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The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴

Photo gallery for The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴

Room
Nighttime pool views are epic.
Evening are magical.
Perfect spot for a romantic evening.
Exterior detail

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom0+ bathroomsSleeps 2300 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Private pool
  • Hot tub on site
  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Palm Desert, CA
  • Place, El Paseo Shopping District
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Vintage Club
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, The Gardens on El Paseo
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Airport, Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.)
    ‪30 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Studio

1 King Bed

1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Garden

About this property

The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴

The Experience
Nestled in the heart of Palm Desert, The Margarette is a curated escape designed for rejuvenation. Originally built in 1948, this property captures the quiet elegance of the desert's heritage while offering the modern comforts of a boutique hotel. It is a strictly Adults-Only sanctuary, perfect for couples seeking stillness and connection.
Your Private Sanctuary
• Rest: A plush King-size bed draped in premium linens, framed by French doors that invite the morning sun.
• Zen Space: A secluded private courtyard designed for morning yoga, meditation, or a slow coffee under the palms.
• Atmosphere: Flickering electric fireplace for cozy desert nights and blackout curtains for restorative sleep.
Outdoor Living & Shared Amenities
• Saltwater Dip: Refresh in our 10 x 30 saltwater pool—gentler on the skin and perfect for a mid-day soak.
• Al Fresco Dining: Fire up the brand-new natural gas BBQ and dine under the stars. No reservations required.
• The Grounds: You’ll share the lush backyard with only one other unit (2 guests maximum), ensuring the atmosphere remains intimate and peaceful.
The Kitchenette
Thoughtfully equipped for light meals and morning rituals, including an induction plate, toaster oven, microwave, and coffee maker. Note: Designed for simple prep and easy living rather than multi-course cooking.

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**Important Notes**
- **Adults Only**: The Margarette is a peaceful retreat designed for adults.
- **Pool Access**: Exclusive to registered guests.

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If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out! We’re here to make your stay unforgettable. ✨

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
In courtyard only

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Trash cans are located on the driveway. Grey is for regular trash and blue bin is for recycling.
Please turn off heating or air conditioning unit.
Please message or use app to inform me that you’ve checked out.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

About the area

Palm Desert

Located in South Palm Desert, a neighbourhood in Palm Desert, this villa is near a water park. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Palm Canyon and Indian Canyon, while Living Desert Zoo and Gardens and Palm Springs Convention Center are popular area attractions. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Indian Wells Tennis Garden or Agua Caliente Casino. Break out the clubs and hit the links on a nearby golf course, or seek out an adventure with rock climbing, mountain biking and horse riding.
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Map
Palm Desert, CA

What's nearby

  • El Paseo Shopping District - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Vintage Club - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • The Gardens on El Paseo - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Palm Desert Visitor Center - 3 min drive - 1.9 km
  • Living Desert Zoo and Gardens - 4 min drive - 1.9 km

Getting around

  • Palm Springs Station - 25 min drive
  • Bermuda Dunes, CA (UDD) - 13 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Del Taco - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Cactus Jack's Bar and Grill - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Keedy's Fountain Grill - ‬17 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Does The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴 have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

How much does it cost to stay at The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴?

As of 16 Apr, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴 on 11 May, 2026 start from S$202, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴 pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴 located?

Located in South Palm Desert, this villa is within 1 mi (2 km) of San Jacinto Mountains and Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. El Paseo Shopping District and The Gardens on El Paseo are also within 1 mile (2 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 26 out of 28 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 28 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 28 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 28 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 28 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great experience. Cozy little space, very comfortable and close to everything! Great shower!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect location

Everything was great 👍
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Caitlin B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful spot

Beautiful and convenient oasis in the desert. Margaret made sure we were comfortable and had everything we needed. Would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

margaret b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location in Palm Desert

Very helpful host (owner) Lovely garden and pool (shared with one other unit) Private garden sitting area King size comfortable bed
Stayed 9 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Aug, 2023
It was such a pleasure meeting you both. Hope to see you again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ian R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Palm Desert Comfort

Clean, close access to the Palm Desert area. Quiet and a beautiful backyard pool area. It was hard to leave. I'd certainly stay again
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Margarita H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Mediterranean Piece of Heaven

My husband and I spent one of a kind romantic weekend in this unique casita. We enjoyed everything that the thoughtful owner provided for a perfect getaway.. Thanks Margret for a very complete experience.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Luke G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice quiet house!

I like how close it is to center of activities, but also so quiet! I got to meet Margret! She is an awesome host!!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Dec, 2023
Thank you Luke. It was I pleasure. Hope to see you again soon.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chad T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Enjoyed our stay

This VRBO is located in a nice neighborhood in the town of Palm Desert. It is pretty close to places we wanted to visit, such as the PNB Paribas tennis tournament. Also it is relatively close to good hiking, shopping, restaurants. The owner seemed very nice. Gardens were pretty. Lots of places to chill out with a book and relax.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

5 star

Beautiful property- Margare is super nice and accommodating
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Colleen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Tennis in the Desert

Property was very cozy and comfortable. We didn’t have time to use the pool as we were at the Indian Wells tennis tournament, but it was relaxing to sit beside and enjoy morning coffee. We also loved the welcoming committee known as Duchess the cat.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Janet G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great little bungalow!

What a great property! It was everything described, and more. The private courtyard was beautiful, relaxing, and romantic. Margaret is a wonderful super host. The amenities and supplies were high quality, and she surprised us with gifts of wine and a chacuterie gift box! The location is also excellent. Close to high end shopping and highly rated golf courses. Great value for the price. We'll definitely return.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tamela W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay. Margret is a wonderful hostess. She pays attention to detail. The place was very clean. It's perfect for a couple to stay. The pool was very refreshing and in the summer she had a sun shade which was fantastic for enjoying the pool the whole day. We had a friendly visit from the kitty cat every day. They are beautiful cats. It is very centrally located. It has a nice kitchenette, beautiful stone shower, and comfortable king bed. We definitely recommend this place and will book Margret's place again
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Like our private resort!

Such a sweet place. The yard and pool are exceptional, better than the photos I think. We used the kitchenette a fair bit, and it was good, if compact. Many artful and thoughtful touches. My partner and I have different ideas of what a comfortable bed is and we both found this one passable. Snacks and wine are a nice touch. Used the grill and enjoyed the jacuzzi. Host communication was responsive and helpful.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Feb, 2025
Delighted you were able to use some of the amenities. Thank you for being 5 star guests and we hope to see you again soon.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ram R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Location was convenient to visit tennis garden and also local restaurants. Clean studio and lovely environment
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barry K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our stay - 7 nights

Very quiet and comfortable. Margaret put lots of thought in the nice decor. Bed was super comfortable.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Reese F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exactly what we needed

My partner and I were looking for a relaxing weekend getaway with a pool and this was exactly what we were looking for. Margaret was a great host, the unit was perfect, and we really enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sue J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect for us!

This is a small but sweet unit. The yard and pool are delightful! Margret was great at keeping in touch and responding to any inquiries. We did not locate the controller for the heat/air, which would have been helpful in the night, but our stay was short and we didn't get around to following up on that. The only thing I would suggest is to have the shower drain checked out as it backs up, though that wasn't a big deal. We'd love to come and stay again! Really enjoyed the area-Joshua Tree Nat'l Park was great, as was a hike in Tahquitz Canyon. Also enjoyed the Moorten Gardens! Thank you Margret!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Aug, 2023
Your husband mentioned you couldn’t find the remote to heating and air conditioning. I went into the unit with him and handed the remote to him. I’ve had several guests since your stay and no mention from anyone about a shower issue however I will definitely take a look at it . Ensuring each stay is 5 star is the ultimate goal. Thank you Sue.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Richard H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Palm Desert Hideaway

We had a wonderful time here and was so convenient to everything including El Paseo Drive .the good eateries are right around the corner no more than 8 blocks away
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steve A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Little slice of chill

Beautiful little property with so many places to sit and read and r have morning coffee. We enjoyed it very much.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Margret was very responsive to our questions. It was a very comfortable space with thoughtfulness put into equipping it for our every need. It was close to golfing, hiking, mountain biking.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Tom S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Private and Comfortable

The quiet, private two unit home was very comfortable and close in PD to all amenities. Margret is a terrific host and on site in her separate home to take care of any needs immediately. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steve S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Location

Margaret is awesome to communicate with and goes out of her way to make sure you have everything you need to enjoy your stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021
Verified

8/10 Good

Chaz M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place for a getaway

Margrets place is a sweet cozy casita for a getaway weekend! Very nice back yard during the day and at night time it’s an extremely tranquil place to be. Definitely would recommend staying here!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Oksana V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute casita, nice host!

We had a lovely time at Margret's casita. It's an hour away from Joshua Tree, which we came to explore! Perfect 3-day getaway and Margret was very sweet, helpful and quick to respond.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect!

Really nice clean unit. Perfect for my needs.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020

About the host

Hosted by margret mercieca

Host profile image
Something about me, I've spent 40 years as a manager at Costco and I've learned a lot about service. Treat your customers right and they come back again and again.

I fell in love with traveling many years ago. Traveling awakens my soul and the experiences along the way are priceless. If you are traveling from 100 miles or from across the country, it's nice to find a place that makes you feel like you can relax after a full day of exploring. It's the attention to little details that make the difference. I've spent many evenings sharing a glass of wine with my guests exchanging travel stories.

Backyard design has always been another passion of mine and you'll see once you step inside my private oasis. Never knew how much color you can see in the desert. Bougainville thrives here and the colors are so bold and expressive.

Pull out the bottle of wine and enjoy the carefully cultivated experience you'll find at The Margarette.

Why they chose this property

Neighborhood is quiet and centrally located in one of the best location in the desert. Never settle for ordinary, California living at it's best.

What makes this property unique

Home was built in 1948 and has been carefully preserved. It's so tranquil and colorful that it really puts you in a Zen place. So close to the heart of everything you would come to the desert for. You can walk to El Paseo, the Rodeo Drive of the desert. Mall is 3 miles away, La Quinta Tennis Gardens 3 miles away. Shuttles to Coachella and Stagecoach 1 mile away. Palm Springs 20 miles away. Living Desert 3 miles away. And you really feel like your in a resort. I LOVE IT HERE.

Languages:

English

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