The Blue Iguana Inn, a fine hotel alternative, is a southwest treasure with old-world ambience nestled in the heart of California's lush Ojai Valley and framed by the stark beauty of the nearby Los Padres National Forest.

The Ojai Valley is renowned not only for its natural beauty, but also the soulful creations of its many artists and artisans. To that end, the Blue Iguana Inn and Emerald Iguana Cottages serve not only as resort-like vacation getaways, but also as a collective showcase for some of the fabulous artwork that the valley has inspired.

The Inn and Cottages are both designed and built by renowned architect Marc Whitman. The Inn models the old missions that took root in Mexico and spread throughout the southwest and into Old California. Flagstone paths marked with intricate inset stone designs and exquisite handmade Mediterranean tiles lead up to an arched entrance dominated by a Blue Iguana tile mosaic sculpture and fountain. Large Ojai river rocks set the inn's corners, while terra cotta curved roofing and rugged outpost railings complete a motif complemented by the beautifully landscaped gardens that surround the pool and spa area. The Cottages are designed in a Craftsman/Art Noveau style that enhances their wooded environment.

This Old World southwestern theme also extends to the accommodations themselves. Each of the inn's guest rooms has a private bath, and each of the suites and cottages has a kitchen and some have fireplaces. Available by the week and month, the suites and cottages make ideal vacation rentals. All of the inn's lodging accommodations are uniquely appointed with authentic and unique furniture, rugs, and accessories from throughout the world. Standard amenities include expanded channel color television, telephone with free local calls, alarm clock, complimentary newspaper, fresh flowers, refreshment bar and coffee maker, and air conditioning. In-room massage is available at an additional charge.

On the weekends, a complimentary continental breakfast of warm muffins, fresh fruit, juice, and coffee or tea is available. Bed and breakfast lodging is also available with the inn's special two-night, two-person, mid-week "Shangri-La Package."

Ojai is home to world-class art galleries and an eclectic collection of shops, studios, and boutiques. And the surrounding valley gives rise to myriad hiking trails and campgrounds as well as some premium golf courses, wineries and tennis facilities.

The hillsides blaze with poppies and wildflowers during a festival-filled spring. When the dry, clean heat of summer hits, a shimmering Lake Casitas beckons swimmers, fishermen, and boaters alike during the day, while concerts, plays, and other outdoor performances provide an open invitation at night. Many consider the valley's beauty to peak during its foliage-rich fall, yet others prefer the way Ojai's crystal-clear winter nights throw starlight across the snow-capped Sierra Madres. All of which goes to prove that the perfect time to visit the Ojai Valley, as well as the Blue Iguana Inn and Emerald Iguana Cottages, is any time you choose.