Mr Hudson's top 10 boutique hotels in California

The name should give you an inkling of what’s in store at the Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa, but this inland property – on 43 acres of manicured lawns and lush olive groves – definitely has the capacity to surprise. Stay in one of a cluster of Spanish-style bungalows where a number of outdoor hot tubs (both public and private) benefit from grove-side views in proximity to croquet, bocce and tennis facilities. Inside meanwhile, guests have a choice of the yoga pavilion, fitness centre or of course the spa, finishing up the day with on-site shopping or sunbathing by the pool. The hotel comes committed to both sustainability and wellness, operating two restaurants as well as al fresco dining throughout the year so there’s little need to ever leave the hotel!

Taking advantage of California’s epic coastline scenery is the adults-only Ventana Big Sur, a holistic spa resort based on 200 acres of oceanfront woodland. Both rustic and luxurious, the Ventana Big Sur allows guests to stay in any of its 62 lavish cabins, each featuring high-end amenities and luxe shower rooms with soaking tubs. Make the most of the redwood surroundings by joining the resort’s discovery walks and hiking tours, or opt for ultimate relaxation at the on-site Japanese baths before bathing beside the clothing-optional pool. Otherwise, there are also a great many holistic activities to get involved in, including yoga classes, wine & cheese evenings and even glamping retreats for those looking to get even closer to nature. At night, stay cosy around the fireplace in common areas or on the huge lawn in view of the ocean and the stars. One of the most indulgent properties on the Big Sur, Ventana will cater to your every need, with five-star Cliffside restaurant and wedding services also on offer.

Another of the unique hotels on the California coast goes by the name of Post Ranch Inn, a cliff-side wonder built from recycled redwood trees and nestled within redwood forest. With a number of cabins and cottages to choose from, Post Ranch Inn brings total seclusion and impressive landscape views with wood-burning fire features to keep you nice and cosy while stargazing. Your room has everything you need, from complementary wine to a personal library, but outside you can also find the shared spa, gym and multiple infinity pools. Post Ranch Inn is eco-lux at its best; as well as solar panelling throughout, the inn strives to protect native flora and fauna, such as the Western Pond Turtle and the California Condor. The inn’s range of Lexus Hybrid cars are also on offer, should you wish to venture out after breakfast at the resort’s award-winning restaurant, Sierra Mar.

One of the more historic gay resorts California has to offer is The Francis House, a Calistoga property close to some of Napa Valley’s most sought-after wineries. Less than four kilometres from both Castello di Amorosa and Chateau Montelena, The Francis House provides guests with the perfect end-of-day retreat, fitted with outdoor swimming pool, infrared sauna and salt room, as well as its own library. Based in downtown Calistoga, The Francis House benefits from better nightlife than most Napa Valley resorts, though there is also the option to spend the night stargazing beside the garden fire pit. Either way, this small hotel is sure to amaze with its fusion of French colonial and contemporary architectural styles, complemented by European herb garden and antique Parisian suites. All crystal chandeliers and brass knobs yet also with heated toilets and floors, The Francis House is sure to surprise at every turn as the pride of Calistoga since 1886.

Named among the best gay resorts Palm Springs has to offer, The Hacienda at Warm Sands is a clothing-optional experience serving gay couples and honeymooners in a dreamy palm-strewn setting, all backgrounded by the San Jacinto Mountains. In Palm Springs you’re never far from desert wilderness and national park wonders but staying at The Hacienda at Warm Sands will ensure you have the best chance of relaxation in good company after a sweaty day of exploring. Your wish is their command, as Warm Sands has a staff to guest ratio of one to one, providing anything from cocktails to flowers as and when you need them. In addition, the daily complimentary breakfast and lunch service can be served in your room or poolside in serene natural surroundings.

A windswept beauty atop Shaw’s Cove on the Pacific coast is the beach-chic Hotel Joaquin, an oceanfront bungalow decked out with curated artwork and vintage furniture in playful contemporary styles. Just an hour outside of LA, Hotel Joaquin melds both Hollywood luxury and Cali surfer spirit to create a space that is as equally vogue as it is down to earth. From its in-room record players to its vaulted spa, the hotel breathes luxury, while the saltwater pool and kitchen garden show off the owners’ sustainable credentials. Relax with poolside cocktails or walk to the ocean for the perfect Cali getaway.