Midcentury Mojave

Part of a historic retreat campus, just a mile from Joshua Tree National Park, this studio is ideal for those wanting to switch off. Mid-century architecture draws the desert landscape indoors via large windows, while a semi-private patio looks out to the mountains. There are no TVs here by design, which means mornings start with locally roasted French press coffee and the kind of stillness the desert does best. A communal pool, hot tub, and outdoor fireplace add to the appeal, as does the on-site vegetarian cafe and retreat centre activities for days you want to take it easy.

Home truths:
* Your host operates several homes here, so the exact view, layout and furnishings might differ slightly from the photos. However, the overall quality should remain the same.
* The pool, barbecue grills, and outdoor spaces are shared with guests across all suites on the campus, so you'll be mixing with fellow travellers rather than having them to yourselves. You'll also have access to the on-site retreat centre and vegetarian cafe.
* The shared hot tub is heated during the winter months, but it's not heated in the summer.
* This is an adults-only property – all guests must be 18 or older to stay.
* There isn't a TV inside the studio, making it ideal for guests who truly want to switch off.
* You'll need a car here, as the home is surrounded by unpaved desert roads with a few ruts – though four-wheel-drive isn't required.
* Cell service in the desert is patchy and varies by provider – we recommend enabling wi-fi calling or downloading a VoIP app before you leave home.