How did it strike you on arrival?
As downtown LA continues to take off, this classic Hollywood hideaway nods to the city's glamorous past with its extensive gardens, chic pool scene, and warm pink-walled spa. This is what it must feel like to be Hollywood royalty. Tucked away from the city in the hills of Bel-Air amid a 12-acre garden, the hotel is the very definition of exclusivity.
What’s the crowd like?
There's no denying that this hotel attracts a high-end clientele, people who want to stay somewhere that feels as close to a private estate as possible—where they can hole up and disappear if they so choose.
The good stuff: Tell us about the rooms.
The hotel has almost just as many suites (45) as it does guest rooms (58)—the smallest of which is still a pretty sizable 450 square feet. Designed by Alexandra Champalimaud, who also oversaw a full overhaul of the lobby and spa in 2012, the rooms are airy, with a tasteful and somewhat muted palette (brown, white, beige, gold). Feminine yet unfussy, these are definitely rooms you want to linger in and return to at the end of the day.
We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?
Guestrooms are outfitted with king-sized beds and Fili d'Oro Egyptian cotton sheets, all of which are available for purchase at the boutique.
Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.
Towels seemed extra plush and white, made from 100% Egyptian cotton.
What do they have for food and drink?
Culinary director Chef Joe Garcia now oversees the hotel's dining program, with modern Californian cuisine with a Mediterranean influence. In 2024, the hotel introduced two additional culinary spaces—the Patisserie and the Living Room. Dine in the elegant dining room, on the al fresco terrace, or in the bar and lounge, taking advantage of the perpetually beautiful Southern California weather.
Anything stand out?
The legendary Oak Bar is now just The Bar, which hosts live music every night and specializes in small-batch rye, scotch, bourbon, and whiskey. Lining the walls are large black-and-white images by Norman Seeff, who photographed greats like Ray Charles and The Rolling Stones. The iconic oval-shaped pool—heated to 82 degrees year-round—was once a horse-riding ring. Sunbathing guests can expect hourly treats (think chocolate-dipped bananas and fruit sorbet "push pops").
What was most memorable about your stay?
The location. While it is technically in LA, it makes you feel like you're actually on a vacation from the city—a true retreat to return home to after a day likely spent (at least partly) fighting the traffic.
701 Stone Canyon Rd, Los Angeles, California 90077
United States
https://www.dorchestercollection.com/en/los-angeles/hotel-bel-air/
(310) 472-1211