What is it about California that makes it so naturally suited for spa culture? A population obsessed with health and wellness? A beautiful and varied landscape, rich with earthly treasures? A widely shared sentiment for joie de vivre? Perhaps all of the above. And it’s most fortunate when you can experience the best of the Golden State in one glorious place.
Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa, set among 45 acres of gardens and olive and citrus groves just outside Del Mar north of San Diego, might be one of the most beautiful enclaves in Southern California. And thanks to the personalized service and fully loaded accommodations, it also feels like coming home.
The property boasts 49 well-appointed, hacienda-style suites or casitas, each with a variety of features including a fireplace, deluxe bathroom, dining area, commissioned artwork and more. Spacious patios offer the perfect spot to sip the complimentary, freshly squeezed orange juice each morning as you read the newspaper of your choice.
As part of the recent renovation to the award-winning spa facility, the resort introduced two new accommodations: Casa Valencia and the Spa House. With five bedrooms, Casa Valencia is perfect for families and features a Mexican and Moroccan motif. The four-bedroom Spa House sticks with the Spanish Colonial stylings of the resort with a soothing palette and vintage touches.
The new spa, redesigned during the pandemic, elevates an already five-star experience of self-discovery, wellness, fitness and relaxation. Highlights include a state-of-the-art fitness center; brand new salon with hair, manicure and pedicure services; expanded retail area; and updated men’s and women’s locker rooms, lounges and relaxation area.
Then there are the treatments. It’s hard to go wrong with any of the options on the menu, but worth pointing out is the new partnership with luxury French skin care line Biologique Recherche. The spa will now offer three signature treatments: a 60-minute or 90-minute facial and an eye-mask booster.
Biologique Recherche is famed for its “results-driven” approach and extensive collection, meaning that every single treatment is completely customizable. Prior to every Biologique Recherche treatment, guests will have a consultation with their facialist (trained in specific techniques to address loss of volume, toning, brightening, hydrating and smoothing) to discuss their specific goals. From there they can determine which products and techniques from the collection will be most effective, impactful and beneficial.
All fresh and rejuvenated, you can nourish yourself at Rein, a poolside retreat located in the adult pool area with delicious lunch options and crafted cocktails. The Pony Room, the resort’s signature restaurant and bar, makes a great meeting place morning, noon or night. The equestrian-themed venue draws inspiration from classic American icons including John Wayne, James Dean and Johnny Cash. If weather permits, enjoy an alfresco dinner overlooking the Croquet Lawn.
Rancho Valencia is ranked the #1 tennis resort by Tennis Magazine, hosting 14 beautiful Plexipave championship courts, two European red clay courts and four pickleball courts. Whether you’re a Nadal or Williams in the making or just a curious novice, a talented resort instructor can help you improve your serve.
If golf is more your game, the resort can get you on the most prestigious fairways with a Stay & Play Golf package, including complimentary use of brand-new men’s and women’s Callaway golf clubs. Let the concierge book your tee time and enjoy some of San Diego’s most coveted courses.
