Spa Ojai in California gives whole new meaning to the word “relax.” The 31,000-square foot spa has the charm and ambience of a quaint Mediterranean village but seems more like an afternoon daydream.

The elegant interiors found in Spa Ojai reflect the Moorish influence on Spanish Colonial architecture. But because the natural beauty of the Ojai Valley is so inspiring, guests are encouraged to spend as much time as possible outdoors. Guests gather fresh herbs in the garden for a wreath-making class, join a morning hike, or embark on a meditative walk in the Labyrinth.

Golf, tennis, horseback riding, bird watching, spinning, water aerobic classes and biking are also an important part of the experience. Tai Chi classes are often held on the lawn, while art studio classes move outdoors for plein air painting classes.

The 1,600-square-foot Mind/Body Center includes fully equipped weight room, cardiovascular workout area and a studio for classes in Tai Chi, yoga, spinning and meditation. A process-oriented approach to exercise is emphasized and guests participate in modern and ancient workout modalities that integrate motion with thoughts and images designed to awaken inner energy.

Single night rates begin at $330. For more information, check out www.ojairesort.com.

Andy Summa is a freelance writer in Sugar Land, Texas.

THAILAND:

• Samui Dharma Healing Center

• Kimiora

CANADA:

• Leading Spas of Canada
• Retreats Online
• Natural Doc

• Pura Vida Spa

UNITED STATES:

• Retreat Finder
• Lake Austin
• New Age Health Spa
• Hiking.com
• Ojai Resort
• Red Mountain Spa
• Creative Health Center
• Cool Font
• Adventure Health Travel
• NWLR
• Ten Thousand Waves

• New Age Health Spa
• Harbin Hot Spa
• Expanding Light
• IH Retreat
• Kripalu Shop

• Green Mountain
• Women’s Quest

• Primavera Mexico Resort
• Solsierra

• Skyros

• Lagos Del Sol

• Health Retreat
• Couran

• Moinhos--Velhos

ARE YOU READY TO BE “BLISSED OUT”?

Rancho La Puerta, is a quiet secluded hideaway where world class pampering for your mind and body will melt your cares away.

Located close to San Diego, it has a temperate climate year round.

You can work out, hike, do yoga, dine at your leisure, putt around in their organic garden that grows the vegetables you eat for dinner or just watch the sunset over the mountains—enjoying the balmy air.

It is a little pricey , but well worth it and it is usually booked up so make reservations well in advance. Or take their online tour...their website is a small vacation in itself!

go there...