Live like a modern-day Roman noble in the Resort at Pelican Hill, an Italianate haven of a hotel that resides on the southern California coast. It’s close to the famous Newport Beach in Orange County, with Crystal Cove and the Pacific Ocean within plain sight from across its manicured estate: a picturesque confection of colonnaded patios, soaring arches and honey-hued walls. Indeed, the very look of Pelican Hill screams Mediterranean luxe, incorporating Italian marble, tapestries and furnishings into its attractive design.

This Romanesque touch seeps into the spa too, where the Acqua Colonnades – emulating Roman baths – beckon you to while away a few hours in total relaxation, drifting between the saltwater thermal pool, sauna and steam room. Then there’s the ‘Coliseum’, the Resort at Pelican Hill’s lavish swimming pool that glitters with a million glass mosaic tiles. Recline on a sun lounger beside this huge circular expanse of water, or upgrade to a cabana to relish the extra privacy and butler service. Alternatively, if you prefer the beach, hop on a complimentary shuttle down to Crystal Cove and enjoy exclusive use of the umbrellas and chairs already set up for you; you’ll even be handed a free beach bag, towel and water to make things that much easier.

Meanwhile, keen golfers can head for the Pelican Hill Golf Club which flaunts two 18-hole courses designed by Tom Fazio. It’s also home to the clubhouse, featuring a shop, academy, restaurant and café, so you can linger longer after your game. Otherwise, head back to the resort itself for culinary sensations at a choice of three eateries, a quick coffee in the tea room or drinks at the Great Room Social Lounge, where you can catch live DJ music in the evening – only adding to the atmosphere here.

Between it all, the Resort at Pelican Hill’s guestrooms truly shine. Capacious, bright and airy thanks to private terraces and nude colour schemes, they are tranquil hideaways decked out with thoughtful features, including fireplaces, pillow-top beds, marble bathrooms and plasma TVs. Those looking to push the boat out need look no further than the villas, which – as well as affording huge floorplans and multiple bedrooms – grant access to a private Clubhouse housing a restaurant and swimming pool. Whichever bungalow, suite or villa you opt for, you won’t be disappointed with a sojourn at Pelican Hill.

Rooms: 332

Location: Newport Beach, California

Nearest Airport: John Wayne

Board Basis: Room Only

1. Easy access to the stunning Crystal Cove, a golden crescent of coastline where you can make use of complimentary beach umbrellas, chairs and towels
2. Pelican Hill brings a touch of Italy to California, designed to mimic fine Mediterranean architecture
3. There’s not just one, but two golf courses here: both 18-hole and with dazzling Pacific Ocean vistas
4. Taste a tantalising array of flavours at multiple restaurants, whether you’re in the mood for Californian, Italian, Japanese or something else!
5. Every single guestroom is delightfully spacious and chic, incorporating marble fireplaces, vast terraces and big, comfy beds
6. The spa is a dream, providing nurturing therapies, yoga and barre classes, beauty treatments and a relaxation zone of saunas, steam rooms and jetted tubs