From yoga retreats to living like a monk, rejuvenating the mind and body is one of the travel industry’s top trends for 2023.
The need to unplug and reboot is largely due to fast-paced lifestyles, increased stress factors and post-pandemic lag.
California has long been a mecca for travellers seeking a higher level of health, fitness and inner peace. Retreats can be found all across the Golden State, from the beachy yoga culture in Southern California to the breezily beautiful Central Coast and remote northern regions. Discover five of the best wellness experiences for 2023 in California.
Live like a monk in Shasta Abbey, Mount Shasta
Achieve a more profound sense of self through a stay at Shasta Abbey. This Buddhist monastery welcomes outsiders into its beautiful, sacred space, located on a 16-acre forest near the base of Mount Shasta. The three-day Introductory Retreat encourages visitors to try Soto Zen through guided meditation, Dharma talks, and mindfulness.
Soak in a desert oasis at Two Bunch Palms, Desert Hot Springs
Two Bunch Palms, a former favourite of Al Capone, the resort has more recently hosted Julia Roberts, Meryl Streep, Madonna, and more. Thanks to natural aquifers found in Desert Hot Springs (30 minutes outside of Palm Springs), guests can soak in healing mineral water under the shade of tamarisk trees. The spa menu encourages adventure through unique therapies, including water shiatsu, sound vibration healing and shaman-lead classes.
Find your centre, then ride waves with a Surf & Stay retreat, San Diego
Up your fitness, SoCal-style, with a Surf & Stay retreat in San Diego. Guests can choose from weekend or five-day packages, both of which include accommodations at Blue Sea Beach Hotel, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Guests will be fully kitted out in head-to-toe surfing gear while enjoying unlimited lessons and surf tours up and down the San Diego coast. Yoga classes, guided bike tours and stand-up paddleboarding lessons are offered too.
Relax with curated cannabis in Mendocino County
Incorporating cannabis into wellness has become more popular and for those who would like to combine the CBD trend with travelling, Mendocino is a place to be. Key takes on integrating CBD and cannabis products into a visit include a session at Fort Bragg’s The Bakery, featuring artisanal cannabis products presented in bakery-style display cases. In Ukiah, visitors can head to Plantshop for a selection of local sun-grown herb or a medicated yoga session. Located in the most southern tip of Mendocino County, Gualala’s High Tides offers up full service of “compassionate cannabis care”.
Relax with yoga and wine in Westerbeke Ranch, Sonoma
It’s all about balance at Westerbeke Ranch in Sonoma where Body Flows hosts regular retreats. It includes daily yoga classes, meditation, hikes, healthy farm-to-table meals, and nightly tastings best enjoyed before a dip in the hot tub. Visitors can retire to the private or shared cabin, nestled in among trees and gardens.
For more information www.visitcalifornia.com
