I am always amazed when Palm Springs residents have no idea what I am talking about when I say I'm going to Highland Springs Resort in Cherry Valley. The farm is being rebranded 123 Farm to honor the three growing seasons, plus they no longer have rooms to stay.
Located 30 miles west of Palm Springs, it is a breeze to get there. Travel west on Highway 10 and then turn right on Highlands Springs Avenue. Stay on Highland Springs Avenue and watch for the signs about three miles from Highway 10.
History of Highland Spring Resort - 123 Farm
Initially, the ranch was on the stagecoach stop on the Bradshaw Trail. Then, it became a health resort where Wyatt Erp, Ernest Hemmingway, and Albert Einstein came to rejuvenate away from the rigors of their lives. The original entrance was adorned with olive trees, planted over 100 years ago, creating cathedral-like arches.
Highland Springs Resort is a magical place, no matter what time of day or year I visit. Also, a side note: it is usually about 20 degrees cooler than Palm Springs, for invariably, a delightful breeze is singing through the giant evergreen trees surrounding the beautiful, expansive California lavender fields.
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The host has provided support for certain aspects of the trip, which may include accommodations, activities, meals, or other services. However, the opinions expressed in this post are honest and reflect the author's genuine experience.
My Recent Visit
I hadn't found my way to 123 Farm this year, so I gladly accepted the invitation to explore their wine bar and tapas bar, 123Dough Casa de las Tapas.
The minute I got out of the car, I could smell the evergreen trees—attesting that I was no longer in the Mojave Desert of Coachella Valley. I had left temperatures of 114 degrees, so the cooler weather with a beautiful breeze was very welcome indeed.
I walked the path from the parking lot and smiled as I saw families gathered at the picnic tables scattered throughout the area. One of them had a family playing a game with building blocks and the tiny tots laughing with glee when they fell over. Other groups enjoyed the sourdough pizzas, BBQ, or licking cones filled with lavender ice cream.
While I was there to try out the wine bar, I couldn't come to the farm without having their lavender lemonade. A subtle but classy neon sign, "Lavender Lemonade," led me to the now permanent stand where I could purchase it. I wasn't disappointed. It was as good as I can remember and very thirst-quenching.
Path to 123Dough Casas de las Tapas
I thought I knew the grounds pretty well, but it was apparent things had changed a great deal. I was confused about where I was supposed to go. I stopped in at the Flower Market and got directions. Yes, the layout is immense.
I was told to head up to the organic vendors' cottages, walk down the path, and follow the signs at the end of the path. The entire farm is organic and sustainable. Peeking in, I smiled as I saw vendors selling their wares. A note to myself: this would be a great place to do some holiday shopping.
Arriving at 123Dough Casa de las Tapas
Walking down the path, I was surprised to see a Spanish-style building standing before me. I hadn't remembered seeing it before. It turns out it wasn't available to the public and is somewhat away from the other buildings. It is the oldest building on the ranch and is impeccably restored.
Once inside, I walked up to the wine bar, checked in with my reservations, and was escorted out into a courtyard rivaling anyone in Spain. Scattered throughout the open-air courtyard, tables were filled with people of all ages.
During the next two hours, I had the opportunity to taste tapas prepared by Chef Ignacio Blanco, an acclaimed Galician born from Ibiza Kitchen in New York. Oh my, so delicious—each one seemed to outdo the one before.
To give you an idea of the outstanding evening, our first tasting was Black Bench Champagne, sourced from Champagne, France. Pan Con Tomate, Tomato, and 123 Dough were served with it, a Sourdough bread made with ancient grains, extra virgin olive oil, and salt.
The seven-course tapas presentation ended with Nevat, goat cheese, walnuts, figs, honey, and truffle oil on crackers served with Jimenez-Landi Sotorrondero 2020 Mentrida, Spain.
As I sat there, I kept thinking, this is truly a wonderful place to have a romantic date night or bring friends stuck in their routines. Plus, it is quiet and a wonderful place to talk and share food and unique, organic wines.
Retracing my steps to the car, a beautiful wonderland appeared for me. Thousands of tiny white lights illuminated the trees and cacti, creating a fairy-light atmosphere. Detouring a bit, I walked to the cathedral of olive trees, which showcased themselves through the thousands of lights, providing the perfect background for that perfect photo.
It was time for me to leave. Truthfully, it is not easy to pull myself away. However, I told myself I would be back soon.
Seeming to provide the perfect cap for a special evening, the full moon on the drive home there in front of me for most of the drive was the brightest orange I have ever seen.
Kathy Condon is a Journalist, Travel Writer, and Award-winning Author. Her niche is luxury experiences and communities living in the shadows of large cities. kathy@kathycondon.net 760-902-3094 www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com
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Do they not have lamb anymore? I have read several articles and reviews and not single one made mention of it.....they were once known for their farm raised lamb....so I found it odd...is it no longer a part of the cuisine? I'm local.... so I will stop in at the gift shop for some sage smudges and kindly ask for the information.
Excellent suggestion for a reprieve from the desert heat. Thanks, Kathy