One of Southern California's hidden treasures has luxurious accommodations in Spanish-style casitas scattered on 40 acres of landscaped grounds. Suites have corner fireplaces, luxurious Berber carpeting, and shuttered French doors leading to private patios. Twelve suites also have steam showers, private outdoor hot tubs, and plasma flat-screen TVs. Rancho Valencia is one of the nation's top tennis resorts, with a highly regarded tennis training program for children and adults. There also are two fitness centers, walking trails throughout the property, a croquet lawn, and a sport court where you can play volleyball, shoot some baskets, or smash a birdie over the badminton net. If you're a hotel guest, you can indulge yourself at the spa all day long without charge—unless that indulgence includes a treatment. Pros: Gorgeous surroundings, impeccable service, large rooms. Cons: Secluded, expensive.
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