Built in the 1940s, The Palms at Indian Head is a mid-century modern boutique hotel in Borrego Springs. For Los Angeles-based photographer Tom Bertolotti, known for his portraits and neo-noir style capturing cinematic urban and Southwestern scenes, The Palms is a muse. Since his first visit in 2021, Tom has captured its timeless beauty, from poolside views of Indian Head Mountain to stunning sunrises, blending history, design, and natural splendor in his work.
In Tom Bertolotti's Words
We discovered the Palms in 2021, ten days after my discovery of Borrego Springs. Back then it was the only hotel that was open in Borrego and it was an instant crush. For us Borrego Springs is a haven of peace, quiet, and relaxation and the Palms are a haven within the haven.
In four years we stayed only once at a different accommodation because the Palms were fully booked, and to be honest that totally spoiled our Borrego experience. Never again!
We are Europeans and, before moving to California in 2018, Greece was our go-to holiday destination. Greece is too far now, but we found a different Mediterranean experience at the Palms.
In the early summer I love sipping a drink by the pool or in the water while looking at Indian Head standing tall behind the hotel: it reminds me of being on a Greek island, in the lukewarm water, looking at the barren hills gently rolling down to the shore.
We have favorite winter and summer rooms. In the summer you can’t beat the convenience of the casitas, with their little shaded porch and the quick access to the pool. In the winter, when the large pool becomes too cold for swimming, we enjoy rooms on the upper deck. It feels like being on a cruise ship, and the sunrise views leave me speechless every time.
My photography has been called “neo-noir”. I embraced that label, and I think that explains why the Palms has become such a recurring theme in my work. I explored all of its nooks and crannies over the past four years, in all seasons.
From 40 degrees on winter mornings to 120 on 4th of July weekends, we were there and pictures were taken.
Images Provided By Tom Bertolotti
Closing Thoughts
Through Tom Bertolotti’s lens, The Palms at Indian Head comes alive as a place of beauty and inspiration. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to your favorite room, we invite you to experience the tranquility and charm that have made The Palms unforgettable for so many.
About Tom Bertolotti
Tom Bertolotti is a Los Angeles-based photographer known for his portraits and his neo-noir style, capturing cinematic urban scenes and iconic Southwestern landscapes. Originally from Pavia, Italy, he earned a Ph.D. in philosophy and pursued an academic career across Italy, France, and the United States before transitioning to photography. Visit his website to learn more.
His work has been featured in various exhibitions, including a notable showcase of nocturnal and twilight photographs of Borrego Springs curated by Elizabeth Rodriguez, first presented at The House of Borrego Springs West Gallery, and currently on view at the Borrego Springs Public Library.