Mission Inn and Spa

Mission Inn and Spa Review

One of California's most historic hotels, the inn grew from a modest adobe lodge in 1876 to the grand Spanish-Revival hotel it is today. From the late 1800s, when millionaires were flocking to California in search of wealth, to 1935, owner Frank Miller enlarged and embellished the property with Tiffany glass, an antique bell collection, and many fine paintings. He welcomed 10 U.S. presidents over the years, including Teddy Roosevelt (a painting portraying Teddy and the Rough Riders hangs in Duane's restaurant), Ronald Reagan, Richard Nixon, and John F. Kennedy. After a long period of decline, the hotel was purchased by Duane Roberts, who began a total renovation in the 1990s. The grand archways, flying buttresses, secluded gardens, and two inspirational chapels remain, but the gorgeous structure is now totally modern. Duane's Prime Steak and Seafood restaurant within the hotel is where locals go for special occasions. Sunday brunch here is excellent, though pricey, say locals. Kelly's Spa is a tranquil Tuscan-style relaxation destination, with hand-painted frescoes, Venetian chandeliers, and barrel-vaulted ceilings; there are six treatment rooms and two private villas with outdoor teak rain showers, marble-encased aromatherapy baths, and flat-screen TVs.