Estancia La Jolla

This former equestrian estate makes for an idyllic and romantic getaway.

• The countless rocking chairs scattered around the hotel inviting guests to relax
• The sprawling and elegant Estate Suites with four-poster beds and soaking tubs
• The chocolate and wine pairings at the wine bar

Just north of the Torrey Pines State Reserve in the beach community of La Jolla, this former equestrian estate is set on 10 verdant acres with 210 rooms, and still manages to feel intimate and relaxed. From its red-tile roofs and hand-plastered walls to its hundreds of citrus, olive, fig, eucalyptus and pomegranate trees, the property looks very much like a Spanish Mission-style ranch with its own botanical gardens including a separate rose garden.

Swathed in shades of caramel and cream, rooms feature white-tiled baths and either patios or balconies overlooking the lush courtyard spa is complete with a saltwater whirlpool and Asian influenced therapies including a cherry blossom and rice powder body scrub and massage.

The weekend breakfast buffet at Adobe restaurant is very popular, while hacienda-style Mustangs & Burros offers fine dining matched with incredible tequilas. The awarding winning Trinitas Cellars Wine Bar offers wine by the glass or flights.

Couples will enjoy this romantic hotel, where it’s easy to while away the day by the pool or sitting by a fireplace, a glass of wine in hand.