DESTINATION – LOS ANGELES SERIES 2/8 - A HIDDEN GEM REIMAGINED: INSIDE THE TIMELESS LUXURY OF HOTEL BEL-AIR (United States)
Experience a perfect day of elegance, relaxation, and culinary delight at Hotel Bel-Air. |
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DESTINATION – LOS ANGELES SERIES 2/8 - A HIDDEN GEM REIMAGINED: INSIDE THE TIMELESS LUXURY OF HOTEL BEL-AIR (United States)
Experience a perfect day of elegance, relaxation, and culinary delight at Hotel Bel-Air. |
Category: North America & West Indies / Carribean islands - United States - Industry economy
- Tourism
Article written by Asia Abadie on 2025-03-24
 The Valmont Spa of the Hotel Bel Air is known for The Enclave, a room with two treatment beds and a marble soaking tub
Photo credit © Asia Abadie
Now, with several new offerings and thoughtfully refreshed spaces, Hotel Bel-Air is embracing its illustrious past while reimagining its future, ensuring its enduring appeal for a new generation of visitors and returning guests alike.
Arriving at Hotel Bel-Air feels like stepping into another world. The experience starts when you first drive up to the hotel and the valet opens your door with a kind “Welcome to Hotel Bel-Air”. As you make your way to the hotel you walk on a bridge above the gardens and the river. Surrounded by trees, you feel immediately transported away from the bustling city of Los Angeles.
Upon arrival, enjoy the hotel’s newest addition, The Living Room. Settle into one of the plush chairs and enjoy the calmness surrounded by greenery that feels like it’s part of the garden. Designed by Champalimaud, this space effortlessly blends the indoors and outdoors, creating a serene yet vibrant ambiance. As the martini cart glides by, you can’t resist ordering a cocktail to pair with light bites from the menu curated by the hotel’s culinary director, Joe Garcia. By the time the first sip hits, the outside world feels like a distant memory.
After your drink, you can wander through the hotel’s lush grounds, taking in the tropical gardens, the soothing sound of fountains, and the enchanting sight of Swan Lake. Every corner reveals a hidden nook—a bench tucked under a canopy of trees or a sun-drenched patio perfect for quiet reflection. It’s no wonder so many creatives have found inspiration here. If you are ever in need of an event space, Swan Lake can be rented for weddings – although you will need to rent out the rooms in the vicinity for the noise. Opposite it, on the front lawn, you will either find seating or depending on the time of the year you might find the hotel’s outdoor cinema for their movie series. There is one for Halloween, Christmas and in summer. The experience is not just about the movie, you will also find a gelato cart, popcorn and a bar.
As the afternoon sun climbs higher, the time to lounge by the iconic oval-shaped pool arrives. Originally a horse stable, it was designed to preserve its footprint, hence the shape. The pool area is quiet and serene, a perfect spot to relax with a book or simply bask in the sunlight. The attentive staff ensures every need is met, from towels to a perfectly chilled drink.
If you wish, you can then head to the Valmont Spa. Known for The Enclave, a room in which you will find two treatment beds with a marble soaking tub and a shady patio. The Spa has seven treatment rooms, male and female steam rooms, a nail suite, the Salon by Joseph Hair & Beauty, and a fitness centre.
After a rejuvenating afternoon, retreat to your room to prepare for the evening. The Stone Canyon Suite, a secluded hideaway at the far end of the property away from everything and everyone, was once the hotel’s original Presidential Suite, this space is rich in history and charm, with a private garden terrace, a cozy fireplace, a Jacuzzi, and views of the surrounding greenery. The suite contains a little kitchenette, a dining area, a study, a living room and the guest room. After a luxurious shower or bath with the bespoke Wildsmith amenities—crafted exclusively for the Dorchester Collection hotels—you slip into evening attire, ready to embrace the glamour of Hotel Bel-Air’s nightlife.
As twilight falls, the energy shifts to The Bar, one of Los Angeles’ most iconic lounges. The atmosphere is electric, yet intimate, as guests gather for expertly crafted cocktails. Choose your favourite cocktail and savour the vibrant ambiance and engaging light conversations with fellow visitors. The Bar has a timeless quality, a space that feels as alive today as it likely did decades ago. The Bar is constantly busy and has been ever since its opening. Depending on the night of the week you will have different live performances to accompany you through the evening.
After drinks, head for dinner to The Restaurant. The hotel’s culinary heart, it is nothing short of extraordinary. Chef Joe Garcia’s Michelin-starred expertise shines through in every dish, from the delicate starters to the perfectly executed mains. Whether it’s a succulent cut of steak, a seasonal pasta, or a fresh seafood dish, each bite is a celebration of flavour and artistry. The setting itself is equally exquisite, with elegant decor and impeccable service making the meal a true highlight of the day.
The Living Room is the perfect place to keep the evening going by enjoying a martini from the cart and listen to the music playing. The lobby becomes a cozy place to unwind from the day before heading back to the quiet comfort of the Stone Canyon Suite, where the fireplace flickers softly. As you sink into the plush bed, you can reflect on a day that felt like both an escape and a dream. Hotel Bel-Air has a way of making time stand still, offering an experience that is both luxurious and deeply personal. For those seeking a day of indulgence, tranquillity, and timeless charm, there’s simply no place like Hotel Bel-Air.
During your stay at the hotel, you can enjoy the services offered by the hotel car which can drive you to the sister hotel, the Beverly Hills Hotel, or anywhere else up to three miles away from the hotel.
When reality comes striking back and you check out from the hotel, you can enjoy a fresh pastry from The Patisserie. Located in what was once the gift shop, this cozy shop is a treasure trove of buttery croissants, delicate tarts, and expertly brewed coffee. Every day from 7am to noon on weekdays, and until 2pm on the weekend, you can choose a flaky almond croissant and a velvety cappuccino and savour every bite in the peaceful surroundings. The project was spearheaded by French executive pastry chef, Christophe Rull. It’s easy to see why this spot is beloved not only by hotel guests but also by Bel-Air locals.
With 103 rooms, with 45 of them suites, the hotel is home to an infinite of intimate places around to settle down to read book, write, relax. It is filled with little nooks. It is more than a hotel—it is a retreat and an experience you’ll carry with you long after you’ve left. For those in search of an oasis in the heart of Los Angeles, Hotel Bel-Air awaits, reimagined yet timeless.
Editor's note: We visited the hotels of our Los Angeles series in October 2024 and delayed the publications to Spring due to the fires, we hope none of the team members were severely impacted by them.
 Photo credit © Asia Abadie
 Photo credit © Asia Abadie
 Photo credit © Asia Abadie
 The Stone Canyon suite possesses its own hot tub
Photo credit © Asia Abadie
 The Stone Canyon Suite, a secluded hideaway at the far end of the property away from everything and everyone, was once the hotel’s original Presidential Suite
Photo credit © Asia Abadie
 Photo credit © Asia Abadie
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