Oasis at Death Valley- Death Valley, CA

Death Valley is a place of unexpected beauty. Equally unexpected is the presence of a luxury hotel in such an unlikely location. Seemingly tucked into the mountain folds stands The Oasis at Death Valley, formerly The Inn at Furnace Creek, an elegant historic oasis.

Constructed by the Pacific Coast Borax Company in 1927, the mission style building designed by Albert C. Martin and Daniel Hull blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. A lush palm garden fed by natural springs adds to the overall oasis feel of the property. Crisscrossed with narrow stone pathways, at night the garden takes on a magic feel.

The warm springs also feed Furnace Creek’s signature swimming pool, keeping it at a constant 82 degrees. Flanked with large stone fireplaces, the beautifully tiled pool is nothing short of stunning. Few experiences compare to the utter peacefulness of a night swim under the desert stars.

Local stone was used to construct the inn’s first floor, the fireplaces and the mountain framing arches. It lends a rustic, organic feel to the hotel, perfectly suited for a National Park structure.

Although there are several different rooms types, all with their charms, the holy grail is the pool bungalow. A stand alone room with solid stone walls and wood floors, steps away from the pool deck, it is by far the best room at the resort. As there is only one, it will most likely not be available. Don’t worry though, both the oasis garden and terrace rooms have amazing views to compensate for their otherwise ordinary nature.

Although recently renovated, the spartan rooms don’t exactly exude luxury, and don’t seem to fit with the price point. That is, until you consider the remote location, your access to the park, and all of those wonderful outdoor spaces.  Then it makes sense. And, this truly is a place you will not spend much time in your room.

Closed during the scorching summer months, Furnace Creek Inn is open from October to May each year. Winter is a fabulous time to explore the park, while the early spring brings stunning wild flowers during rainy years. There are only 66 rooms, so book your room well in advance, and don’t forget dinner reservations. The main dining room is quite popular, closes early, and frequently turns people away. I speak from experience, and am still salty. They also have a lovely lobby bar with fantastic views, as well as service on their patios.

Finally, the resort is the home to the world’s lowest elevation golf course. At 214 feet below sea level, you will absolutely notice a difference in your distances. Surrounded by mountains, and under the watchful eye of course coyotes, it promises to be one of your more memorable rounds.