Before driving up the coast of California, I spent a lot of time researching the most beautiful places to go. I really wanted to find a place where we could spend some time just relaxing and enjoying ourselves, to recharge our batteries. During that process, I continuously kept bumping into this one hotel... Calamigos Guest Ranch.

This ranch is located about 15-ish minutes from the Malibu Pier, tucked away in the rugged elevated mountains of California, and set apart from the hustle & bustle. What it lacked in proximity to the pier where the action was, it made up for in cuteness and elegance.

The resort spans over 200 acres and is made up of 70 private luxury cottages, bungalows, and estate rooms. I loved the intimacy of this property and yet, the grounds are quite extensive, so you feel as though you are the only one there at times, making it the perfect hidden treasure.

We had the luxury of staying at the Estate Suite, which offered an incredible lakefront view. I might add that each room offers a complimentary bottle of house-made Calamigos Ranch wine, which was a lovely touch.

The resort also offers a complimentary gourmet breakfast each morning by the spa pool, overlooking stunning views of the ranch. This is no ordinary continental breakfast, we’re talking artisan cheeses, an array of fruits, custom made egg dishes, French toast, shaved chocolate and so forth. It was a wonderful way to start the day.

If thats not enough, a complimentary shuttle departs every hour which takes you to the beach club, where you can soak in the California sun. The Calamigos Beach Club hugs the Malibu coast, along where the Latigo Canyon meets the Pacific Coast Highway.

This beachy mid-century hideaway includes a Surf Shack where you can rent just about anything, a Beach Bar that serves up mean mojitos, and dining options (in case you need a break from the sun).

The Calamgios Guest Ranch is a beautifully designed, decorated and highly photogenic retreat, with a bundle of pools, a gym, spa, jacuzzi, 24h concierge service (driving Teslas), restaurants, WIFI access all over the ranch, and my personal favorite, a beach club. I’m already making plans for my return visit to this quaint and charming Californian escape.

Some tips and recommendations for when you visit:

Nearby beaches to check out - ZUMA Beach, El Matador State Beach, Point Dume State Beach and Surfrider Beach
Nearby and onsite restaurants - Malibu Cafe and Neptunes Net (best fried seafood EVER)