for a stylish living space bathed in natural light. Knock up a couple of homemade California burritos in the chef's kitchen, pour yourself a chilled glass of wine and hang out under the gentle shade - in these surroundings, you really have no choice but to slow down and relax. Although, if you can peel yourself away from the sun lounger, you're in the heart of the greater Palm Springs area with all there is to eat, drink and do right at your doorstep. Culture buffs will enjoy one of the local architectural tours on offer, while the Living Desert Zoo is a great family day out and only a six-minute drive away. Shop-till-you-drop and taste the tantalising food scene of the El Paseo district (which is basically the Rodeo of the Coachella Valley), less than a half-hour walk from your door. Whether you choose to spend most of your stay languorously idling by the pool or venturing off and exploring this beautiful natural landscape, you’re in for a treat here.

Home truths:
*At capacity, two people will be sleeping on a pullout sofa bed in the living room
*You will need a car to get around this desert landscape – there's free parking at the home
*First-day breakfast is provided on arrival
*There is the option of having the pool heated, though it'll cost a bit extra – $20 per day plus a preheating day
*The high-speed WiFi (up to 400MB) and two desk spaces makes this home ideal for remote workers
*Quiet hours are between 10:00 pm and 10:00 am – this is strictly enforced by your hosts
*Renters must be aged 25 or older