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The Margarette: A 1948 Desert Zen Retreat 🌴

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

A swimming pool with lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by a patio area with plants and a building in the background.
Property video
A garden pathway leading to a house with a white facade, surrounded by lush greenery and flowering plants.
A wooden dining table with woven placemats, a wine bottle, and glasses on a tiled floor.
A compact living space with a kitchenette, a bed with patterned bedding, a coffee maker, and a painting on the wall.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
Situated in the heart of the city, this villa accommodates 2 guests. It features 1 outdoor pool and 1 hot tub. Enjoy water views and a deck, porch, and patio for outdoor relaxation. Engage in birdwatching, game walks, and rock climbing nearby, with El Paseo Shopping District and Vintage Club as attractions.

Highlights

  • The great outdoors

    Guests love the outdoor space here.

  • Firepit available

    One of the few properties with a dedicated outdoor firepit.

  • Centrally-located

    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.

  • Discover nearby landmarks

    Near El Paseo Shopping District
1 bedroom0+ bathroomsSleeps 2

Popular amenities

  • Private pool
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue grill
  • Hot tub on site
  • Onsite parking available
  • Patio

Explore the area

View in a map
Palm Desert, CA
  • Place, El Paseo Shopping District
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Vintage Club
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Place, The Gardens on El Paseo
    ‪17 min walk‬
  • Airport, Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.)
    ‪35 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. ✨

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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

Property # 1694821vb
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
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Palm Desert

Located in South Palm Desert, a neighbourhood in Palm Desert, this villa is near a water park. McCallum Theatre and Coachella Valley Repertory Theater are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Empire Polo Club and Spa Esmeralda. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Indian Wells Tennis Garden or Agua Caliente Casino. Practise your golf swing on a nearby course, or enjoy other activities in the great outdoors, such as mountain biking, hiking and rock climbing in the area.
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Map
Palm Desert, CA

What's nearby

  • El Paseo Shopping District - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Vintage Club - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
  • The Gardens on El Paseo - 17 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Palma Village Park - 3 min drive - 1.2 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

  • ‪The Hideout Kitchen + Bar - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪Del Taco - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Keedy's Fountain Grill - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar - ‬15 min walk

Frequently asked questions

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

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

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 a 10-minute walk of San Jacinto Mountains and El Paseo Shopping District. The Gardens on El Paseo and Living Desert Zoo and Gardens 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. 32 out of 34 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 34 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 34 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 34 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 34 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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The unit was cozy and cute. It contained everything you needed including some bottled water and snacks. The place has authentic character. Very impressed.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Thank you Margret for your amazing Gem of a casita. We really enjoyed it. Communication was excellent you were able to answer all our questions. We will definitely come back.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Perfect location

Everything was great 👍
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Fantastic, well appointed room, professionally run. We had an amazing time in Palm Desert staying at this location. Great communication from the host, the room had everything we needed, and very close to anything we needed. The bed was super comfy, the host checked in to see if we needed anything, and the kitchenette was well stocked. I would not hesitate to stay there again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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

Wonderful stay!

The place is beautiful, charming and quiet and welcoming. We had a perfect stay, and enjoyed the many amenities from Netflix to the refrigerator to the beautiful stone rain shower and the lovely gardens. The location was very convenient for our local family activities, and it was easy to find. Highly recommended...we’d stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2019
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Such a lovely place! Has everything you need to chill out. Sprouts and Albertsons close 3 minute drive. Greeted with champagne and snacks. The shower and pool were amazing! Very comfortable unit for two with a well stocked kitchen and king bed. Golfing close by. Would definitely rent again!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host was amazing and accommodating! We loved it so much we extended our stay one more day!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
M is definitely the hostess with the mostess. She provided clear communication before my trip that helped me prep before my arrival. She was so considerate leaving snacks and water for guests. This quiet and beautiful property is just what I needed to reset and reinvigorate. Its location is perfect with local eateries and shops so close by. I will be back, highly recommend for any solo traveler!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location and exactly what we wanted. Would stay here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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.

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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