Indulge in Classic Luxury in Pasadena

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Tucked away in Pasadena's swanky Oak Knoll neighborhood where wide, manicured streets are lined with mansions and Craftsman homes, the Langham Huntington Hotel rises from the end of a long driveway like a pink palace. Surrounded by 23 acres of park-like grounds and set against the backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains, this classic beauty--parts of the Spanish Mission Revival-style property date back to 1907-- moved to the top of my list of favorite luxury hotels since my first visit 14 years ago. It's a peaceful sanctuary, yet only  minutes away from Pasadena's attractions.

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My latest stay at the Langham was last month when my family and I checked in for a couple of nights just before the holidays. As soon as I set foot in the marble and chandelier-adorned lobby, I felt like I'd entered the pages of a fairytale. Or maybe "The Great Gatsby." Either way, I didn't want the story to end. Through a graceful arched doorway on the far side of the lobby, I could see the courtyard with its pretty pond and fountain surrounded by flowers. 

Attention to detail is evident throughout the Langham, from the grand hallways that wrap around the courtyard and lead to guest rooms and other parts of the hotel, to the hand-painted ceilings. 

Comfort Zone
Classical music wafting from the radio with iPod docking station greeted us as we entered our spacious deluxe room ($237), bumping the already soothing ambiance up a notch. Traditional dark wood furniture, complemented by accents in regal hues of gold and royal blue, exuded elegance and warmth. There was a desk with plenty of built-in outlets for gadgets, free WI-FI, wide-screen TV, a big closet and a roomy dresser. One of the drawers held a coffee maker. 

Our corner room was on the fifth floor of the main building, which curves around the Horseshoe Garden with its sloping lawn, pathways and variety of plants. I headed straight for the cushy armchair in the nook formed by large bay windows overlooking the grounds (details like this are one of the things I love about the Langham). My perch was the perfect spot to watch the sinking sun cast a rosy glow on the hotel and the first evening lights of L.A. winking in the distance.

Did I mention how quiet our room was? That's a big deal in my book. Even the air conditioner was barely audible, a rarity in hotels that I really appreciate. 

Bathroom
It was large and well-lit, with lots of marble, ample counter space and lux bath products—even  body scrub!-- from the hotel's Chuan Spa. There was also a box packed with vanity supplies you don’t usually find at hotels—but I, at least, often forget to pack--including a toothbrush and razor. 

The hotel's historic Wishing Bridge overlooks a beautiful Olympic-size pool and patio area. Just below the pool, a stream flows through a lovely Japanese garden. (I ran into the adorable family pictured above during a stay last summer.)

The Langham has two restaurants --The Royce, a chic steakhouse, and The Terrace for casual fare. We didn't eat at either during our last stay. But we've enjoyed dining at the The Terrace in the past. Sleek and sophisticated, the Tap Room bar is a stylish spot to grab a drink. The Langham also serves daily afternoon tea--that's on my to-do list for next time.

I'm not much of a spa person. But I peeked inside Chuan Spa before working out at the connected fitness room and was impressed by the blissful vibe. The fitness room has plenty of treadmills, several elliptical trainers and weight training equipment.

Neighborhood 
The cute shops and cafes of Mission Avenue in San Marino are within walking distance of the Langham. Downtown Pasadena's bounty of shopping and dining options, the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens the Norton Simon Museum, are within a 10-minute drive. (I'll be sharing more about some of my favorite things to do in Pasadena in an upcoming post.)

Good to Know

  • If you don't have a vehicle or just don't feel like driving, the hotel's free shuttle can take you to local destinations.
  • The staff members are extremely helpful and friendly
  • Dogs are welcome at the Langham
  • Complimentary morning coffee is available in front of the lobby

Vitals

  • The Langham Huntington Hotel; 1401 South Oak Knoll Avenue, Pasadena, California 91106, USA
  • 380 rooms, suites and cottages; rates begin at around $255 but discounted offers are often available