San Diego’s near-perfect year-round climate provides a fitting backdrop for Spa Rancho Valencia at Rancho Valencia Resort. A secluded sanctuary nestled into soft, rolling hills, a vibrant pink-washed exterior that seems to have been transplanted directly from a steamy Greek isle distinguishes the resort’s striking facade. Citrus groves and colorful flowers round out the Mediterranean feel. Inside, Italian fountains, monstrously high ceilings, and lavish tropical foliage strike an overall relaxed, slightly exotic setting.

The Spa Experience

Spa Rancho Valencia’s lively architecture is seamlessly integrated into the spa’s decor, with mosaic tiles and bright accents dotting the 10,000-square-foot layout. Sliding glass doors in the relaxation rooms invite the outdoors inside. You’ll find all ten treatment rooms outfitted with a shower and private patio, and some also feature fountains and baths. A variety of saunas, steam rooms, and a Vichy shower guarantees the latest in hydrotherapy rescue, while quiet, meditative grottos throughout the grounds provide isolated nooks perfect for contemplation after soaking in a plunge or Watsu therapy pool.

Pampering Treatments

I found that almost all of Spa Rancho Valencia’s massages, exfoliations, masques and wraps make full use of San Diego’s bounty, with mainstays such as Pacific sea salt, seaweed, sweet citrus fruits, and cypress gracing the spa menu. I was enticed by the tip to toe treatment, a decadent, full-body oil massage that includes a citrus sea salt foot exfoliation and hot towel foot wrap combined with a hair and scalp treatment that combines the light scent of lavender with the orange. I was reminded of the treatment the next day, walking through the resort’s private orange grove.

I also indulged in the works, a deep cleansing treatment that targets the complexion with a steamy heat mask and special ionization regimen. The result was a toned and firm complexion. A weightless aquatic bodywork that involved stretching, hot stone therapy, and shiatsu massage completed a feeling of total relaxation and regeneration.

Indulgences and Added Amenities

Spa Rancho Valencia retains its strong commitment to tennis (the site used to be a tennis school) with an internationally recognized tennis program marked by eighteen hard courts and expert teaching pros for all levels. I enjoyed watching some of the expert players on the courts on my way to Pilates class in the well-equipped fitness center, but felt my trip wouldn’t have been complete without a self-guided hike to a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean and La Jolla point from 500 feet above sea level.

Those interested in increasing the romance of a trip to Spa Rancho Valencia should remember the spa’s facility’s private suites. Designed for two, the suites feature a fireplace, personal garden, soaking tubs and a specialty menu for couples.