Golden Door — the storied, ultra-luxe retreat sometimes referred to as the “Mrs. Astor of spas”— is set on 600 acres of California grove land two hours south of Los Angeles. Founded in 1958 as a health spa for Hollywood starlets, Golden door was the country’s first destination spa and for decades has been known as one of the best. Guests come to check out of reality and check in to some customized R&R — daily massages, gourmet meals, lectures on mindfulness and the promise of no interruptions. Whether you go to drop some weight or just for some pampering, Golden Door is the perfect place to check out from the noise of reality. The property features private ikebana-adorned villas designed in a traditional Japanese ryokan style: they are simple and are all single occupancy (even if you go with friends, family members or spouses, each guest stays in their own room.) Do note, Golden Door hosts dedicated co-ed weeks, women’s weeks, and men’s weeks. Amenities go above and beyond to enhance the Zen-like experience: so much so that you don’t even have to take your own clothing to wear or skincare products unless you choose to.
The all-inclusive stay includes access to a wide range of fitness classes—archery, cardio dance, golf, hiking, swimming, yoga & pilates—as well as daily massages, a series of skin-care treatments, a mani-pedi and a blowout or deep-conditioning treatment. Bodywork sessions like acupuncture, energy healing, and “chakra clearing” are also on the menu as an a la carte additional cost. Staff nutritionists are on hand to help guests make the most of the farm-to-table meals, which are sourced from the on-site biodynamic farm run by Steve Jobs’ former garden designer.
While Golden Door lends itself to being a weeklong experience, 4-5 nights is perfect for those who are craving a little “me time”. It is a place to reboot and rejuvenate as you will undoubtedly leave feeling refreshed, motivated and clear-headed.
#ITKEessentials
FOR GOLDEN DOOR
BENEFITS OF BOOKING WITH ITKE:
Full Breakfast Daily (personalized by dietary requirements) as well as all meals already included in rates
Three months of fitness follow up with the guest's personal trainer (either by phone or email)
$100 USD equivalent Spa Services credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full, excludes retail items or products)
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
