Blogger Bliss at Rancho La Puerta

A few weeks ago I was invited to visit Rancho La Puerta, in Tecate, Mexico. I’m here this week as a part of an international group of bloggers to experience this incredible resort and spa. I am truly excited to share Rancho La Puerto with you as I’m inspired just being here.

We met yesterday at the San Diego airport and boarded a coach bus for the hour-long ride to the ranch, just over the border in Tecate, Mexicao. The light at the end of the tunnel, on in this case, the resort at the end of the very windy bus ride, was certainly worth the wait.

The grounds are beautiful…. old red brick hacienda style buildings scattered over hundreds of acres. The scent of flowers and herbs are at every turn in the brick pathways that connect the more than 100 buildings. Just walking to our villa was a 1720 steps! Yes, I only know this because the room comes complete with a pedometer. Everything is very spread out, but the grounds are exquisite. So far I’ve only gotten lost once. Fortunately there are signs throughout the property, once again displaying the overwhelming amount of choices.

The variety each day is staggering. Do I want to go on a 4-mile 6am hike, or sleep in a bit and then enjoy yoga or pilates after breakfast, or just go to the weight room whenever, or perhaps take a class? Options include different levels for most exercise classes from hard-core athletes, to hula-hoop classes for those just looking for some fun.

I feel like I’m a kid at camp again. Even my artistic side can enjoy watercolor, jewelry making, sketching or even singing classes. There are a plethora of spiritual and/or educational classes including The Art of Happiness, Cooking, Nutrition and the Truth about Sleep. But wait, there’s more…. there’s an entire menu of massage, facials, salon services, wraps and all the other related spa treatments. It’s so decadently delicious and I’m feeling incredibly spoiled- and very grateful for this experience.

Last night after a group dinner I stayed in the main dining area after everyone else had gone, so that I could use the internet. By the time I left to return to my villa, there was no one in sight. It was a chilly night with temperatures in the 30’s, with a light misty fog covering the grounds. The smoke from the many villa fireplaces added to the almost eerie setting. After making only one wrong turn in the dark, I found my way back to my villa, cracked the window for some fresh air and crawled into bed by 9:30pm! The sound of howling coyotes serenaded me throughout the night.

Today was filled with classes and an exquisite deep tissue massage followed by a brainstorming session with the 17 other bloggers that are here. I can’t think of anywhere I’d rather be today than here at Rancho La Puerta.

As I head back to my room tonight, another 1700+ steps away, I’ll take you with me on the walk. it’s dark, quiet and quite surreal. It will be nice to have the company on the hike in the dark. 🙂

Besides, this is an experience that I hope you too will one day be able to enjoy too, even if only vicariously through this blog. Sweet dreams!