Here, in Tecate, Baja California, Mexico, Edmond and Deborah Szekely established the world's 1st destination spa. Soon Rancho La Puerta became the paradigm of all vacations that encompass health and wellness for body, mind and spirit. An amazing range of fitness activities, luxury spa amenities, excellent accommodations, and entertainment awaits you.
Follow us
Services
Rancho La Puerta has always been a great value and remains so today while being consistently named one of the top destination spas in the world by readers of magazines Conde Nast Traveler and Travel+Leisure. Feel your best in body, mind and spirit. Our guests feel lighter, happier and healthier in the company of our exceptional staff, stunning gardens and expansive wildlands. Peace of mind and spontaneous joy are common side effects! Improve your mood, diet, sleep habits, fitness abilities, and overall wellbeing.
To make the most out of your week at Rancho La Puerta, we encourage you to start by scheduling cleansing treatments at the beginning of the week, continue mid-week with treatments that relax and restore, and opt for ones that energize during the last day or two before leaving The Ranch. Add treatments to your itinerary, and book them all at once or you already know which treatments you'd like, you can also just go straight to the spa booking form.Combining the best elements of spa and beauty, our Wisteria Package cleanses, relaxes, restores and energizes the body.
Our summer spa and fitness adventures that will leave you renewed, recharged and feeling your best. Begin your day on a scenic garden hike, savor a farm-fresh-breakfast, stretch out in. Delight your senses. Our 6th Annual Chamber Music Festival features ten of the world's finest musicians who will inspire you with extraordinary performances set in the relaxed atmosphere of The.
Dwell in beauty and privacy in one of our 86 casitas tucked away in luxuriant grounds. Each has a distinct personality and architectural flair. You'll be welcomed with wood beamed ceilings, sweeping archways, hand-painted tiles and museum-quality folk art. All accommodations have attached patios enveloped in nature.
The Ranch is part of the natural world, rather than the other way around. Set in a valley at the base of Mt. Kuchumaa, our river gives life to marshlands and ancient oak groves. We've preserved thousands of acres of wildlands for guests to enjoy. Our temperate Mediterranean climate hosts an incredible diversity of flora and fauna.
Reviews (25)
David Bowles
May 30, 2022
Rancho la Puerta is amazing! The food is healthy, there are fitness classes from easy to medium, and there are lectures and performances too. Be sure to book a massage. [Edit as of May 2022: Covid-19 protocols are followed; masks are required inside public buildings. Everything is as fantastic as ever.]
Carol Macfarland
May 21, 2022
Peter Navarro
Apr 15, 2022
Suzanne B.
Apr 08, 2022
This was my 2nd stay at "The Ranch" and probably my last. Think of a glorified summer camp for middle aged white upper-class women. I was a solo traveler who stayed 7 days in a Ranchera and spent about $7,500 which included 4 spa treatments, extra lattes, and tips for one week. Even at this price point, I was told by one of the long time Ranchers (has been at the ranch 30+ times) I was staying in the "Ghetto" of the Ranch and joked that I was on the "wrong side of the tracks." Someone said this used to be the area with a sewage problem, so you get the idea. Yes, even at the ranch there are clicks of snobby women so be prepared to deal with that while you are there.
I stayed in room E3. The room was okay, it had an ant problem in the bathroom, I mentioned something the third day, but the problem persisted. Ants all over the bathroom floor and counter continued throughout the stay. I must have been near an area for employees, several times I went to take a nap in the middle of the day and could hear people talking loudly in Spanish outside. Again, think of this place as a fancy summer camp so bugs and ants are to be expected, I guess.
I was really looking forward to Sound Healing, but they had a visiting teacher that was just awful. I remember it before being one of the amazing classes they offer, but this woman sang and spoke the entire time (sometimes chanting "I love you I love you I love you" repeatedly which to me was weird), I could hear workers outside speaking in Spanish, people shuffled in over 10 minutes late, people next to me were snoring loudly.
Not the experience I was after and I was counting down the minutes until I could make my exit. Some of the instructors you will love some you will hate. I felt Cathleen was unprofessional and critical to the people staying there. I felt she was rude to people in class and just seemed like a person that had been there too long (I believe she was the head yoga/Pilates person) which was sad.
She started off coming into my first class with her complaining about how she just came from a complaining guest that was ranting about how bad her room was. Again, some people will like her and the experience, but I did not. I came to the Ranch to get away from that and heal, not to hear that. Overall, I feel that classes need some updating, but 90% of the guests are mostly fit over 55 white women so I guess the classes are good for and cater to that demographic. Spa: The Spa treatments were not as good this time as they were the first time I was there.
The only treatment I can recommend is the Japanese Facial. The other massages and facial I had were mediocre including a stone massage that the guy spent 50% of the time futzing with the stones and a Ranch Massage where she gave me a light rub and a towel that barely covered my body. They have this exclusive skincare line for facials that the "Spa Specialists" look at your face and give you a skin care regimen.
The two facials I had resulted in two separate "skin care regimens" so take it with a grain of salt. All the buildings, Health Center, rooms are okay but, in my opinion, needs some updating (remember summer camp style). For $7,500 a week, you are staying in old school, Spanish tile room with basic amenities. Food: Delicious vegetarian cuisine but the coffee is horrible.
Consider bringing your own to make in your room if you want to. They have the Bazaar which has lattes and espresso drinks but plan on spending $7-$8 (not including tip) per small to medium sized drink. Best Part: The landscaped grounds are stunning and the morning hikes. At the end someone asked if I was ready to go home and I said "definitely." She looked completely shocked by reaction of wanting to go home so to each their own!
I guess if you have unlimited money and vacation time do it! But if like me, you save for something really unique and special and only have a couple times a year to travel, you may find a better suited adventure and luxurious vacation elsewhere for this price point.
I stayed in room E3. The room was okay, it had an ant problem in the bathroom, I mentioned something the third day, but the problem persisted. Ants all over the bathroom floor and counter continued throughout the stay. I must have been near an area for employees, several times I went to take a nap in the middle of the day and could hear people talking loudly in Spanish outside. Again, think of this place as a fancy summer camp so bugs and ants are to be expected, I guess.
I was really looking forward to Sound Healing, but they had a visiting teacher that was just awful. I remember it before being one of the amazing classes they offer, but this woman sang and spoke the entire time (sometimes chanting "I love you I love you I love you" repeatedly which to me was weird), I could hear workers outside speaking in Spanish, people shuffled in over 10 minutes late, people next to me were snoring loudly.
Not the experience I was after and I was counting down the minutes until I could make my exit. Some of the instructors you will love some you will hate. I felt Cathleen was unprofessional and critical to the people staying there. I felt she was rude to people in class and just seemed like a person that had been there too long (I believe she was the head yoga/Pilates person) which was sad.
She started off coming into my first class with her complaining about how she just came from a complaining guest that was ranting about how bad her room was. Again, some people will like her and the experience, but I did not. I came to the Ranch to get away from that and heal, not to hear that. Overall, I feel that classes need some updating, but 90% of the guests are mostly fit over 55 white women so I guess the classes are good for and cater to that demographic. Spa: The Spa treatments were not as good this time as they were the first time I was there.
The only treatment I can recommend is the Japanese Facial. The other massages and facial I had were mediocre including a stone massage that the guy spent 50% of the time futzing with the stones and a Ranch Massage where she gave me a light rub and a towel that barely covered my body. They have this exclusive skincare line for facials that the "Spa Specialists" look at your face and give you a skin care regimen.
The two facials I had resulted in two separate "skin care regimens" so take it with a grain of salt. All the buildings, Health Center, rooms are okay but, in my opinion, needs some updating (remember summer camp style). For $7,500 a week, you are staying in old school, Spanish tile room with basic amenities. Food: Delicious vegetarian cuisine but the coffee is horrible.
Consider bringing your own to make in your room if you want to. They have the Bazaar which has lattes and espresso drinks but plan on spending $7-$8 (not including tip) per small to medium sized drink. Best Part: The landscaped grounds are stunning and the morning hikes. At the end someone asked if I was ready to go home and I said "definitely." She looked completely shocked by reaction of wanting to go home so to each their own!
I guess if you have unlimited money and vacation time do it! But if like me, you save for something really unique and special and only have a couple times a year to travel, you may find a better suited adventure and luxurious vacation elsewhere for this price point.
Andie M.
Mar 13, 2022
I saved up and finally experienced Rancho La Puerta. Many aspects of it were delightful, but unfortunately there were some major letdowns as well. The fitness options were plentiful and I tried a lot of new activities. The cuisine was fresh and healthy--I was never hungry, despite running around all day. The promise I most looked forward to was the "no digital devices in public" at The Ranch. Unfortunately, this wasn't enforced.
I was interrupted during both a sound bath class and meditation class by guests using their phones. And a guest was texting away during the beginning of a labyrinth walk. The behaviour was absurd and reduced the experience for others. I contacted guest services about it and nothing changed. As a yogi of 25 years, I've never experienced cell phone usage in these settings.
Another serious disappointment was a guest speaker's rowdy teenagers. They were loud, throwing pillows at each other as we were settling into a meditation class. The guest speaker and instructor ignored it. I wouldn't recommend coming here for meditation or quiet time for these reasons. Someone needs to confiscate phones upon entry to these classes.
I hope they get better with their promise of the "digital detox" and offer a meditation 101 for the phone addicts. Some of the fitness classes were overfilled and advanced classes were attended by novices, making it frustrating for those who wanted advanced instruction. Again, the instructors didn't guide the newbies to the right class or cap the attendance.
For almost $1,000 a day, I didn't expect these issues. I met lovely people and for the most part, had a good time as I found alternatives to the meditation. The guest speakers covered a wide range of interesting topics. Also, the very limited alcohol was perfect-- it was nice to be around people who prioritize their health. I'll try The Ranch again.
I was interrupted during both a sound bath class and meditation class by guests using their phones. And a guest was texting away during the beginning of a labyrinth walk. The behaviour was absurd and reduced the experience for others. I contacted guest services about it and nothing changed. As a yogi of 25 years, I've never experienced cell phone usage in these settings.
Another serious disappointment was a guest speaker's rowdy teenagers. They were loud, throwing pillows at each other as we were settling into a meditation class. The guest speaker and instructor ignored it. I wouldn't recommend coming here for meditation or quiet time for these reasons. Someone needs to confiscate phones upon entry to these classes.
I hope they get better with their promise of the "digital detox" and offer a meditation 101 for the phone addicts. Some of the fitness classes were overfilled and advanced classes were attended by novices, making it frustrating for those who wanted advanced instruction. Again, the instructors didn't guide the newbies to the right class or cap the attendance.
For almost $1,000 a day, I didn't expect these issues. I met lovely people and for the most part, had a good time as I found alternatives to the meditation. The guest speakers covered a wide range of interesting topics. Also, the very limited alcohol was perfect-- it was nice to be around people who prioritize their health. I'll try The Ranch again.
S. K.
Feb 03, 2022
We expected world class services and amenities. However, the mattresses are old (one side of the bed was 2 inches lower than the other and it was hard as a rock keeping us awake). The villa floors were uncarpeted and the villa must be missing insulation as we were cold the entire time even though we set all the room heaters at 75-77 ((24-25 Celsius).
Our backs and feet hurt the entire time because of the hard cold tile floors and all the stone paths. We were put at the far end of the huge resort and missed many classes because of the distance to everything. Worse yet, we went for massages for relief but the masseuses didn't know what they were doing and made our backs worse than before. My husband who never has problems had to be rushed to a chiropractor after this and all the endless hard surfaces.
We must say that the grounds are lovely, the food very good, the staff was nice and those classes we could do with sore backs were great. Overall, though, we would not recommend spending 5000 a week here, and recommend go somewhere else with insulated rooms, carpets and decent therapists.
Our backs and feet hurt the entire time because of the hard cold tile floors and all the stone paths. We were put at the far end of the huge resort and missed many classes because of the distance to everything. Worse yet, we went for massages for relief but the masseuses didn't know what they were doing and made our backs worse than before. My husband who never has problems had to be rushed to a chiropractor after this and all the endless hard surfaces.
We must say that the grounds are lovely, the food very good, the staff was nice and those classes we could do with sore backs were great. Overall, though, we would not recommend spending 5000 a week here, and recommend go somewhere else with insulated rooms, carpets and decent therapists.
Maria Ash
Jan 28, 2022
This was my 4th stay at Rancho La Puerta and probably my last. The Ranch has changed and hasn't changed much over the last couple of years. Meaning? The Ranch needs an update. I stayed in one of the Lunas suite and for close to six thousand a week, I expect a shower/bathtub that is accessible, clean, and able to use as an actual bathtub. In addition, the sofa is the most uncomfortable seating ever and it is impossible to relax and lay down to read a book.
The classes need some updating too and some of the staff appear to have anger issues and several of the instructors were extremely unprofessional in their instructions and in their use of vulgar language during the class. I am not sure why they are hiring people that speak so poorly to their guest, but it was irritating after a while. I cannot tell you how disappointed I was with the several of the Yoga instructors and for several of the classes, we were just lectured at and we only did about 3 stretches while being forced to listen to the instructors rants.
The atmosphere was anything but kind and welcoming, it was the extreme opposite of the practice of Yoga. It was hostile and for those women who go to the Ranch to recover from past traumas, I do not recommend taking the Yoga classes until they overhaul the instructors. Spa: The VHC is old and also needs some updating. The Mexican tile is and was a good thing of the past, but Mexico has evolved so much and the Ranch needs too also.
The therapist at the spa on the other hand are the most professional and talented as they come. The activities directors needs to take some hints and advice from the spa director. Food: Same food year after year. A couple of new updates and dishes would be nice. However, the kitchen staff is exceptional and always willing to assist, as long as you do not ask for chicken, beef, or pig. Grounds: This is the one of best thing the Ranch has going for them. Beautiful grounds. Treatments: Like I said, the massage therapist are professional, kind, and extremely talented.
The classes need some updating too and some of the staff appear to have anger issues and several of the instructors were extremely unprofessional in their instructions and in their use of vulgar language during the class. I am not sure why they are hiring people that speak so poorly to their guest, but it was irritating after a while. I cannot tell you how disappointed I was with the several of the Yoga instructors and for several of the classes, we were just lectured at and we only did about 3 stretches while being forced to listen to the instructors rants.
The atmosphere was anything but kind and welcoming, it was the extreme opposite of the practice of Yoga. It was hostile and for those women who go to the Ranch to recover from past traumas, I do not recommend taking the Yoga classes until they overhaul the instructors. Spa: The VHC is old and also needs some updating. The Mexican tile is and was a good thing of the past, but Mexico has evolved so much and the Ranch needs too also.
The therapist at the spa on the other hand are the most professional and talented as they come. The activities directors needs to take some hints and advice from the spa director. Food: Same food year after year. A couple of new updates and dishes would be nice. However, the kitchen staff is exceptional and always willing to assist, as long as you do not ask for chicken, beef, or pig. Grounds: This is the one of best thing the Ranch has going for them. Beautiful grounds. Treatments: Like I said, the massage therapist are professional, kind, and extremely talented.
Pat S.
Oct 21, 2021
Bob F.
Aug 22, 2021
Execution of any service business and especially a high-end wellness resort is challenging, but I have never experienced a better one than that at Rancho La Puerta. Of about one hundred guests, there were only twelve of us for which it was the first time. I met few who had not been there at least 5-7 times if not more. Many feel it's their favorite place on the planet and who is to disagree.
Several travel/life style publications call this the #1 destination spa in the World. Situated just across the border about an hour and twenty minute bus ride from the San Diego Airport, this mountain Shangri La spans about 4,000 acres with 400 focused on the rooms, gyms, dining, pools, administration, etc. and the rest hiking paths and nature. The landscapes are attractive and well-attended and make for a tranquil experience.
There is an activity for learning, stretching, recuperating, building, exploring, or simply being for every personality and need. What separates this property from others is that since its founding in 1940, it has built an incredible sense of community. Outstanding guest lecturers and instructors, musicians, cooks, artists join a staff of more than 400 in serving a guest list of folks that is equally unique and attractive.
Such puts it well ahead of many luxurious other beautiful properties. In a week of literally hundreds if not thousands of interactions with the staff in classes, demonstrations, dining, lodging, travel arrangements, entertainment, etc. never a beat was missed - and it was done in a quiet, happy, professional, and pleasing manner. Spending a large part of my lifetime in operations and consulting, that amazed me and speaks to the leadership of 99-year old co-founder Deborah Szekely (along with her late husband) and her daughter Sara who now is the CEO. Deborah still speaks weekly there and you will Sara actively on the grounds.
Unless you are quick to speak first, the staff that speaks English will quickly offer you a heartfelt smile and "Good Morning" before you do. All wear masks all the time, and there are an abundance of double-filtered water and hand-cleaning stations about. (Guests have to show proof of vaccination or take a Covid-19 test and classrooms, gyms, blankets, and equipment were cleaned after every use. Additionally this area of Mexico is one of the safer areas in North America.) Adjacent to Tecate, Mexico and within short view of the border wall, about the only negative thing I discovered was the presence of outside road noise from parts of the property, but yes, I'm being a bit too sensitive.
The ambiance, meals, services, and activities are the perfect tonic to refresh and replenish no matter your personality. It's also the perfect spot to do nothing at all or fully engage; either way you will feel completely comfortable, safe, and at ease. The cost is not inconsequential, but I felt it was also an excellent value - something rare.
My wife absolutely loves this place and gushed about it since our second date. Now I am raving fan of Rancho La Puerta too! (P.S. - For what it's worth, as a professional travel and lifestyle reviewer and critic outside of Yelp, I can't conceive of or understand the few negative reviews that were posted.) I have met no other people including the fellow guests who don't absolutely love Rancho La Puerta.)
Several travel/life style publications call this the #1 destination spa in the World. Situated just across the border about an hour and twenty minute bus ride from the San Diego Airport, this mountain Shangri La spans about 4,000 acres with 400 focused on the rooms, gyms, dining, pools, administration, etc. and the rest hiking paths and nature. The landscapes are attractive and well-attended and make for a tranquil experience.
There is an activity for learning, stretching, recuperating, building, exploring, or simply being for every personality and need. What separates this property from others is that since its founding in 1940, it has built an incredible sense of community. Outstanding guest lecturers and instructors, musicians, cooks, artists join a staff of more than 400 in serving a guest list of folks that is equally unique and attractive.
Such puts it well ahead of many luxurious other beautiful properties. In a week of literally hundreds if not thousands of interactions with the staff in classes, demonstrations, dining, lodging, travel arrangements, entertainment, etc. never a beat was missed - and it was done in a quiet, happy, professional, and pleasing manner. Spending a large part of my lifetime in operations and consulting, that amazed me and speaks to the leadership of 99-year old co-founder Deborah Szekely (along with her late husband) and her daughter Sara who now is the CEO. Deborah still speaks weekly there and you will Sara actively on the grounds.
Unless you are quick to speak first, the staff that speaks English will quickly offer you a heartfelt smile and "Good Morning" before you do. All wear masks all the time, and there are an abundance of double-filtered water and hand-cleaning stations about. (Guests have to show proof of vaccination or take a Covid-19 test and classrooms, gyms, blankets, and equipment were cleaned after every use. Additionally this area of Mexico is one of the safer areas in North America.) Adjacent to Tecate, Mexico and within short view of the border wall, about the only negative thing I discovered was the presence of outside road noise from parts of the property, but yes, I'm being a bit too sensitive.
The ambiance, meals, services, and activities are the perfect tonic to refresh and replenish no matter your personality. It's also the perfect spot to do nothing at all or fully engage; either way you will feel completely comfortable, safe, and at ease. The cost is not inconsequential, but I felt it was also an excellent value - something rare.
My wife absolutely loves this place and gushed about it since our second date. Now I am raving fan of Rancho La Puerta too! (P.S. - For what it's worth, as a professional travel and lifestyle reviewer and critic outside of Yelp, I can't conceive of or understand the few negative reviews that were posted.) I have met no other people including the fellow guests who don't absolutely love Rancho La Puerta.)
Kenneth E. Goff
Jun 20, 2021
Nancy L.
Dec 15, 2019
Chelsea W.
Dec 01, 2019
Laurel Nordyke
Jun 27, 2019
First time visit to this iconic wellness spa and found the place to live up to its reputation. Very gracious staff, incredible lush grounds, spas and serves lovely, hikes and activities each day were fun and inspiring. The food, blown away! Very chill atmosphere, other guests were all nice to be with but you never felt crowded. Perfect get away from rat race.
DJean B.
May 19, 2019
Rebecca F.
Feb 26, 2019
Robin B.
Feb 09, 2019
What can I say? If you need to de-stress, improve your diet with clean healthy food, stretch, relax and exercise at your own pace this is the place for you. They have entertainment in the evening. The are amazing treatments in the men and women's health centers. Swimming pools and hot tubs in many convenient locations. Very interesting workshops with guest presenters.
The accommodations are beautiful. The entire staff from housekeepers to kitchen staff and waiters to landscape artist are wonderful. Every acre is beautifully landscaped. Everywhere you rest your eyes it is lovely. This is a completely restorative experience. I cannot praise it highly enough.
The accommodations are beautiful. The entire staff from housekeepers to kitchen staff and waiters to landscape artist are wonderful. Every acre is beautifully landscaped. Everywhere you rest your eyes it is lovely. This is a completely restorative experience. I cannot praise it highly enough.
Caroline O.
Sep 09, 2018
During my 10th visit to the ranch there was a stumble. A big stumble. My customer service expectations for the ranch are the highest based upon the bar they have set. They failed. And, because of their failure I was sick for a month. Part of this was my fault. I had become so comfortable and firmly believed that the ranch would always meet my needs that I traveled without some medications that I usually have with me (I had no idea you couldn't buy sudafed in Mexico over-the-counter).
My strong advice for anyone traveling to the ranch - take even over-the-counter meds with you. And, if you get sick, DO NOT ask to see the nurse. Instead, go to the front desk and ask to be taken to a doctor in town. I loved the ranch. It was my haven. This stumble was disappointing, but not earth shattering. The bronchitis I ended up with was miserable (and preventable). But, the response to my 2 page letter was even more of a disappointment. I hope the General Manager took my advice to heart. Despite all of this I absolutely recommend going.with any and all meds (even over-the-counter meds) with you.
My strong advice for anyone traveling to the ranch - take even over-the-counter meds with you. And, if you get sick, DO NOT ask to see the nurse. Instead, go to the front desk and ask to be taken to a doctor in town. I loved the ranch. It was my haven. This stumble was disappointing, but not earth shattering. The bronchitis I ended up with was miserable (and preventable). But, the response to my 2 page letter was even more of a disappointment. I hope the General Manager took my advice to heart. Despite all of this I absolutely recommend going.with any and all meds (even over-the-counter meds) with you.
Emma B.
Jul 23, 2018
Beautiful, restorative experience. The food was A+, all vegetarian (fish served occasionally, I believe) and the staff were all excellent. A highlight of my week was the "inner fitness program, " an inspiring, funny, healing class about cultivating kindness toward yourself and others and fundamentally living a better, more loving life - I recommend booking your trip for one of the weeks it is offered. Even the people who were skeptical of the idea of "inner fitness" loved it.
Melissa R.
Feb 17, 2018
The Ranch is set in the beautiful Tecate mountains. It's an invitation to escape from the daily grind, and our constant relationship with technology and just rest. The vegetarian food is excellent, the farmers who grow the food are passionate about their trade and the chickens are happy! The property itself is breathtaking, they have thought of everything, sunscreen by the pools, snacks in the lounge, fresh mint for tea, and friendly staff everywhere. You'll be entertained, stretched out, soothed and rejuvenated. Thanks to everyone at The Ranch!
Fred C.
Dec 31, 2017
Michael S.
Dec 08, 2016
In a nutshell it was a very revitalizing experience and we plan on returning. It is part summer camp for adults, part an opportunity to live off the grid and part indulgent spa. When you arrive you are asked to turn off your mobile phone and are given what they call a Cell Phone Sleeping Bag to "Help You Find Balance in your Digital Life." As there is limited Wi-Fi service and the cell reception is spotty at best, if you really can't disconnect, perhaps RLP isn't for you.
The day starts with a guided sunrise hike into the surrounding hills and the views are magnificent. There are different levels/distances, so beginners aren't left out. One should bring along hiking sneakers as the ground is uneven and in parts there are rocks to navigate over. Afterwards there is a tasty breakfast and time to get ready for the first class of the day.
There are many classes to choose from and you can take as many or as few as you wish. For those who never took Feldenkrais (or can't even spell it), this is a great way to be introduced to it. For those who know what it is, then you'll feel right at home. There are also a variety of yoga, dance, swimming, Pilates, mediation, cardio and stretch classes on offer and for those interested in other pursuits there are tennis, basketball and pickle ball.
There is also a full spa that offers all the usual services. We availed ourselves of a sculpturing class taught by Jose Ignacio Castaneda, and were surprised at how easy he made it look and how patient he was with us first timers. Likewise the jewelry design class taught by Jennifer Brandt who helped us fashion our own jewelry creation. We signed up for the Hands-on Cooking Class that was taught by Chef Kim O'Donnel.
As RLP grows most of its own food, we were first given a tour of the farm grounds and then participated in harvesting some ingredients for the class dinner. Afterwards we were then brought into the kitchen classroom where we were divided into teams and given a recipe to prepare under Kim's watchful eye. She was entertaining as well as instructive and she and her team made the evening memorable.
The service is top notch and the accommodations, while rustic, is first class. We stayed in one of the Sol villas, which had a fireplace that we made good use of each night. The food was great. It is organic and vegetarian with a few fish courses added on occasion and except for dinner, was served cafeteria style with large table seating to foster meeting the other guests.
It was surprising to learn the number of people who come year after year and one woman we met comes twice a year for two weeks each visit. The service is friendly and attentive. The grounds well laid out, meticulously landscaped, with enough signage so that first timer's like us couldn't get lost. There is no bar, so if you miss your evening libation either BYOB, or there is the Bazar del Sol wine bar with indoor/outdoor seating (and Wi-Fi) where you can have a glass of wine or order a bottle to take with you to enjoy in your villa.
The negatives relate to getting to and from RLP and the occasional sounds of the truck traffic on the highway that abuts RLP. There is no direct service to RLP from San Diego airport. You are met at the airport by their bus service - in our case two hours after our arrival time - and driven the two hours to the US/Mexican border at Tecate. There you collect your luggage and proceed to the Mexican Immigration station where they were x-rayed.
Once passed inspection you are then loaded into a small cramped van for the approximately twenty-minute drive to RLP. The other negative was that the quiet was sometimes broken by the sounds of the truck traffic traveling along the Interstate Highway that is right outside the gates of the RLP. The closer your villa is to the road the more pronounced it is.
The day starts with a guided sunrise hike into the surrounding hills and the views are magnificent. There are different levels/distances, so beginners aren't left out. One should bring along hiking sneakers as the ground is uneven and in parts there are rocks to navigate over. Afterwards there is a tasty breakfast and time to get ready for the first class of the day.
There are many classes to choose from and you can take as many or as few as you wish. For those who never took Feldenkrais (or can't even spell it), this is a great way to be introduced to it. For those who know what it is, then you'll feel right at home. There are also a variety of yoga, dance, swimming, Pilates, mediation, cardio and stretch classes on offer and for those interested in other pursuits there are tennis, basketball and pickle ball.
There is also a full spa that offers all the usual services. We availed ourselves of a sculpturing class taught by Jose Ignacio Castaneda, and were surprised at how easy he made it look and how patient he was with us first timers. Likewise the jewelry design class taught by Jennifer Brandt who helped us fashion our own jewelry creation. We signed up for the Hands-on Cooking Class that was taught by Chef Kim O'Donnel.
As RLP grows most of its own food, we were first given a tour of the farm grounds and then participated in harvesting some ingredients for the class dinner. Afterwards we were then brought into the kitchen classroom where we were divided into teams and given a recipe to prepare under Kim's watchful eye. She was entertaining as well as instructive and she and her team made the evening memorable.
The service is top notch and the accommodations, while rustic, is first class. We stayed in one of the Sol villas, which had a fireplace that we made good use of each night. The food was great. It is organic and vegetarian with a few fish courses added on occasion and except for dinner, was served cafeteria style with large table seating to foster meeting the other guests.
It was surprising to learn the number of people who come year after year and one woman we met comes twice a year for two weeks each visit. The service is friendly and attentive. The grounds well laid out, meticulously landscaped, with enough signage so that first timer's like us couldn't get lost. There is no bar, so if you miss your evening libation either BYOB, or there is the Bazar del Sol wine bar with indoor/outdoor seating (and Wi-Fi) where you can have a glass of wine or order a bottle to take with you to enjoy in your villa.
The negatives relate to getting to and from RLP and the occasional sounds of the truck traffic on the highway that abuts RLP. There is no direct service to RLP from San Diego airport. You are met at the airport by their bus service - in our case two hours after our arrival time - and driven the two hours to the US/Mexican border at Tecate. There you collect your luggage and proceed to the Mexican Immigration station where they were x-rayed.
Once passed inspection you are then loaded into a small cramped van for the approximately twenty-minute drive to RLP. The other negative was that the quiet was sometimes broken by the sounds of the truck traffic traveling along the Interstate Highway that is right outside the gates of the RLP. The closer your villa is to the road the more pronounced it is.
Kathryn M.
May 16, 2015
Had an amazing week here despite having concerns on first day about the vegetarian menu (I follow a Paleo type diet). And I really missed my kids! After first day or two, I was really enjoying the morning hikes, diverse fitness class options that were offered all day long and the spa treatments! (Spa is extra though). I highly recommend taking one of the cooking classes as they are led by amazing chefs. And the morning organic breakfast hike was lovely! Lastly, can't recommend crystal bowl sound healing more. Lovely meditative experience.
Joelle P.
Jul 02, 2013
Growing up I would always hear about ladies "going to the spa." It sounded pretty boring to me at the time, mostly because I had no clue what they did all day. Now that I've been to "the spa" (twice), I can report: It is my dream world. As in, I would live here full time if I could. Every morning I go on a hike, then play tennis, then go swimming/lay out, attend fabulous lectures in the afternoon and go to the spa. Does it get any better than that? Don't think so.
Definitely a better, more relaxing vacation than drinking on the beach. It nourishes the mind and body. And did I mention that all of the food and products at the spa are organic? Swoon! It is expensive, but worth every penny. I've already made my reservations for next year!
Definitely a better, more relaxing vacation than drinking on the beach. It nourishes the mind and body. And did I mention that all of the food and products at the spa are organic? Swoon! It is expensive, but worth every penny. I've already made my reservations for next year!
Katie G.
Mar 07, 2011
I went to RLP for a week in mid-January. I hesitate to refer to it as a "spa" because I think that conjures up the wrong image in most people's minds. Maybe "retreat" is a better term. Anyway, I'd been to similar places before, but smaller, so I do think it took me a few days to get used to the size of the place, mostly in terms of guest to staff ratio. Plus, I arrived still suffering from a cold so I felt pretty rotten and had little energy.
By the end of the week, though, I'd become a convert. One minor issue is that I didn't love the big bus trip from San Diego airport, although I think it's great that transfers are available and included in the price. I was exhausted from taking the 6 am flight out of DC and flying via Chicago--and I got stuck in the middle of a separate group that was just there for their own corporate retreat for a few days.
They were obnoxious. The guy next to me had his huge camera in my face the whole time, was totally unfriendly, and.anyway, never saw them again thankfully. It's a gorgeous place, of course, in an amazing setting. And the options for activities are amazing. The staff is (with very few exceptions) amazing. And the speakers they attract each week are great.
I was lucky to have Bela Fleck there at the same time--he went on hikes with everyone, and was next to me in yoga. I've long been a fan of his music so that was a nice draw and bonus. The crowd tends to be a bit older with most people in their 50s but all age groups are represented. The web site makes it clear that they don't want people to mistake it for fat camp--"where healthy people get healthier" or something is the slogan. It's a challenge fitting in all of the experiences. Sculpture class was great--except that I couldn't take my "torso" home without paying $400 to get it cast in bronze and sent to me.
Oh well. I missed jewelry making--everyone liked that. The dance classes were a lot of fun. Hazel teaches hula hoop and strip tease. I've since bought a hula hoop from the company that makes them for the ranch. The food is, as others have said, great. I have one complaint though--the choices aren't clearly labeled as far as major ingredients.
I was eating bircher muesli all week before I found out there was milk in it. Ugh. I suggest to anyone with any food intolerances or allergies that you establish a relationship with the kitchen staff early on--and don't be shy about asking for something individual. For example, some people wanted scrambled eggs and just asked. I had two massages and reflexology--the latter, i highly recommend.
And the massages were very good. Some people said they didn't like the main women's massage center but I didn't mind it. The newer one on the hill by the Villas is newer and fancier certainly. The main one has a whirlpool on the sheltered patio, where you can lie nekkid and get some much-needed sunshine. (Hey, I'd just had blood tests showing my Vit D levels are way too low.) It is expensive for a lot of us plebes--but it was a great way to spend a week.
By the end of the week, though, I'd become a convert. One minor issue is that I didn't love the big bus trip from San Diego airport, although I think it's great that transfers are available and included in the price. I was exhausted from taking the 6 am flight out of DC and flying via Chicago--and I got stuck in the middle of a separate group that was just there for their own corporate retreat for a few days.
They were obnoxious. The guy next to me had his huge camera in my face the whole time, was totally unfriendly, and.anyway, never saw them again thankfully. It's a gorgeous place, of course, in an amazing setting. And the options for activities are amazing. The staff is (with very few exceptions) amazing. And the speakers they attract each week are great.
I was lucky to have Bela Fleck there at the same time--he went on hikes with everyone, and was next to me in yoga. I've long been a fan of his music so that was a nice draw and bonus. The crowd tends to be a bit older with most people in their 50s but all age groups are represented. The web site makes it clear that they don't want people to mistake it for fat camp--"where healthy people get healthier" or something is the slogan. It's a challenge fitting in all of the experiences. Sculpture class was great--except that I couldn't take my "torso" home without paying $400 to get it cast in bronze and sent to me.
Oh well. I missed jewelry making--everyone liked that. The dance classes were a lot of fun. Hazel teaches hula hoop and strip tease. I've since bought a hula hoop from the company that makes them for the ranch. The food is, as others have said, great. I have one complaint though--the choices aren't clearly labeled as far as major ingredients.
I was eating bircher muesli all week before I found out there was milk in it. Ugh. I suggest to anyone with any food intolerances or allergies that you establish a relationship with the kitchen staff early on--and don't be shy about asking for something individual. For example, some people wanted scrambled eggs and just asked. I had two massages and reflexology--the latter, i highly recommend.
And the massages were very good. Some people said they didn't like the main women's massage center but I didn't mind it. The newer one on the hill by the Villas is newer and fancier certainly. The main one has a whirlpool on the sheltered patio, where you can lie nekkid and get some much-needed sunshine. (Hey, I'd just had blood tests showing my Vit D levels are way too low.) It is expensive for a lot of us plebes--but it was a great way to spend a week.
Theresa S.
Sep 21, 2007
Trying to review this place makes me feel like I'm watching a tennis match. I keep going back and forth. The Serve: On the one hand, the ranch is like a slice of heaven. I'd been to Tecate and other borders towns countless times, and never, ever, would I have expected such a miraculously spiritual place as this to be resting on the heels of a US/Mexican Border Crossing. (It is literally a five minute drive away from the Tecate border crossing).
The Return: That said, it does feel incongruous with the rest of the town, and I wondered more than a few times at the amount of money the joint was sucking in. The Volley: Stil, a week here wiped away most of that cynicism and made me think more positively about the world. And Back Again: Four stars from me because it is too pricey for most folks, and because when I asked for a partial week, they never explained the parameters of what was included and not included in the package.
And Again: That said, they comped me a few treatments, and all told, this is still the most affordable destination spa in Northern America. Ah, I give up. Here's some of the highlights: *Seeing a Silver Fox a stone's throw in front of me *Amazingly satisfying organic spa food, most of which is grown right on the ranch, and harvested directly for your table. *The most amazing service I've ever experienced at any kind of hotel or service oriented business. Seriously.
Best ever. *A gorgeously landscaped native garden which almost (*sigh*) drowns out the sight and sound of the busy Tecate-Tijuana road. *Meeting the most amazing women, hearing world-class lectures, and participating in top-notch exercise classes every day. Well, I certainly hope this review didn't make you dizzy. It still feels like a lot of back-and-forth. Perhaps I'll need to go back and give a full week to make up my mind, and I'll have to take my Mom with me. If only to help off-set the costs!
The Return: That said, it does feel incongruous with the rest of the town, and I wondered more than a few times at the amount of money the joint was sucking in. The Volley: Stil, a week here wiped away most of that cynicism and made me think more positively about the world. And Back Again: Four stars from me because it is too pricey for most folks, and because when I asked for a partial week, they never explained the parameters of what was included and not included in the package.
And Again: That said, they comped me a few treatments, and all told, this is still the most affordable destination spa in Northern America. Ah, I give up. Here's some of the highlights: *Seeing a Silver Fox a stone's throw in front of me *Amazingly satisfying organic spa food, most of which is grown right on the ranch, and harvested directly for your table. *The most amazing service I've ever experienced at any kind of hotel or service oriented business. Seriously.
Best ever. *A gorgeously landscaped native garden which almost (*sigh*) drowns out the sight and sound of the busy Tecate-Tijuana road. *Meeting the most amazing women, hearing world-class lectures, and participating in top-notch exercise classes every day. Well, I certainly hope this review didn't make you dizzy. It still feels like a lot of back-and-forth. Perhaps I'll need to go back and give a full week to make up my mind, and I'll have to take my Mom with me. If only to help off-set the costs!
