Secret of Sunset

Sunset Marquis (West Hollywood)

GETAWAYS • Los Angeles

Lead singer Rob Halford of legendary English heavy metal band Judas Priest recently stepped outside the Sunset Marquis hotel in West Hollywood and found himself besieged by autograph seekers with vinyl covers to be signed.

That’s not an unusual occurrence at the iconic bolthole, where rockers old and new from around the globe come to record in the Marquis’ in-house legendary Nightbird Studios.

Tucked off Alta Loma Road, the hotel is 100 feet down from Sunset Boulevard, near Whiskey a Go Go — it’s hidden, discreet, and protected by a staff that understands its customers. With perfectly manicured acreage, a koi pond, and two swimming pools, the hotel's modest entry leads to a secluded garden setting situated on three levels. Rooms are hidden away all over the property.

For 51 years, it’s been the home away from home for actors, comedians, writers, artists, filmmakers, fashion designers, supermodels, restaurateurs, and rock stars. The hotel became ground zero for the metal scene in the ’80s (bands such as Metallica, Iron Maiden, Kiss, Guns ‘N Roses, Aerosmith, and the Chili Peppers were guests) but also remained home to megastars like Phil Collins, Sting, and Julio Iglesias.

In the ’90s, musicians like Dave Grohl of the Foo Fighters, Green Day, Usher, and Kings of Leon found their way to Alta Loma.

Guests gather at the airy outdoor Cavatina bar and restaurant, a low-key scene where California-healthy food service begins at 7a. The kitchen stays open until 11p (an anomaly in LA). After 10p, the action moves to a poorly lit, gritty speakeasy, Bar 1200, with its outdoor smoking parlor and live music.

Villas start at $600. I recommend #62, which is hidden and spacious with a TOTO toilet. –Brad Inman

→ Sunset Marquis (West Hollywood) • 1200 Alta Loma Rd • king room rates from $309 (December weekend).