A Luxury Escape in San Diego

You know when sitting on a cushy lounge chair with a book and cool beverage (maybe even a glass of rosé) feels like the most productive thing you could be doing? That’s how it feels to stay at Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa. The property is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city just North of San Diego. Here, it’s practically your job to lay poolside, enjoy a game of tennis, and dine on the patio. Let your worries subside, and take a trip with us for a minute to this luxury escape in San Diego. By the bottom of the page, you’ll be booking your stay.

To start, let’s take you on a walk through our casita. Yep, those are the aforementioned lounge chairs you can enjoy right in your own casita’s ‘backyard.’ Hop back and forth between lying here and dipping in the jacuzzi and we promise you’ll be one happy camper. When you’ve thoroughly enjoyed the sunshine, cozy up in your room’s sitting room or jacuzzi tub and relax even more… if that’s possible.

However, we love the accommodations at Rancho Valencia for more than their serene retreat feel. The rooms are stunningly beautiful with Mediterranean influence from floor to ceiling, they’re equipped with espresso machines and mini bars (in which everything is included!), and they feel incredibly private and inviting.

If you do ever find yourself leaving the room (we’re only sort-of kidding) there are plenty of activities on site to keep you busy. Enjoy a game of tennis on one of the many courts, a game of croquet, checkers, corn hole or badminton on the lawn, or swim in one of the various pools. We tried our hand at all of the above.

But what truly makes Rancho Valencia unique when it comes to activities is its incredible spa and fitness facilities. People from all over come to the property just to visit the spa and enjoy a facial or massage in one of the courtyard rooms. Not only is it a restful & peaceful experience, but also one-of-a-kind thanks to their truly special treatment options.

When it comes to fitness, the resort offers a full schedule of exercise classes in addition to a fully stocked gym. We were lucky enough to take a morning yoga class at the Yoga Pavilion. The beautiful room opens up to an infinity pond and is surrounded by lush greenery. It’s not only a good workout for the body but for the mind and soul as well! In addition to yoga, you can take a variety of pilates, TRX, and weight classes. Try one of each throughout your stay to take advantage of all the amazing options!

You’ll be happy you partook in many of the workouts once you taste the food (insert our wide-eyed expression). The Pony Room offers light fare from flatbread pizzas to Mexican street corn, while Veladora offers a more upscale dining experience with fare to match! From lobster pot pie to Mediterranean cuisine, the ‘coastal ranch’ menu has something delicious for everyone. We highly recommend experiencing both and even indulging in room service for breakfast, where we implore you to order Huevos Rancheros and a Valencia Smoothie.

Now that your mouth is watering, you’ll have to pay a visit to Rancho Valencia for at least a meal ;). However, stay a weekend, week, or even longer and you won’t regret it. It’s easy to see why this incredible escape was voted the #1 Hotel in California by U.S. News & World Report. And if we didn’t convince you, that title should ;).