One long weekend at Rancho Valencia easily proves why the resort continuously nabs high marks in nearly every travel publication thanks to its exceptional service and values. The most amazing part? You won’t need a passport to lodge in your very own casita.
I wouldn’t blame you if you woke up at Rancho Valencia and thought you somehow might be at a luxurious resort in the Mediterranean or south of the border. The picturesque, green grounds and hacienda-style suites combined with the balmy southern California weather has that transformative effect on the place. The resort has topped the lists for hotels and spas in Forbes, earning the coveted five-stars for the last five years, while simultaneously garnering the AAA Five Diamond award.
The sprawling resort located in Rancho Sante Fe is just a quick half-hour drive from San Diego, making excursions into the city easy when the mood strikes. But believe all the hype—Rancho Valencia is the place you wish that you could call home, so why would you ever want to leave? Here are five reasons to book your next getaway at Rancho Valencia.
1. The accommodations and staff go above and beyond.
The resort offers three styles of luxury living in luxe casitas that are furnished with Spanish-style furniture and décor. I stayed in a suite, but families could opt for a 3,500 square-foot luxury villa or a private hacienda that has its own kitchen, perfect for larger groups of families and friends that wish to stay together.
Still, and I use the term loosely, the “average” suites can make you feel like royalty with a huge bed, spacious seating area, a gargantuan bathroom equipped with a separate shower and tub, walk-in closet, an outdoor patio and your very own fireplace. Every night after dinner, as soon as I stepped into my casita, the fire was already lit and waiting for me to kick off my shoes and plop down on an armchair to relax with my Kindle. It’s these little details that make it clear why the resort is so highly rated.
There were many other first-class touches that gave me the impression that I wasn’t just at any other hotel or resort. When housekeeping stopped by while I was out, they would neatly wrap up my charging cords, securing them with a velcro strap. Every morning, a pitcher of freshly squeezed orange juice waited on a ledge by the front door. The mini-bar was completely complimentary, stocked with snacks and beverages. I truly felt spoiled!
2. It’s a spa lover’s dream come true.
The Spa at Rancho Valencia is separate from the main building and the casitas that dot the property. Once you’ve passed through the check-in area, it’s like being transported all over again, perhaps to Italy to bask in the sun by the pool, surrounded by olive and palm trees, complete with cabanas and food and drink service. It’s also where many of the resort’s fitness activities are housed (more on that next).
After checking in and hanging out in one of the tranquil waiting areas stocked with healthy treats, teas and juices, I was more than ready for my hot stone massage. As I’m writing this story in a stiff office chair, I wish I could book another appointment; I felt completely rejuvenated and blissed out after my treatment. Friends of mine opted for other treatments that showcased the gamut of services offered. One had a facial and a body scrub to slough off dull skin to reveal a glowing layer underneath. Another tried one of the spa’s custom wellness “rituals” that included aromatherapy, a facial massage and guided meditation. Out-of-the-box treatments like that showcased why the spa has become so popular.
3. The workout classes are plenty and complimentary!
At the spa complex, there is a gorgeous yoga pavilion that’s Instagram-worthy thanks to a floating platform in the center of a pool. Pilates lovers will love the fully-equipped studio with classes for all levels. If getting drenched in sweat is your thing, try the spin studio across the way. As stated above, the classes are complimentary for guests—yes, you read that right. Be sure to sign up for a session or two during your stay to not only feel relaxed, but also accomplished, especially if you happened to binge on the minibar offerings on the first night like I did.
During my stay, I learned that Rancho Valencia is also considered a world-class tennis resort. They had just installed red clay courts, an uncommon feature in the U.S. but recognizable for fans of the French Open. The distinctive clay courts provide more support for softer landings. Guests have access to complimentary court time as well, and private lessons can be arranged. I had the privilege of taking a lesson and running drills with Robin White, a two-time U.S. Open Champion.
4. Guilt-free food with fresh, locally-sourced dining options to whet your appetite.
Rancho Valencia has two main, on-site eateries. Veladora serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in a large, chic dining room while the Pony Room has a saloon-like bar and outdoor seating for lunch and dinner. Both have seasonal menus with a Mediterranean slant. On the afternoon I arrived, I had a late lunch that consisted of poached eggs and avocado toast topped with sprouts. It set the tone for the rest of my dining experience—simple food with a sophisticated touch.
5. There’s something for everyone.
Rancho Valencia’s unique and heightened attention to details make it a great destination for couples and honeymooners. Everything is so thought out at the resort, and the atmosphere is romantic.
That’s not to say that the resort isn’t family friendly. There’s a dedicated family pool and plenty of lawn games and activities outside the Pony Room for all ages to enjoy. Tennis lessons are also available for children. Plus, with San Diego in close proximity, the resort makes an excellent home base for day trips to La Jolla Beach, Sea World or the San Diego Zoo. Just picture a long day ending with a soak in a large tub or cozying up to a fire in your casita.
And of course, for any wellness fanatic, the luxurious place is a great blend of relaxation while keeping up with your exercise and nutrition goals.
No matter the purpose for your vacation, make a play for Rancho Valencia and you’re sure to score it fives across the board. H
Originally published in the Winter 2019 issue of H Texas.
Edited by Amanda Altman. Photos courtesy of Rancho Valencia