Photos courtesy of Pechanga Resort & Casino

To the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians, the word “Pechanga” has always meant “place where the water drips.” For thousands of years that special water has dripped in the beautiful Temecula Valley, helping create not only a world-renown casino and resort but a new championship golf course, “Journey.” The exciting course appropriately winds across the Pechanga River and rises & falls more than 300 feet in the land that has bountiful beauty, including Great Oaks, which symbolize the Indians’ ageless character traits of strength, wisdom, and determination. Ironically, these are the exact same traits golfers embody when challenging the inspiring natural terrain. Even former US Open Champion Corey Pavin, who represents the course on the pro tour, is in awe of the glorious grandeur that is the journey. After all, a wise man once pronounced, “The journey is the reward!”

But that’s just part of the reward for visiting Pechanga. The Great Oak is honored in a unique steakhouse with that name, where Pechanga’s own delicious Premium Angus Beef is delightfully prepared to arouse your senses, thanks to the cooking style of legendary Chef Christopher O’Connell, who combines the Californian flair with European finesse to give eaters a taste they’ll never forget.

Another reason to stop by for a visit is to leave the frantic, overactive urban life behind by relaxing and rejuvenating at the World Class Spa that caters to your every whim. (Be sure and ask about the Spa Specials.) The Pechanga Band also knew how to unwind. The Indians have always been connected with this gorgeous, quiet land of enchantment, where they still make beautiful music with their drums, flutes, dances and songs. Such masterful, quality entertainment continues inside the Pechanga Theater, where you might also see B.B. King, Etta James, Bill Cosby and other top acts that know how to communicate with and mesmerize their audiences.

As dazzling as these legendary entertainers are, nothing tops a stay at Pechanga’s AAA Four Diamond Resort, which speaks for itself in posh accommodations, friendly service and a 188,000-square-foot casino, that adds icing to the cake.

Like the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians, the resort "lifts branches to the sun, providing roots, shelter and food--helping restore balance and harmony to the valley”--one of the most beautiful spots on earth. 

A round of golf, spa treatment, exquisite dining, music and comedy shows, casino gambling and even wedding planning are all perfect options at Pechanga Resort & Casino. Go to: pechanga.com