By: ERIN MICHELLE NEWBERG
LOCAL SPA CULTURE SETS THE GLOBAL BAR IN SELF-CARE. A LOOK AT A TROIKA OF SWANKY SANATORIUMS THAT DELIVERS BIG FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA RANKINGS.
GOLDEN DOOR
SAN MARCOS, CA
Regarded as the pinnacle of wellness retreats, this legendary sanctuary is the apex of rejuvenation for the body, mind, and spirit. Established in 1958 by Deborah Szekely, the visionary behind Rancho La Puerta, this iconic destination has garnered global acclaim over decades of changing trends and shifting mindsets. Golden Door boasts a legacy spanning over six decades, continually evolving, pioneering innovative wellness programs, and setting the standard for holistic health retreats worldwide. With its 600-acre expanse and 40 elegantly appointed rooms, it holds a magnetic allure and despite its opulent surroundings, the ambiance remains refreshingly unassuming.
Before arrival, Golden Door’s team crafts a meticulous schedule tailored to every guest’s preferences. And unlike mass-market resorts, each room throughout maintains a limited occupancy, ensuring that each guest receives individualized attention and care. Each structured itinerary, delineated by the hour, outlines spa appointments, private sessions, and personal training activities encompassing stretch sessions, water aerobics, yoga, dance programs, and Pilates. The body treatments extend beyond conventional offerings. With indulgent heated body wraps infused with locally sourced rosemary, rejuvenating Biologique Recherche facials, and optional enhancements, such as ayurvedic scalp drips administered by skilled practitioners, Golden Door has earned countless awards and worldwide fanfare. With its location amidst mountains, often capped with snow, this spa is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The opportunities to connect with nature are endless, from invigorating hikes through scenic trails to rejuvenating yoga sessions in the open air, swimming, cycling, nature walks, and outdoor meditation sessions. Guests can also delve into enlightening courses by renowned experts on sleep optimization and nutritional wellness.
Speaking of nutrition, Golden Door serves portion-controlled gourmet meals using fresh produce harvested on-site, while top-quality proteins are thoughtfully sourced from local suppliers. Guests can enjoy their meals in a communal setting, where beautifully set tables and impeccable service elevate the dining experience, or opt for private dining in the tranquility of their suites. Dining at Golden Door is focused on mindfulness and before eating, guests are encouraged to pause, and reflect, expressing gratitude for the nourishment before them. This practice of mindful eating fosters a deeper connection to the food while promoting a sense of presence and appreciation for the culinary experience – delivering another notch in Golden Door’s excellence. goldendoor.com
CAL-A-VIE HEALTH SPA
VISTA, CA
For those seeking a relaxing yet luxurious getaway focused on a tailor-made fitness program, Cal-a-Vie is just what the doctor ordered. Think a delicious yet clean 1500-calorie-a-day culinary experience, and a workout selection provided by experts renowned in their respective fields, delivered on a posh property evoking the spirit of a European chateau.
Located in Vista, this 500-acre perfectly manicured property is considered one of California’s best-kept secrets. This may be about to change, however, as it recently received Conde Nast Traveler’s “Top 10 Best Spas in the World” Readers’ Choice Award. A haven concealed by a sliding metal gate, Cal-a-Vie opens for its guests arriving in chauffeured Lexus SUVs. A swift check-in exposes a plethora of wellness options. From fitness classes and nutritional counseling to spa treatments and holistic therapies, the offerings cater to diverse preferences and objectives, culminating in three-, four-, or seven-day stays.
Splendid for fitness rigor, options include up to eight classes per hour at your fingertips, from early morning hikes to spinning, TRX, cortisol balance, pickleball, and deep meditation. Gym equipment is state-of-the-art, too! As are the various facilities and amenities.
The accommodations at Cal-a-Vie are equally impressive, with elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites providing a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for relaxation. The spa’s attention to detail is evident throughout, from the plush furnishings to the thoughtful amenities and attentive staff. In addition to its world-class facilities, Cal-a-Vie offers a variety of activities and excursions to enhance the guest experience. Whether exploring the nearby hiking trails, trying out TRX, cortisol balance, pickleball, or participating in cooking classes or deep meditation, there are plenty of enrichment opportunities.
Some other standouts on the property include a massive outdoor labyrinth, a tranquil and meditative space for reflection and contemplation. Weekly stargazing sessions at the Cal-a-Vie’s observatory casts a lens at distant galaxies. Under the guidance of experienced staff, guests can learn about celestial objects and gain insights into the science of astronomy. Culinarily-wise, Executive Chef Felipe Gonzalez Varon brings star power to his leadership of the kitchen, while also offering wine tasting and cooking classes. There is something for everyone, indeed. | cal-a-vie.com
WE CARE SPA
DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA
Nestled in the heart of Desert Hot Springs, California, about 15 minutes from Palm Springs, We Care Spa transcends the ordinary. Its renown as the ultimate destination for rejuvenation is as crystal as the quartzes and amethysts scattered across the grounds. Just ask Bradley Cooper, Ozzy Osbourne, Donna Karan, or Gisele Bündchen, who frequent the establishment for its top-notch pampering, result-yielding cleanse, and five-star fasting regimen.
Still family-owned, the modern property is more than a pretty face. Like the detox it champions, We Care delves deeper, integrating elements such as selenate, clear quartz, amethyst, and obsidian into its architecture to deliver on the promise of personal transformation.
Guests are encouraged to pre-book appointments to maintain focus. The spa’s highly skilled therapists offer over 40 unparalleled services to complement the cleansing process, from deep tissue massages to invigorating body wraps. All treatments are conducted on heated amethyst mats, renowned for enhancing endocrine function, immune system support, and digestive health while aiding in releasing toxins, bile, mucus, and debris. The fasting regimen, combined with colonics, alleviates bloating, relieves constipation,
and boosts vitality. Participants in daily colon therapy can opt for add-ons such as chlorophyll, charcoal, or even caffeine.
The cleanse is supported by meticulously calculated liquid intake, with in-suite refrigerators, electrolyte packets at every corner, a liquid bar by the pool, and a fully-equipped, commercial kitchen emphasizing hydration.
Blood-purifying and kidney-supporting teas are expertly concocted with lemon pulp and nutritious condiments like Bragg’s Coconut Aminos, garlic, bio-salt, and cayenne to curb hunger. Evenings culminate with nourishing soup servings, aimed at providing guests unparalleled mental clarity. Whether you lean entirely into the process or partake in some of the treatments and protocols on the menu, the experience at We Care Spa is cleansing in every sense. | wecarespa.com