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Korakia Pensione Historic Villa Bed & Breakfast
Categories: Event Planning & Services Hotels Hotels & Travel Hotels Hotels & Travel Bed & Breakfast Hotels, Bed & Breakfast [Edit]
257 S Patencio RdPalm Springs, CA 92262
(760) 864-6411
- Hours:
Mon-Thu, Sun 8 am - 9 pm
Fri-Sat 8 am - 11 pm
- Price Range:
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$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
$115 for $150 Certificate
Linda C. said: "My sister and I just got back from our second trip to this place. It won't be our last. Miracle Springs is only a 2 hr flight from dreary Seattle and…" read more »
59 reviews for Korakia Pensione Historic Villa Bed & Breakfast
Review Highlights
"There is a BACI ball court- which we made great use of and..."
(in 4 reviews)
"Your stay includes delicious breakfast every morning."
(in 5 reviews)
"The whole experience was relaxing and revitalizing."
(in 20 reviews)
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59 reviews in English
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Review from Shane S.
Los Angeles, CA
1/19/2012
Went on fly to Palm Springs MLK weekend w/ no hotel reservations. No vacancies=yelp it=found this place, called and booked w/o seeing.
Place is in its own class...really doesnt fit in my opinion, into B&B category, and thats good!
Place is amazing, very well done (every inch). Beautiful, not New Agey, and nowhere close to the typical country pillowy/doyley bed and breakfast crap I despise.
Rooms are simple yet eloquent, clean and refreshing.
Place is quiet, even in morning. Staff and guest dont wake you up w/ noise.
Pool area, fire pit, holly cow...very well done....great water temp at night...perfect.
Lanterns, fountains, they play old movies and foreign---very cool, hip, but not hipsterish.
Food was great...and they even served lunch, tasty, simple...flavorful. OJ awesome, and fresh oranges...yum. Tea yum, coffee very good. A lot of places F/U on the coffee, never could fig that.
All the girls, were sweethearts...professional. Also not your typical young kids that have the "this is just temp, and you suck" attitude.
The Moroccan style structure is unique, and amazing. Old building.
Love the old cat....im not a cat person, but she was cool....a fixture there.
Place is awesome.
Minus:
Tough to find here, but shut the lights out at night. Beautiful there in the desert. Let all nature filter through, no light pollution. The lighting was a little too much coming into our room at night (Sahara). If people/guest cant manage, get em a flashlight...ha ha (lantern).
Bed was squeaky. But I liked the woodiness of it. Like any B&B, the bedroom noise might be heard. -
Review from mariel v.
12/23/2011 13 photos
I was fortunate enough to be a part of a wedding that took place at Korakia Pensione. The groom and groom (That's right. Prop 8 be damned!) rented out the entire resort for their wedding party and guests, and it was a great way to enjoy the place. Each room and villa is unique and lovely. It is Moroccan themed, and the design and decor of the entire resort really stayed true to the theme. You really feel as if you're on a little getaway. No TV's, no landline phones.
I stayed in the Bedouin Suite, which was poolside, and came with a full kitchen equipped with a full size fridge, coffeemaker, etc. There was also a little living area, and a hot tub in the bedroom area, as well as a private patio. The bed was so comfortable, I fell asleep almost immediately after my head hit the pillow.
As it is a B&B, breakfast was provided every morning (until 10am, I believe), and it wasn't just toast and jam, it was the real deal eggs and bacon, etc. The coffee was delicious (I believe it was Peet's, but I could be wrong), and I kept going back for more. The staff was really lovely and helpful, and they also provide some bikes for little trips into town. Truth be told, "town" is only a short walk away.
Other than the fact that I was there to celebrate the wedding of two good friends, the fact that it was at Korakia made it all the more special. I will definitely plan on staying there again in the future. -
Review from Ryan D.
Los Angeles, CA
11/2/2011
This place is amazing! Not a scene like other places in town. No Ed Hardy / bikini chicks fist pumping to LMFAO while sipping from solo cups in an STD ridden pool.
This is the only place I'll stay in Palm Springs from now on. My wife and I stayed here 3 nights for our 5th anniversary. We booked the Aegean Bungalow on the Mediterranean side. I highly recommend the room or at least that side of the property as it was very quiet. No phones or televisions in the rooms. Great breakfast every morning. Hit a grocery store on the way in and stock up on booze and some food as that room in particular has a full size fridge. Walking distance to Palm Canyon for dinner. Book now! -
Review from Ashley L.
San Diego, CA
Updated - 10/11/2011
Another wonderful stay at the Korakia this weekend! This place is so fantastic. It really feels like you are staying at a friend's home as opposed to a hotel. The staff is great and is there to meet any need that you might have.
I hesitate to keep raving about this place though because it is going to get too crowded! But they deserve the props!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/7/2011
I LOVE the Korakia. They saved us from the HORRIBLE Palm Springs Hilton during our anniversary… Read more »
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Review from Jena S.
Minneapolis, MN
11/3/2011
Gorgeous little hide away in Palm Springs! A girlfriend and I take a trip once a year to celebrate our birthdays; this B&B had everything that we were looking for; pool, bikes, walking distance to restaurants, hiking, and beautiful surroundings! The orange trees in front made it extra special. The property had special little benches and sitting/laying areas in so many locations.
I would love to give it a higher rate, but there was a gliche when we checked in. We weren't initially greeted and when someone did greet us, they could've find our reservations. We pulled out our email communication and we figured that they had us checking in the following day. Luckily out room was available, but they still needed to clean it. We ended up sitting by the pool while they prepared our room. Aside from the first hiccup, it was definitely a delightful stay! -
Review from Erika S.
Los Angeles, CA
10/25/2011
OK, listen, I travel a LOT. I've stayed in hundreds of hotels all over the world. I'm telling you, and I have a lot of experience in the matter, the Korakia is, by far, the most amazing place I have ever stayed.
Firstly, rooms. We stayed in the Bedouin Suite. I love the no tv's, no clocks, no phones. It's utter relaxation and just forces you to stop, slow down, and enjoy the company of who-ever special person you are there with. The gorgeous stone tub with windows opening to the private patio was pure luxury. Everything is minimalist and thoughtful.
Pool - the pool is perfect, it's open 24hrs for late night swims, there's fires and candles everywhere at night, during the day there's lot's of sunny or shady spots, flowers everywhere, fluffy towels, and wait for the best part - BYOB! We brought some of our favorite white and they brought us wine glasses and an ice bucket. DREAMY!
Service - I don't even know how to express how amazing this staff is. Dear Korakia owners, you SCORED. This staff is truly exceptional. Every need is anticipated and taken care of. You don't feel like you are at a hotel with paid employees, you feel like you are staying in your friends guest house. Every single employee is so sincere and lovely, and SO on top of everything without ever being seen unless you want to see them. It's like they are fairies or something. We would come home in the evening and find cheese platters and chilled wine, or strawberries and chocolate with candles and rose petals all over our living room, i mean SERIOUSLY? Don't get me wrong the grounds are basically like staying in a dream, but there are a lot of gorgeous hotels in the world. There are not, however, very many gorgeous hotels with a staff this f-ing amazing. Best. Hotel. Ever. Thank you for the most incredible, relaxing, beautiful, lovely, delicious, and special weekend ever.
I plan on going back, like 4 times a year at least. I can't imagine ever staying anywhere else in Palm Springs. -
Review from Karen L.
Irvine, CA
12/9/2011
I just returned from the most relaxing weekend ever at Korakia Pensione, and felt like I was thousands of miles away from home! The grounds are magical, the staff wonderful, the breakfast delicious! Take advantage of the Sunday morning yoga - and be sure to book a massage!
The rooms have more character than any place I have ever stayed, or at least anywhere in the US. It felt more like Europe, but Palm Canyon is a mere two blocks away. -
Review from Alison O.
Santa Monica, CA
11/19/2011
I used to stay at Korakia.
Initially I loved it but then a few things accumulated into a general feeling of needing to find new options:
After 3 or 4 visits, I noticed a pattern which was that I never could get a good nights sleep there, due to the bed being so damn uncomfortable. We used to stay at what is now called the Bedouin Suite. It had a Queen bed that was lumpy and soft. I loved the room otherwise, the Hot tub and the private patio. Also loved the seclusion in the pool.
At least twice the water ran cold when we filled the hot tub. Like on the first night we arrived, not due to using it all day or anything. That was annoying - we'd end up heating saucepans of hot water in the kitchen to fill the hot tub, before it was deep enough to get in.
I once used the oven in the kitchen in the Bedouin suite back in '07 or '08. Went back to check on the food about 40 mins later (it was a chicken and should have cooked for at least 90 mins). When I opened the door to the room, thick smoke wafted me in the face. The whole room was filled with smoke. My boyfriend saw the smoke wafting out from the other side of the pool, jumped up to come to my help, slipped on the decking, fell and cut his foot.
The whole room was frighteningly filled with smoke! It was scary, I thought the room was on fire.
But no smoke alarm had gone off!!
Turned out the cooker in the kitchen was unusable (so why offer a kitchen with an oven then?). The whole place was so smoky we had to move to another room. We moved to the Orchard house, which was nice of them, although our last night had been ruined by the fright-factor and then the need to pack everything up and unpack it again. They may even have given us a partial refund, I don't recall the specifics but I do remember the manager at the time handled it very well.
I always found the breakfast to be disappointing. The food looked and tasted like it was cooked by an amateur. We often skipped it and went out instead.
In summary, I like this place but felt there were some areas that could have been improved - like new matresses, better cook, bigger water tank for rooms with hot tubs. -
Review from Wes S.
Santa Monica, CA
1/4/2012
This is a great place for a quiet vacation. During my visit the staff was simply amazing (cheerful and helpful). The pool is open 24 hours for a dip whenever the mood strikes. No phones or televisions in the rooms. Most rooms have a "kitchenette" (a coffee pot and a small refrigerator). If you plan on cooking you may want to call in and verify if your room has a stove top burner.
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Review from Todd G.
Toluca Lake, CA
6/18/2011 10 photos
If you are looking for a secluded place to stay in PS and just unwind, this is it. Oh, and let me say it's one of the most romantic places you will ever find this far inland, so bring someone you love.
I can go on and on about this place but you really have to see for yourself. Plan ahead, rooms are tough to book. The Bedouin Suite was wonderful, and so was the service. Stayed in the Nomad Suite next door as well when we extended our stay for another night. It was nice too, but preferred the Bedouin. No TV's or telephones adds to the seclusion and charm of this pensione. Plan at least a 3 night stay, you will thank me.
The only thing they need to do is make the grounds non-smoking, or at least designated smoking areas. That is why I did not give it 5 stars.
Overall it was unforgettable. -
Review from lavender c.
Topanga Canyon, CA
12/25/2011
Bad intense overwhelming Pinesol fumes all afternoon and evening from room cleaning, and wrong size bath stopper that didn't fit when I tried to take a bath. Nice receptionists and quaint romantic place. Should be better maintained for the price and reputation. But complained to manager and did get compensation. Very beautiful and relaxing and walking distance to restaurants.
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Review from lindsay s.
Surprise, AZ
9/13/2011
I started off in love with Korakia. My boyfriend and I went about a month ago for a family member's wedding and from the start I thought there was a certain charm to the place. The wedding and accommodations were beautiful. As a note, the entire Mediterranean side was booked by the wedding party and guests-- all close family and friends. Given this, I think we were all a little more lax about our belongings, also paired with the fact that they had a security guard on the grounds at night. Mistakenly, I left a pair of expensive sunglasses on a table by the pool and another family left their DSLR camera near where we had gathered for dinner. Also, we had borrowed the hotel's telescope and that had been left out overnight as well. Talk about a surprise to us when none of our personal items were there the next morning. The hotel staff was very dismissive of our losses until they realized their pricey telescope was also missing-- THEN they called the police. Conveniently, no one could get ahold of the security guard and when he finally came back to work, he said that he had left early that night and hadn't seen any of our belongings.
My point here isn't to place blame because I obviously know I must take part of the responsibility for leaving my sunglasses out on a table overnight. However, the entire time, the staff never apologized, was incredibly rude and dismissive about it and just generally not helpful. They never once offered any sort of compensation for myself or for the poor family who lost their camera-- something much much more valuable. I left my name and phone number and asked them to have the manager call me after I checked out, since she wasn't working at the time, and I never received any call from them. Overall, I felt like there was little concern for their guests and only concern for their lost telescope. What should have been a secure area, patrolled by a security guard, was either trespassed upon in the very early hours of the morning or, more likely, a member of the staff took our things. What a disappointment and a damper on what should have been a wonderful weekend. -
Review from Dana R.
Bainbridge Island, WA
Updated - 3/15/2011
Okay, I finally found a room I love -- the Nomad Suite. Although it still only has a Queen bed, it's not recessed so it doesn't feel quite as claustrophic to me. The day bed in the living room is fabulous -- it sits between the fireplace and the French doors and the tables are high enough that you can actually use them.
The kitchen area in this suite is much better (but still tired) than in the other suite we stayed in (the Bedouin Suite). The frig was still noisy but it kept the food cold. This time we stayed for 4 days and did go shopping, so it was important that the food stay cold.
The water pressure in this room is also not lacking ... but at least it's a shower/tub so there's somewhere to stick your head to get away from the spray to wash your hair!
The weather was beautiful so we kept our French doors open all the time - you lose a little privacy, but it's so nice to have the breeze and listen to the waterfall.
On this trip we found Espresso Cielo (about 3 blocks away) - much better than Starbucks for lattes.
The inn's wireless internet signal still sucks - but this time I had with me my new Verizon (yay!!!) Iphone 4 which is also a mobile hotspot, so I didn't have any connectivity issues.
One more point, even though they say they don't allow children under 13 or pets, the manager does from time to time make exceptions to both policies. I was sitting at the pool enjoying a nice quiet afternoon while our room was being readied when two couples each with children under 13 arrived to check in -- their children weren't ill-behaved, just noisy as children generally are. I inquired about where the families with children were staying and it was in an area near where our room was to be. The staff was very accomodating in moving us elsewhere (across the road to the Morrocan side of the inn) and truthfully, we didn't see or hear the children during our stay.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/1/2011
An oddly charming place; the kind where you might find an author or artist in residence. We have… Read more »
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Review from Amy S.
I first discovered Korakia through a friend's Facebook photos from their trip and the pictures alone were enough to take me straight to the website and book the next available weekend I had open. No joke. Luckily my husband was turning 32 and because he's not the type to normally get excited over "another day, another year" I decided it was time he looked forward to birthday fun!
I booked the Limnos Room for us because it looked super cool and my budget at the time was not as big as I would have wanted it to be on such a spur the moment impulse vacation. As soon as the reservations were secured I was counting down the days until Korakia!
The distance from San Diego was no where near as far as I thought it would be and was very serene to come up through the desert and get a change of scenery. Upon arriving at Korakia, the girls who checked us in were very sweet and escorted us to our room on the Mediterranean side. I was very impressed with the walk through tour and fell in the love with the beautiful grounds.
Our room ( a few slight gripes ) was a lot smaller than I thought it would be from what the pictures showed, but I learned to love it after I realized the cool exposed beam ceilings, slate flooring, and very clean looking lines. There were no hangers to hang up our nicer clothes which was a bit of a downer but we managed with the hat rack that was in our room. My husband at least three different occasions smacked his shin into the frame that the bed sits on and while painful for him, Limnos Room added some hilarious memories. In the evenings little black bugs would be all over the floor and curtains, but they're probably just trying to escape the heat of the desert nights. Another thing that I thought could have been improved was the shower was the size of a phone booth, not suitable for two as the rest of Korakia caters to. Unless you find romance by not letting the shower curtain stick to either one of you! If the bracket that suspends the curtain around the shower was moved back just an inch or two, it would make all the difference! And the Queen bed took adjusting too on our own level because we're used to a Cal-King at home and our regular space configurations were seriously messed with. Bed could have been a little more comfortable.
Griping over. We were on vacation! The bath products everyone raved about, oh, my goodness! Smells amazing! Our bathroom had the coolest sink in it that I'd love to try to model our house after one day! The french doors opening out to our semiprivate patio were also beautiful and although we never got a chance to lounge out on the chairs outside I definitely thought of it! The air conditioner in the room works awesome! Comfortable sleeping for sure!!! The rest of Korakia was fantastic, the heated pool was gorgeous for late night swims, 24 hour pool to be exact! Just don't step on the slate too close to the fire decorations, you'll burn yourself as my husband learned! One of my most favorite things about the pool situation was the daybed which we almost fell asleep on a few times relaxing out on the warm summer night! The old movies are cool to lay out on the deck set up and relax, the fire pit is beautiful, and the boccie ball court rocks! We'd walk over to the Moroccan side at night to lay out by their fire pit outdoor lounge! So beautiful! I don't think there is a room at Korakia I'd turn my nose at. Both sides of the Pensione are equally beautiful in their own way.
Korakia knows how to do breakfast too! The french toast was fantastic! Make sure you get a shady spot because the morning sun is intensely hot!
The entire time we stayed here we never felt like our privacy was invaded. Korakia is a great couples retreat as their brochure boasts it is considered one of the sexiest hotels in America. That it is!
Another favorite thing about Korakia is the proximity to the downtown section of Palm Springs! As we were the only carburetted car in the entire city visiting naturally old cars get very temperamental and refuse to work when they decide to quit. Our El Camino said, enough is enough! and forced us to walk to Matchbox Pizza which in the end we were thankful for! Walking distance from a gorgeous bed and breakfast to all the shops is a huge plus to Korakia.
If we didn't have a limit to when we had to be back at work, I think we definitely would have booked a third night to stay! Hopefully we can come back in October with some friends of ours and check out another room!
Korakia leaves you dreamy and checks you out of reality for those few days. Highly recommend staying here!Listed in: It Was Love, Spoil Yourself, If You Ain't Got No Money Take…, Palm Springs
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Review from alexa m.
Portland, OR
9/29/2011
The Korakia just received a best of the west in Sunset Magazine. And they deserve it!
Simultaneously, luxurious and rustic, the Korakia rightly calls itself a "pensione." With only 28 rooms in all, it's a far cry from the sprawling and trendy spa/hotels that populate the Palm Spring's landscape. This tiny retreat with its funky elegance offers an array of unique experiences as varied as the visitors who've discovered this gem. There's privacy and escape for those who want to disappear; a sense of awe and wonder for the first-time visitor; and the shared knowledge of a well-kept secret among the numerous returning guests.
Like the rooms, no two visits to the Korakia are the same. In true Zen-like fashion, it is what you make of it. A romantic getaway. A good night's rest. An evening spent floating in the pool into wee hours of the night, swapping stories and sharing travel suggestions with other interesting guests. Or waking up from a midday nap in the sun and spying a friendly snake with the same idea.
http://www.52perfectda... -
Review from Rachelanne G.
Pasadena, CA
7/15/2011
How much can I possibly love a hotel? This pretty much is as good as it gets in my book.
We are leaving in a few hours to escape "Carmageddon" and make it "Karmageddon" by ditching out early to our favorite hidden treasure, Korakia Pensione. This is our third visit, and I cannot imagine staying anywhere else in PS....or even why I would GO to PS if this was not the destination.
Both times, our room has been lovely. Rustic and elegant and romantic. The staff is AMAZING - I think they found the lovliest girls that live in PS and hired them all here. The mint tea upon arrival is perfect to cure that inital slap of dry heat that assaults you when you first open your car door. Later of course, you adapt, and the lovely pool(s) is the perfect place to lounge your day away.
This visit, we booked massages, and we made sure to reserve a table at our favorite PS restaurant, Johannes, which, like everything else, is walking distance. It is however, off of the main strip by a couple of blocks, keeping the noise and bustle of the downtown area safely away from your chill-time.
No stuffy hotel rules here. The pool is open all night, drinks are allowed poolside, and all they (and those of us that love "them") ask is that you be respectful of the grounds and your neighbors. The honor system in perfect working order.
All I really want to know is...what movie will we have this weekend??? Korakia - I am counting the minutes!!!!! -
Review from Alejandra T.
Beverly Hills, CA
6/28/2011
The service here is amazing. The place will blow your mind away. This place is so romantic and so low key, it will certainly amaze you. Make sure you take advantage of all they have to offer, ie, orange flavored water poolside, morroccan tea, freshly squeezed orange juice, the hotel coffee, the outdoor movies). Some of the highlights of this place would have to be the morroccan tea which they serve at 6 pm daily and the freshly squeezed orange juice they have in the mornings. Just when I thought I was checking out of a great hotel, I received an email from the General Manager who asked how could they make the place any better. Wow? I don't think I've ever had service like at Korakia.
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Review from Joy V.
Venice, CA
5/3/2011
Where do I begin?? We loved this place very much... so much we booked an extra night. We did not want to leave. The staff was very friendly and helpful. For example- after checking in, one of the kind ladies escorted us to our room. There are so many little tender details about this place. They serve complimentary breakfast in bed (day 1: french toast w fruit, day 2 scrambled eggs w english muffins.. both with a glass of OJ). They serve tea with cookies (FYI: the best tea I've ever had ) in the afternoon , also fruit on a stick. In the evenings they show classic movies on a projector ... this is done outside so you get the stars as your background. For dinner we had this french restaurant Le Vellauris deliver.... so YUMMY... we recommend getting the Lobster ravioli!! I can go on and on about this place ....We came here to relax and we accomplished that!
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Review from doug b.
Sacramento, CA
6/26/2011
This is one of my favorite hotels ever. Charming and laid back. We stayed here during the week, so I'm not sure what it's like on weekends. I loved swimming in the warm pool at night, floating and watching the stars with my husband. They serve a great breakfast in the morning out in the courtyard. We enjoyed our lazy breakfasts leisurely leafing through the paper every morning. The hotel also offers complimentary bikes. We cruised around old P.S. in the mornings before it go too hot. It's been a while since we stayed here and it's time to get back there soon.
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Review from ashley a.
5/29/2011
All I can say is wowzer or maybe bowchicka wowow !!!!! Go with someone you love or someone you really like and enjoy. It can easily be Xmas every day and Valentines every night here.
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Review from kiomi k.
Gardena, CA
4/2/2011
Very original. Very beautiful. Secluded. Quiet. Well kept. Professional staff.
There are two sides to this bed and breakfast. The Mediterranean side and Moroccan side. The Mediterranean side is nicer and more quiet in my opinion. The pool is bigger on this side. The lobby is on the Moroccan side. More foot traffic. We stayed in the acropolis suite which is the almost the farthest from the pool. This is nice because of how quiet it is and also it's only 28 seconds walking distance to the pool.
Your stay includes delicious breakfast every morning. A fruit snack the staff comes around with every afternoon and refreshing basil orange water all around the property.
This place is a five minute walk to the main palm canyon strip. San jacinto mountains directly behind you. It's so relaxing. Def a get away to just chill by the pool or in your dope room. Every room is different.
Only con is that it's frickin expensive. But I'd def come back -
Review from Tracy R.
Beverly Hills, CA
5/30/2010 1 Check-in Here
I love this place...it is peaceful and so relaxing...The owners are so sweet and it feels so down to earth. It's the exact opposite of the mid century obvious palm springs experience which makes it so great! It doesn't try to be cool or a scene, it's just a quiet getaway. It's this mediterranean mix of Greece and Morocco architecture and design.
The rooms are so charming and rustic with all of the old furniture and the bathrooms. Cozy. Each room has it's own patio too. It's a great value. Because it's all one story and spread out you feel like you have privacy too. I love the white walls everywhere - it's feels clean and simple. There are many places to sit and relax outside too.
They have a yummy breakfast each morning, drinks in the evening. Movies that play or yoga that can be done. Bikes to rent and 2 pools. Walking distance of downtown palm springs but still so far away too...
It's just a wonderful place - so peaceful and lovely... -
Review from Adam X.
San Francisco, CA
8/21/2008
I was here in the spring of 07 and it is with all honestly a haven for LA peeps that need a break from the traffic and smog.
I flew in from SF to Ontario and drove the rest of the way (in a suit of all things). I'm not sure why i wore a suit to PS, but when I walked up through the archway, the cutest girl looks up at me and my well dressed executive gal friend and says... oh... my. you're so well dressed. um... Welcome to Korakia".
Needless to say, we were escorted to our beautiful Bungalow on the Moroccan side, with a huge kitchen, large living beautifully appointed, and a bedroom with king bed that must have been 5' off the ground on a stacked tile platform. We actually had to crawl up to it. But of course... it was worth it.
I'm not sure we left the poolside all day. They play relaxing music and will bring you wine, Panini's, whatever you'd like. Smoking is allowed, and that kept us chill in 2 chaise's in front of the Bungalow until dinner time. We did the uptown grill for dinner and my fav Blue Cheese Stuffed Filet Mignon, but the accommodations were so pleasant, we really looked forward to get back to our room (and the resort). I guess there are a lot of places you can stay that aren't inviting, but that is what sets Korakia apart from the 3 stars... its Pure Pleasure.
It's kind of fortunate for me that I have a cousin 1 block from here, and a girlfriend a 1/2 block, so I have accommodations locally. So I may never stay here again... but until all that changes, or the new owners of Korakia change the pricing drastically, I will keep it in mind for my first choice when vacationing in PS.
I just looked for a weekend room... and they were booked through November (and its only August!!!). -
Review from Lan T.
Los Angeles, CA
5/17/2011
My fiance and I love this place so much we're getting married here and we're super excited to share it with the people we love. It's beautiful, it's unique...just a lovely destination. Some of our favorite details from our last visit in September: lounging by the pool and being offered lavendar scented cooling towels one day, fruity popsicles on another; picking limes from a tree on the property to make our own mojitos; yummy breakfasts inside our courtyard; spending whole days in the water--from pool to private jacuzzi to bathtub to jacuzzi to pool :) We look forward to our annual pilgramage.
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Review from Tisha V.
Los Angeles, CA
7/15/2009 10 photos
Heaven
Heavenly
Heavenliest!
To be continued... -
Review from Helen Y.
Pacific Heights, San Francisco, CA
1/27/2006 9 photos
I can't think of a more romantic place to stay while visiting Palm Springs. Just behind Korakia lies a breathtaking backdrop of the San Jacinto mountains. In the evening, the firepits add a sense of calmness to an already peaceful sanctuary.
The arid climate and Korakia's ambiance makes you feel like you've just been transported to Morocco.
Each room is unique and there are no tvs (that's a good thing)!
You can request breakfast brought to your room or eat in the front courtyard overlooking a fountain and murals. -
Review from David C.
Los Angeles, CA
12/10/2008 2 photos
Stayed in early December 2008. When I make any kind of recommendation I try to take into account the person/personality that I am recommending to.
Given this, I'm not sure there is anybody I know to which I would not recommend a weekend at Korakia.
Here's why:
1. Two sides to the place: Mediterranean and Moroccan. I have never been to either of these locations abroad, so I cannot speak to authenticity, but I it doesn't feel like it is trying to be something it is not.
2. Each room/suite is unique. Different layouts and different decor, but from room to room still enough common design to tie everything together. Our unit (the Limnos Room), as well as most of the others, was double door accessible making it possible for indoor-outdoors continuity that is so nice to enjoy in the California desert clime.
3. Very friendly, but unobtrusive staff. A number of them have worked there for more than a few years and as such seemed like they were tending their own home/property for maximal hospitality.
4. All along the grounds are strategically placed seating arrangements accompanied usually by an appropriately sized table or fire-pit, but there is also a bocce-ball court and lounging platform complete with pillows for watching movie that was projected onto a wall every evening. Some of the random tables have baskets of fruit on them.
5. Morning brewed coffee was quite good and breakfast was soooo tasty. For us was (Sat) Strawberry Frenchtoast and (Sun) Huevos Rancheros.
6. Moroccan mint tea served in the entry-way every evening with cookies and fruit.
7. The grounds cat, "Badness", was friendly, picture-amenable, and a good model when looking for cues on how fully enjoy the weekend.
We only left Korakia once the whole weekend to borrow the bikes for a ride. Otherwise, the B&B was all we needed to enjoy. -
Review from Ryan M.
Baltimore, MD
2/19/2009
Our friends sometimes give my gf and I looks of puzzlement when we tell them we are about to spend the weekend in Palm Springs -- again. Well, this place is the reason we go. When we feel like we need a relaxing weekend somewhere, Korakia is usually the first place that comes to mind.
The rooms are all unique, with varying levels of luxury (and price), but we find ourselves wanting to spend time in even the small ones . This isn't a generic luxury hotel or stuffy victorian b&b: The rooms have a tendency to make you sort of feel like you are staying in the guest house of your coolest relative. Interesting art, beautiful furniture, vintage books, games -- and snacks -- are in all the rooms. The grounds have a tranquil simplicity to them, with nice pools, a bocce ball court, and an area where they screen films (usually foreign) at night.
The staff is among the most attentive, friendliest, and overall most effective of any I have encountered, including at places that have been far more expensive.
Korakia probably won't be the ritziest place you ever stay, but it may make for one of your happiest experiences. After a little while here, you feel like you are a million miles away from anything. -
Review from Suzy C.
Los Angeles, CA
5/25/2009
We just got back from spending Memorial Day weekend at Korakia and I'm already looking for an excuse to go back. It was beyond amazing.
We reserved a room for the weekend, but there was a mix-up with our reservation. They saw the note that it was a belated birthday celebration for me and upgraded us to their best unit, the Orchard House.
Clearly, all of the amenities were over the top (well, beside the dated appliances) but it was more than just that. This place had so much charm and comfort that you never wanted to leave. We just oozed from one room to the next, taking breakfast on the patio, reading in the living room with the giant glass door swiveled open, snacking in the shade under the tree, and finishing the evening with a soak in the private Jacuzzi surrounded by tea-light lanterns.
Beyond the room, Korakia has some amazing amenities, including the poolside movie and the morning breakfast service. On both Saturday and Sunday morning, I also did the yoga in the main building. There is nothing like doing Sun Salutation with the sun shining on you and looking up at San Jacinto Mountain. The instructor accommodated all skill levels, everything to a self-proclaimed expert to a pregnant woman to true first-timers.
The whole experience was relaxing and revitalizing. I can't wait to return. -
Review from Emma R.
Seattle, WA
3/15/2009
I can not say enough good things about Korakia. When you step foot on the grounds you just take a deep sigh of relief, you know that you are about to have an amazingly relaxed time. The staff is some of the best I have ever encountered, extremely friendly and you really get the feeling that they love what they do.
The rooms themselves are terrific. Stone floors, heavenly beds, complimentary snacks, a heater for when it gets chilly at night, and light linen curtains to give you some privacy but that will not shut out all of the sunshine.
Korakia has some services that you should definitely not miss out on. Their pools (there are two) are always warm and refreshing, on the weekends they offer yoga classes outside, you are able to get a message or other spa treatments in the comfort of your own room, they have bikes that you can take out whenever you want (they are great to ride around on while exploring some of the great architecture that Palm Springs has to offer), and every morning there is a complimentary breakfast that is terrific. You can eat out on their sun bathed patio or they can bring it right to your room.
Every time I think about my stay at Korakia I can't help but smile and wish I was right back there. If you want a truly relaxing get away go to Korakia. You will not be disappointed by a single aspect of it. Guaranteed. -
Review from Mitchell S.
Los Angeles, CA
5/10/2010
I think Korakia is the next best thing to being in Greece! I love it here and am torn between keeping it a secret and letting everyone in on my favorite home away from home.
From a design standpoint it's got the rustic ambiance of a foriegn resort...but it's also got an L.A. vibe. The layout (which was inherited) works well and you don't feel like you're crowded.
It's quaint, relaxing and the best part is that you don't need to socialize if all you want is recharge (I like the Orchard Room for it's privacy).
The scenery is beautiful; between the Bougainvillea, palm trees, mountains and water, you'll feel like you're in a Morroccan villa.
The staff girls are "hot" in their white smocks and Paulette is a gracious hostess...
This place rocks....just don't tell anybody. -
Review from Denise Michelle S.
New York, NY
My partner and i just returned from the Korakia for a much needed weekend vacation. Oh Korakia...I will forever be indebted to you! As you are the first and only location my partner has ever been able to actually relax and for the FIRST time, he did not pick-up his blackberry for consecutive days- he even put on trunks and went into the pool! I literally ran around in my bikini all weekend and have no idea why we packed actual clothes (this mentioned in a non-perv way). Swimsuits, a cover-up/wrap, a tooth brush and a razor is really all one needs here.
The rooms are wonderful - NO TV, NO CLOCKS, NO PHONES, NO RADIOS!!!! :-) Our room had a kitchen and we were able to bring fresh fruit, nuts, drinks and cheese. The grounds are so traquil. Both pools are perfect for lounging in or around all day. There is a BACI ball court- which we made great use of and there are classic movies which are shown nightly. Oooooooo.....the iced tea, served throughout the day, is so yummy you'll forget to eat!
The staff are incredibly sweet and, although one can easily forget they are there, are very attentive!
We will definitely be back, but I don't think it will be soon enough! -
Review from Danielle D.
Encinitas, CA
8/29/2009
I'm in love with this place... there is no question that we will be back, and even get the same room. Yes - the furniture is old - but that goes with the style of the resort. The grounds are simply beautiful and get even better at night with the candles and lanterns. The perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle!
The staff was so friendly and even made my boyfriend a latte each morning with breakfast!
I missed the morning yoga because I slept in. How could you not in the quite room surrounded by trees... ahh - heaven! And each room is so different! We made friends at the pool and we did a big room tour so we could see the differences in each room... they all had their own little charms!
I will and have recommended this place to my friends. And we will be back... hopefully sooner than later!! -
Review from Minyung L.
Cerritos, CA
1/17/2010
Relaxing, calm. Perfect getaway.
MOROCCAN TEA at the lobby, refreshing!
Ultra friendly STAFF, will deliver breakfast to your room.
Nicely sized POOL.
DAMANA bath products, looks like L'Occitane. -
Review from Lars H.
Los Angeles, CA
10/8/2007
This place has new owners and I am not too optimistic about what they are doing - adding a bar, redesigning the new part of the hotel. Make sure you stay at the old part, not the new - the old part is still very nice, the new part is not!
Apart from that warning, service was good, the room was good, bring food, wine and pretend you are in morocco or somewhere - do NOT venture into town ;) -
Review from Tiff F.
Los Angeles, CA
6/18/2011
Loved loved loved this place! My boyfriend and I usually stay at del marco's (which is great and fun), but if you want a romantic trip this is the place to be. They triple booked our room but we lucked out- they upgraded us to the naish house. Beautiful bed, bookshelf, kitchen, dining room, and vaulted wood beamed ceilings. our bathtub was huge (2 people can fit) and my favorite an outdoor shower :) they make breakfast every morning for you (one morning was French toast and the next was juevos rancheros). Literally sipped on cocktails all day by the pool and managed to hit up the bocce ball court. On our way to dinner we noticed they were showing an outdoor movie. There were all these pillows, candles, and cushions and we snuggled under the stars watching "when Harry met Sally". Now there are no tv's at this hotel (which I was a little worried cuz the NBA playoffs were on) but to my surprise was not an issue because we were having such a good time!!! If I want to get away from the buzzing city of Los Angeles and want to re-connect with my man then I will definitely be back to the Korakia!!!!
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Review from Megan M.
Buena Park, CA
3/22/2010
Check it out. Bf brought me here for a surprise birthday/anniversary celebration. We stayed in the Naish House, and it was beautiful. Perfect. Until... boyfriend paid an extra $75 in advance for a "romance package" consisting of rose petals, candles and champagne. We came back to our room to find the pink, bug filled "flowers" from the tree out front thrown all over our bed, MY OWN BOTTLE of champagne that I BROUGHT sitting on the table and a few almost empty tea lights. NOT romantic. So not ok. I couldn't even believe it. Anyways, I would give it 1 star based on that alone, but everything else was really nice, so I have to account for that. Just don't buy the romance package and you should be ok.
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Review from Jiushi B.
Los Angeles, CA
7/28/2011
We chose this B&B because friends had been and all the reviews were solid. My wife and I were pleasantly greeted by the lovely people that worked there during our recent stay, they upgraded us to a great suite, and the relaxation began. My wife has been working too much so relaxation is what she needed. I on the other hand found it a little getting used to my observation that guests seemed not to want to interact with each other. Not a problem, just an observation. I figured I would get with the program and just unwind...nice. This is a place we thoroughly enjoyed and will visit again. Thanks to the staff, you are all so sweet and great!
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Review from Jessica C.
El Monte, CA
5/30/2008 9 photos
Soooooo, this place is great. I actually found it through Yelp, and there were mixed reviews. I decided to give it a try because the pictures on the website were exactly what I was looking for. Mediterranean, unique, unordinary and unpretentious. A beautiful bed and breakfast in a sea of cheapy motels. So-
My boyfriend and I went in late March '08. Arrived on a Thursday afternoon about 4, and left Sunday noon.
When we arrived, these cute young girls in long black wrap skirts greeted us in the main entry. Our room wasn't ready yet, but one of the girls suggested that we hang out by the pool until the maid had finished. Great. The atmosphere was so laid back and casual. The staff was very very friendly. She even helped carry our luggage to the room.
Their room rates vary by the type of room you reserve. We reserved the bungalow called the Aegean. Rustic looking but very clean. No TV, no radio though. There are outlets, andwe brought our own radio. A little steep at $400/night. This room is it's own little cottage, unconnected to any other buildings and it's on the quieter side of the bed and breakfast. There are two pools, and on this side, two other bungalows share our pool. But you can go to either pool, whichever you prefer. This one is quieter though I think. The Aegean has two walls with windowed doors that open, so it's very airy, if you want it to be. Stone floors throughout the whole bungalow, so pool water isn't a problem.
The sitting area is pretty spacious, a couch and two wicker chairs. The kitchen is the only down side. It's tiny. The fridge is helpful for keeping beer cold. That's all we used it for. But, why would you want to cook when you're here? They have menus of nearby places that deliver! Just ask.
The bed and bathroom were perfect. Huge, king size bed with tons of pillows and clean white sheets. Cool shower, and soaking tub. Be warned: the soaking tub is a one-er. Two people just won't fit.
My boyfriend and I were in the pool when one of the hostesses came by to make sure everything was okay and that the room was all done and cleaned. She said they still had some massage appointments available for the next day if we wanted to be massusued. And of course, we wanted. So she put it in the book. About $100 bucks each. Full body massage, in your birthday suite, on a portable massage table, in our room, complete with our own Olga's. Great, very relaxing, and they were soo nice. The massage Cabin was being re-done, so they came to our room. But I think they'll come to your room if you request it after the cabin is done. Prolly might be done by now, I dunno. You can either have it charged to your room or pay them directly after they're done. We payed them directly.
Old movies played at night outside one a projector screen, the little fire pits were lit, and it was so romantic!
This place is a great find. I can't say enough good stuff about it. The staff was just so nice, and that was just icing on the cake. Whatever we asked for any questions we had, they were happy to help. We will definately be back next year. -
Review from sofia b.
Murrieta, CA
3/22/2010
Okay, so if you are a lover of the bohemian-like relaxtion I think you will really dig this place. The setting gives a feeling that you are in Greece. Its very quiet and peaceful. its hard to explain, but as soon as i got there my whole energy was at peace. my advice if your thinking of staying at Korakia is:
1-bring some bottles of wine/or beer /or your fav al beverages so you can relax at one of the many lounging spots at the resort, there are so many neat places to lounge here.
2-bring some yummy cheeses, meats, olives, chocolates
3-enjoy the place, bring your fav books/magazines and games to play with your sig other or friends.
4-if you are going to venture out into the town--go hiking at Taquiz Canyon---dont go shopping at cheesy shops in palm springs--its just the opposite of why your staying at Korakia in the first place.
the staff feeds you a nice healthy breakfast and you can have them serve you lunch aswell. they also have ice tea served all day and then they put out a yummy hot mint tea in the evening with cookies. the staff is really great and chill.
Also, if your like me and leave home to head to palm springs and forget to get your own stock of yummy treats, there is a trader joes on the 111 that is not far from where you are staying.
so yes, if your heading to the palm springs area to get away from it all and enjoy the simple pleasures i think this place is your bag, but if you want more of a buzz going on such as tv, shopping, fancy dining out,--a party scene then i would personally skip korakia and go to palm desert area...
hope this helps you...
