Retreat To Joshua Tree: A Weekend Of Luxury In The High Desert

At the edge of Joshua Tree National Park sits a true designer’s retreat: the Landing House. A slim slice of concrete, cedar, and glass, it’s the ideal escape for up to four guests to enjoy a luxurious weekend of natural desert beauty, poolside hangs, and delicious meals cooked on-site by a local chef.

Where to Stay

The Landing House is part of Homestead Modern’s portfolio of design-forward, high desert accommodations. Perched in an area of Joshua Tree known as Monument Manor, neighbours (including the famous Invisible House) are nearby, yet far enough away to offer a sense of seclusion.

Passing through the entrance, guests step onto a concrete patio that stretches ahead to a circular plunge pool, bridging two wings of the home: one, a primary bedroom with an attached ensuite; the other, an open kitchen, dining area, and living space, with a secondary primary and ensuite at the far end. The décor is contemporary and inviting.

My friend and I lounge across from each other, dressed in undyed desert outfits left in each closet for guests’ comfort, joking that we should move here and start our own commune. It’s one of many relaxed moments where we find space to simply be—connected, calm, and called to appreciate the arid Mojave around us.

At both high noon, in the reverberating heat, and after the stars emerge against a navy night sky, it feels as though someone tiptoed in and gently placed the home here, like the final touch on a diorama. The sensation resonates, considering the many spiritual seekers and artists drawn to this area over the years.

What to Eat

One such artist is chef Tenoch “Chef T” Sanchez, founder of KˊÓOBEN Catering and Events. His thoughtful nature and generous portions exceed expectations. On our first night, we choose the “Paris to Naples” three-course menu, beginning with seasonal fish crudo and burrata, followed by mouthwatering Ravioles du Dauphiné washed in butter and peppered to perfection. Dessert is light by request: homemade berry sorbet topped with a large meringue. This menu is one of several with a geographical anchor, allowing diners to navigate the globe from his roving kitchen. “My approach revolves around celebrating my Mexican heritage and blending it with international ideas,” says Sanchez.

Night two brings his signature Raíces Tasting Menu, an eight-course journey through his heritage, love of cooking, and deep appreciation for agriculture—passions sparked while preparing meals for his family at age seven. Sanchez aims to offer “an experience that elevates Mexican cuisine without any of the poshness. Mexican food can be just as refined and intricate as French or Italian cuisine.”

We begin with charcoal-black onion tartlets with vegetable and pepper demi-glacé, moving through each course with measured pauses: quick-cured fish with watermelon aguachile consommé, beef tartare on a corn masa chancla, fresh fish taco with pineapple and tableside salsas. Between courses, we sip a ranch water mocktail made with his own alcohol-free mezcal, later followed by a layered, aromatic zero-proof wine.

Next comes pato and gnocchi with crispy duck carnitas and wild berry gastrique, then scallop and steak cloaked in dried chile ash sauce. After a refreshing rue, rosemary, and basil granita, the finale arrives: buñuelo and crème. Sanchez signs off with a thoughtful parting gift—pre-mixed horchata and a piece of palo santo.

What to Do

The weekend’s magic extends beyond the property’s design and cuisine. Just three minutes from our gate lies the entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. Before the heat of the day, we say goodbye to cell service and visit the park’s craggy wonders: Cap Rock, Skull Rock, Heart Rock, and the panoramic lookout of Keys View.

After sunset, with full stomachs, we return to the park to fill our hearts. Far from the lights of the small desert towns and the Coachella Valley beyond, the stars gather in brilliant clusters, as if leaning in to keep us company. This too, is luxury. —Kim Bastian