Oh my, Ojai. Seeking new adventures and respite from my crazy-busy schedule, I headed to sunny southern California for a quick escape last May. A good friend had recommended The Oaks at Ojai as the perfect getaway sanctuary for rest, relaxation and exploration.
After a connecting flight in San Francisco, I arrived at the Santa Barbara Airport for my reserved shuttle to Ojai. Any trip that begins with sunny blue skies, warm breezes, palm trees and a welcoming driver is off to a promising start. Meandering the backroads to our destination showcased the stunning local landscape against the backdrop of the Santa Ynez mountain range.
Upon arrival, just a brief glance and walk around the premises convinced me that I’d be very happy here for the next few days.
From the spa resort entry, to my own private courtyard . . .
that opened to my quiet haven . . .
After reviewing the wide range of activities offered during my stay, I opted to start off the next day with the 7:30AM morning stroll. An early riser, I’m used to starting my day anytime between 4:30AM and 5:30AM so I saw no need to set my alarm the night before. Oops. I woke up at 7:45AM. Happily off the hook for my walk, I chose to lounge a little longer in my cocoon before heading off to breakfast.
After my unintended sleep-in, I could easily see why so many guests of The Oaks at Ojai are repeat visitors. Such peaceful, unpretentious surroundings create a mindful approach to self-care. Whether you want to unplug, relax and recharge, shed stress and soak up the sun, or boost fitness through rigorous activity, the destination resort offers total comfort and support.
Owner Sheila Cluff founded The Oaks at Ojai to inspire guests on a path of healthful living based on her own successful career in figure skating, motivational speaking and entrepreneurship. Her mantra is “Keep moving” because “What’s the point of becoming successful and retired if you’re not fit to enjoy it?” Cluff says. Still, “Chronologically enriched guests only have to go as fast as your slowest part here.”
As a fitness expert and trailblazer in the spa industry, Cluff advocates a holistic approach to health and well-being as evidenced by the quality of programming on site.
Activities range from gentle morning stretches, yoga and aqua classes to cardio, Pilates, hiking and dance. Life classes cover fun topics like handwriting analysis or thought-provoking discussions of personal journeys, reinvention and nutrition.
Wondering how you, too, can enjoy a wellness week/weekend at The Oaks at Ojai? Check out the Calendar of Events to explore the options for planning your own solo adventure, mom/daughter, girlfriend or his and her getaway.
Wander on!
Nancy
Some, though not all, of my costs were covered by my host.
What’s most appealing about a stay at The Oaks for you, wanderboomers?
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