Rancho La Puerta is a place and an experience you didn't know you need in your life. Once there, you realize how vital this place is to your well-being. As of 2025, this was my 3rd retreat to RLP and it won't be my last. I plan on making this an annual trip. It's hard to put into words how great it feels to be here, and even harder to show how beautiful it is because the photos never do it justice. Pros: - The food. It's delicious and makes you feel good from the inside out. Dining happens in the dining hall which is this beautiful building where meals are treated as more than nourishment for your body, but for your soul as well. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style. You can sit outside with beautiful views of Mt. Kuchumaa or sit indoors. There are small tables and large tables to sit with new and old friends. Dinner is served table side. Each meal is crafted with care using a delicous, fresh variety of foods that include whatever is growing in their gardens (more on the gardens later). - The property. The entire property is rustic but cared for and loved. The grounds and gardens are meticulously maintained. - Mt Kuchumaa. My absolute favorite part of RLP are the morning (sunrise) hikes. Many different levels of hiking and no experience required. My favorite hike is Coyote and the Breakfast Hike. - No wifi or televisions. It's a great way to unwind. - The classes; fitness, art, speakers....there is so much to learn. - The rooms are rustic and clean. You have all the amenities you need. - Spend time relaxing at one of the amazing pools and spas. - Shuttle service from San Diego is great. They are also wonderful if you need to arrive or depart in an off-day. - I always felt safe and cared for Cons: (this list could be kinda short) - Sometimes it's confusing to navigate the property. Especially if it's your first time. Also, if you have mobility issues, you will want to keep that in mind as there is a lot of walking to do to get from place to place....BUT, with that said, I saw a lot of people with less mobility than myself getting around just fine. :) They may not be on sunrise hikes, but they were in all the classes, concerts and dinners. - Highway Noise. Unfortunately, you can hear the highway from the ranch, which is so strange because it feels like a different world...but yes, it's close to the major highway and you will hear semi truck air brakes quite often. Some casitas are closer than others. This is my must-do list: - Hiking Mt Kuchumaa. They have several options every morning. - Gourmet Breakfast Hike - Cooking class - Spa (getting a treatment or just spending a few hours relaxing in the women's only spa pool/hot tub) - Sound bath sessions - Instructor-led classes - so much variety! Pro-tip suggestions: - Don't go hungry...need more protein and avocados for breakfast or lunch? Just ask, they will bring it to you from the kitchen. - Don't go hungry....order a meal and a half at dinner or get half of each entree. - Don't over-schedule yourself, but DO make sure you look at everything that's offered all week. - This is not the Marriott or Ritz. It is a rustic, wonderful health resort that reflects the vibe they are going for. - Be open and relax. - Sign up right away for classes that fill up like the Organic Breakfast hike and things that cost more like the Cooking Class. - Review your folder and take a couple of hours to acquaint yourself with how things work, the classes and grounds. read more

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Best spa and resort for a family vacation. Healthy food and excellent service. Price is worth it.

The Ranch is the ultimate in healthy living, outstanding staff and opportunities for exercise and self care. The grounds are beautiful. Strategically placed casitas run the property where you'll find exercise studios, circuit training, Pilates, three swimming pools, hot tubs and lounge pools. Spa services are excellent and they grow their own food. The chef was just acknowledged by Michelin. We hope to go back annually. read more

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Everything about being here was incredible. Cannot wait to go back. Staff (& other guests) were so welcoming, helpful and accommodating.

I saved up and finally experienced Rancho La Puerta. Many aspects of it were delightful, but unfortunately there were some major letdowns as well. The fitness options were plentiful and I tried a lot of new activities. The cuisine was fresh and healthy--I was never hungry, despite running around all day. The promise I most looked forward to was the "no digital devices in public" at The Ranch. Unfortunately, this wasn't enforced. I was interrupted during both a sound bath class and meditation class by guests using their phones. And a guest was texting away during the beginning of a labyrinth walk. The behaviour was absurd and reduced the experience for others. I contacted guest services about it and nothing changed. As a yogi of 25 years, I've never experienced cell phone usage in these settings. Another serious disappointment was a guest speaker's rowdy teenagers. They were loud, throwing pillows at each other as we were settling into a meditation class. The guest speaker and instructor ignored it. I wouldn't recommend coming here for meditation or quiet time for these reasons. Someone needs to confiscate phones upon entry to these classes. I hope they get better with their promise of the "digital detox" and offer a meditation 101 for the phone addicts. Some of the fitness classes were overfilled and advanced classes were attended by novices, making it frustrating for those who wanted advanced instruction. Again, the instructors didn't guide the newbies to the right class or cap the attendance. For almost $1,000 a day, I didn't expect these issues. I met lovely people and for the most part, had a good time as I found alternatives to the meditation. The guest speakers covered a wide range of interesting topics. Also, the very limited alcohol was perfect-- it was nice to be around people who prioritize their health. I'll try The Ranch again. read more

Execution of any service business and especially a high-end wellness resort is challenging, but I have never experienced a better one than that at Rancho La Puerta. Of about one hundred guests, there were only twelve of us for which it was the first time. I met few who had not been there at least 5-7 times if not more. Many feel it's their favorite place on the planet and who is to disagree. Several travel/life style publications call this the #1 destination spa in the World. Situated just across the border about an hour and twenty minute bus ride from the San Diego Airport, this mountain Shangri La spans about 4,000 acres with 400 focused on the rooms, gyms, dining, pools, administration, etc. and the rest hiking paths and nature. The landscapes are attractive and well-attended and make for a tranquil experience. There is an activity for learning, stretching, recuperating, building, exploring, or simply being for every personality and need. What separates this property from others is that since its founding in 1940, it has built an incredible sense of community. Outstanding guest lecturers and instructors, musicians, cooks, artists join a staff of more than 400 in serving a guest list of folks that is equally unique and attractive. Such puts it well ahead of many luxurious other beautiful properties. In a week of literally hundreds if not thousands of interactions with the staff in classes, demonstrations, dining, lodging, travel arrangements, entertainment, etc. never a beat was missed - and it was done in a quiet, happy, professional, and pleasing manner. Spending a large part of my lifetime in operations and consulting, that amazed me and speaks to the leadership of 99-year old co-founder Deborah Szekely (along with her late husband) and her daughter Sara who now is the CEO. Deborah still speaks weekly there and you will Sara actively on the grounds. Unless you are quick to speak first, the staff that speaks English will quickly offer you a heartfelt smile and "Good Morning" before you do. All wear masks all the time, and there are an abundance of double-filtered water and hand-cleaning stations about. (Guests have to show proof of vaccination or take a Covid-19 test and classrooms, gyms, blankets, and equipment were cleaned after every use. Additionally this area of Mexico is one of the safer areas in North America.) Adjacent to Tecate, Mexico and within short view of the border wall, about the only negative thing I discovered was the presence of outside road noise from parts of the property, but yes, I'm being a bit too sensitive. The ambiance, meals, services, and activities are the perfect tonic to refresh and replenish no matter your personality. It's also the perfect spot to do nothing at all or fully engage; either way you will feel completely comfortable, safe, and at ease. The cost is not inconsequential, but I felt it was also an excellent value - something rare. My wife absolutely loves this place and gushed about it since our second date. Now I am raving fan of Rancho La Puerta too! (P.S. - For what it's worth, as a professional travel and lifestyle reviewer and critic outside of Yelp, I can't conceive of or understand the few negative reviews that were posted.) I have met no other people including the fellow guests who don't absolutely love Rancho La Puerta.) read more

Great food, exercise classes and relaxation....reasonably priced compared to other health resorts!

Beautiful, restorative experience. The food was A+, all vegetarian (fish served occasionally, I believe) and the staff were all excellent. A highlight of my week was the "inner fitness program," an inspiring, funny, healing class about cultivating kindness toward yourself and others and fundamentally living a better, more loving life - I recommend booking your trip for one of the weeks it is offered. Even the people who were skeptical of the idea of "inner fitness" loved it. read more

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Growing up I would always hear about ladies "going to the spa." It sounded pretty boring to me at the time, mostly because I had no clue what they did all day. Now that I've been to "the spa" (twice), I can report: It is my dream world. As in, I would live here full time if I could. Every morning I go on a hike, then play tennis, then go swimming/lay out, attend fabulous lectures in the afternoon and go to the spa. Does it get any better than that? Don't think so. Definitely a better, more relaxing vacation than drinking on the beach. It nourishes the mind and body. And did I mention that all of the food and products at the spa are organic? Swoon! It is expensive, but worth every penny. I've already made my reservations for next year! read more

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The best wellness resort I've traveled to this year! See a long-form review here: https://thatschelsea.com/2019/07/29/rancho-la-puerta/ read more

Rancho La Puerta - The best wellness resort I've traveled to this year! - Travel Services Near Me

Trying to review this place makes me feel like I'm watching a tennis match. I keep going back and forth. The Serve: On the one hand, the ranch is like a slice of heaven. I'd been to Tecate and other borders towns countless times, and never, ever, would I have expected such a miraculously spiritual place as this to be resting on the heels of a US/Mexican Border Crossing. (It is literally a five minute drive away from the Tecate border crossing). The Return: That said, it does feel incongruous with the rest of the town, and I wondered more than a few times at the amount of money the joint was sucking in. The Volley: Stil, a week here wiped away most of that cynicism and made me think more positively about the world. And Back Again: Four stars from me because it is too pricey for most folks, and because when I asked for a partial week, they never explained the parameters of what was included and not included in the package. And Again: That said, they comped me a few treatments, and all told, this is still the most affordable destination spa in Northern America. Ah, I give up. Here's some of the highlights: *Seeing a Silver Fox a stone's throw in front of me *Amazingly satisfying organic spa food, most of which is grown right on the ranch, and harvested directly for your table. *The most amazing service I've ever experienced at any kind of hotel or service oriented business. Seriously. Best ever. *A gorgeously landscaped native garden which almost (*sigh*) drowns out the sight and sound of the busy Tecate-Tijuana road. *Meeting the most amazing women, hearing world-class lectures, and participating in top-notch exercise classes every day. Well, I certainly hope this review didn't make you dizzy. It still feels like a lot of back-and-forth. Perhaps I'll need to go back and give a full week to make up my mind, and I'll have to take my Mom with me. If only to help off-set the costs! read more

Had an amazing week here despite having concerns on first day about the vegetarian menu (I follow a Paleo type diet). And I really missed my kids! After first day or two, I was really enjoying the morning hikes, diverse fitness class options that were offered all day long and the spa treatments! (Spa is extra though). I highly recommend taking one of the cooking classes as they are led by amazing chefs. And the morning organic breakfast hike was lovely! Lastly, can't recommend crystal bowl sound healing more. Lovely meditative experience. read more

Rancho La Puerta - Travel Services Near Me

Rancho La Puerta is an amazing spa resort in Baja California. Nestled in the mountains of a small town (Tecate), it's completely insulated from the world. The spa is only part of the experience - taking hikes on the mountain, visiting the organic farm and cooking school, going to the yoga and fitness classes and lounging in the hammocks amidst the stunning landscaping are all must-do Ranch activities. And the food is amazing, too. As healthy as you would expect but more delicious than you can imagine. Basically, I can't wait to go back! It's a pretty expensive place, but well worth it, I think. Spend a week here, and you will feel like a new person. read more

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Rancho La Puerta is a dream spa for anyone looking to get a kick start in their life. The Ranch is located a mere 10 mins over the border in Tecate, Mexico but it feel like you have entered another world. The Ranch was founded in 1940 and is operated by the same folks who run the famous Golden Door spa in Escondido, CA. The Ranch is a less fancy version of the Golden Door and is geared towards folks wanting a more down to earth spa experience. The entire philosophy of the founders, Edmond and Deborah Szekely, is that it takes a week to make a miracle. For this very reason, all guests are encouraged to spend an entire week at the Ranch. I highly recommend that you heed their suggestion, because a week doesn't even feel like long enough! The guests spend their days exercising, hiking, learning about nutrition, and of course a healthy dose of spa treatments. Every morning there are different levels of hikes offered to explore the beautiful Mt. Kuchumaa. These are an excellent way to begin your morning and jump start your exercise routine. The Ranch also offers different level classes in Yoga, Pilates, Dance, Water Aerobics, Cardio Cycling, Circuit, etc. offered throughout the day. Each member of the staff is patient with the guests' levels of fitness, and want not make sure that everyone is both safe an happy. I had three different massages during my stay as well as a facial. I know, its a hard hard hard life... The spa offers a large variety of treatments ranging from massages, wraps, scalp treatments, and all that other good stuff you expect out of a spa. I recommend both the Hot Riverstone and Therapeutic massages. I wasn't a big fan of the Energy Balance massage, but my mother really enjoyed hers. Maybe I had a bad masseuse, who knows?! I heard from a lot of people that Scalp Treatment is to die for, and I will most definitely be trying that on my next trip. Most importantly, lets take a moment to talk about the absolutely DELICIOUS food. Whoever said that health food does not taste good has obviously not been to Rancho La Puerta. The Ranch offers vegetarian cuisine with a few seafood items occasionaly sprinkled in. There is a beautiful organic garden which grows a majority of the vegetables consumed by the guests. There was no point at the Ranch that I ever felt like I was at a loss for food. The portions were reasonably sized, and every dish was balanced with both flavor and texture. One of my favorite parts about my stay at the ranch with the Morning Breakfast Hike when we walked a little over 2 miles to the garden to eat breakfast. The main gardener Salvador, treats all of the vegetables like his children ,and will be more than happy to give you a tour. He couldn't keep his hands off of the vegetables, and made sure that each one of tried a piece of broccoli that he ripped out of the ground in from of our eyes. My breakfast that morning was one of my favorite meals during my entire stay. Recently, the Ranch opened the La Cocina Que Quanta cooking school. Guests can sign up to either watch a cooking demonstration or a hands-on class with the creative chef Jesus Gonzalez. When I was at the Ranch, Patricia Wells was a guest speaker and I was lucky enough to watch her demonstration. She was as lovely as you would expect, and gave us all copies of recipes from her new cookbook, Vegetable Harvest. The cooking school was a lot of fun and help round out the spa experience. Its nice to take a break from exercising to learn more about what you are putting into your body day in and day out. Overall, after one trip to the Ranch you will be planning your next getaway. Its an amazing thing to talk to other ranch goers and learn that this is their 8th or 9th visit. There is a reason that the Ranch has been around for so long and continuing to thrive. Check it out! Maybe I'll see ya there!! OH! I almost forgot, Bingo with Barry on Wednesday nights is an absolute MUST. Do not miss it! Everyone will be talking about it at breakfast the next morning. read more

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My Disneyland Rancho La Puerta is a magical place to visit for fitness and relaxation. It is truly camp for adults. The standard visit is Saturday to Saturday so you arrive and leave with most of the same people. Activities are available all day long from hikes to group exercise classes, art projects and interesting speakers. People of all fitness levels and ages can find hikes/ classes/ equipment/ activities that meet their needs. The staff is beyond amazing. There is clearly a customer focused culture and they strive to make every guest feel at home, appreciated and delighted. Many employees have worked there for over 20 years. Besides the fitness instructors (predominantly from the US), most of the staff are local people. They are warm, wonderful and welcoming. The guests are 85% women with friends, family or by themselves. Most are accomplished women and many have fascinating life stories. I have met so many interesting and lovely people over the years. A few of which I keep in contact. I am on my 7th visit since 2001 and each experience is as wonderful as the last. To Ranch properly, you should unplug and be sure to join some of the mindfulness classes. I visited by myself twice and the other times with one of two girlfriends. Either way is a magnificent experience. I always make sure to do something different that does not sound appealing to stretch my boundaries. This trip it was a Watsu treatment, a combination of tension releasing bodywork and a meditative inner journey. It is a one on one water therapy, we had the good fortune of having the founder, Dave Towe, with us this week. At times I felt like I was in the womb, it was a beautiful and calming experience. Must try activities include: Classes - Feldenkreis, Gyrokinesis, Sound Healing, Postural Therapy and Inner Journey. Treatments - Mountain sage hot stone massage, Loofah salt scrub, and one of the facials. I love the Healing therapy, it is a trigger point massage that melts knots like butter but it's not for everyone due to the potential for pain. People rave about Happy Hands and Feet - I have yet to try. Garden Breakfast hike - sign up ASAP to ensure your spot Bingo with Barry - he is hilarious but also risqué so not for the prudish Hot tub and plunge pool at the Villas Heath Spa - it is upstairs so possible to miss it -women only 6 days per week. Men only one day Ranch tips and tricks Check the weather and bring layers - nights can be chilly - July and August tend to be scorching hot It is a wonderful experience to go in the winter despite the cold and sometimes rainy weather Pace yourself with classes to avoid being exhausted by Wednesday Bring plenty of cash for tips. Suggest $300 if you have daily spa treatments. Each casita has a safe. Request additional sparkling water, lemon/ limes, milk, etc for your room fridge from the concierge, if desired The Women's Health Center has an easy to miss room off the waiting room for the treatments - I call it the nest- sumptuous lounging chairs with pillows and blankets- a lovely place to nap or read Dining info The cuisine is mostly vegetarian - fish is served a few nights at dinner Discuss with the dining manager if you need more protein options. If not available, scrambled eggs/ omelettes can be requested at breakfast, tunafish at lunch, and tofu at dinner. If you stay at the villas - enjoy the poolside breakfast - dependent on season Always 2 entree choices at dinner - you can order a half and half if you want to try both. Order a platter or sautéed greens,veggies or tofu if you need to supplement dinner Breakfast and lunch are buffets - watch your portions Seconds are always available at dinner but try to stick with portions offered if you want to slim down The week is expensive but the benefits are priceless. I give RLP 15 out of 5 stars and my highest recommendation. Enjoy the journey. read more

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The Ranch is set in the beautiful Tecate mountains. It's an invitation to escape from the daily grind, and our constant relationship with technology and just rest. The vegetarian food is excellent, the farmers who grow the food are passionate about their trade and the chickens are happy! The property itself is breathtaking, they have thought of everything, sunscreen by the pools, snacks in the lounge, fresh mint for tea, and friendly staff everywhere. You'll be entertained, stretched out, soothed and rejuvenated. Thanks to everyone at The Ranch! read more

I have been staying at Rancho la Puerta (RLP) for 15 years. The original owner Deborah Szelsky ran the most beautiful and amazing health spa in the world. Unfortunately the new management doesn't seem to care at all about their guests. The prices are still 5-star, but it is no longer worth it. I stayed the last week of Sept. this year. They overbilled for the room; they didn't have anything ready for my daughter who was paying $500/day, as was I;they acted like she wasn't even a guest. They messed up all spa appointments and overcharged there too. I spent at least 8 hours of my vacation just trying to get things fixed. They locked us out of our room on the 4th day, etc.etc. After leaving I decided to order a bedspread and 6 pillows to match one I bought while there. They took my credit card and still have not sent me a receipt or acknowledged the shipping address. I have sent 8 emails and made 5 phone calls about this and NO ONE ever gets back to me. I finally started including the G.M. Luis Duenas on the emails, but he ignores them too. This is not the old RLP. It appears the new management is all about profit. The guest experience means nothing to them anymore. How sad. This used to be one of the best spas in the world!!! Tracee L. read more

I went to RLP for a week in mid-January. I hesitate to refer to it as a "spa" because I think that conjures up the wrong image in most people's minds. Maybe "retreat" is a better term. Anyway, I'd been to similar places before, but smaller, so I do think it took me a few days to get used to the size of the place, mostly in terms of guest to staff ratio. Plus, I arrived still suffering from a cold so I felt pretty rotten and had little energy. By the end of the week, though, I'd become a convert. One minor issue is that I didn't love the big bus trip from San Diego airport, although I think it's great that transfers are available and included in the price. I was exhausted from taking the 6 am flight out of DC and flying via Chicago--and I got stuck in the middle of a separate group that was just there for their own corporate retreat for a few days. They were obnoxious. The guy next to me had his huge camera in my face the whole time, was totally unfriendly, and...anyway, never saw them again thankfully. It's a gorgeous place, of course, in an amazing setting. And the options for activities are amazing. The staff is (with very few exceptions) amazing. And the speakers they attract each week are great. I was lucky to have Bela Fleck there at the same time--he went on hikes with everyone, and was next to me in yoga. I've long been a fan of his music so that was a nice draw and bonus. The crowd tends to be a bit older with most people in their 50s but all age groups are represented. The web site makes it clear that they don't want people to mistake it for fat camp--"where healthy people get healthier" or something is the slogan. It's a challenge fitting in all of the experiences. Sculpture class was great--except that I couldn't take my "torso" home without paying $400 to get it cast in bronze and sent to me. Oh well. I missed jewelry making--everyone liked that. The dance classes were a lot of fun. Hazel teaches hula hoop and strip tease. I've since bought a hula hoop from the company that makes them for the ranch. The food is, as others have said, great. I have one complaint though--the choices aren't clearly labeled as far as major ingredients. I was eating bircher muesli all week before I found out there was milk in it. Ugh. I suggest to anyone with any food intolerances or allergies that you establish a relationship with the kitchen staff early on--and don't be shy about asking for something individual. For example, some people wanted scrambled eggs and just asked. I had two massages and reflexology--the latter, i highly recommend. And the massages were very good. Some people said they didn't like the main women's massage center but I didn't mind it. The newer one on the hill by the Villas is newer and fancier certainly. The main one has a whirlpool on the sheltered patio, where you can lie nekkid and get some much-needed sunshine. (Hey, I'd just had blood tests showing my Vit D levels are way too low.) It is expensive for a lot of us plebes--but it was a great way to spend a week. read more

Horrible, don't go. We have been in previous years and enjoyed it but sadly it has gone so down in service we can no longer recommend. read more

If you are a 50ish something female, recently divorced and looking to kick start a healthy lifestyle... this is your place. So although I am none of the above I thoroughly enjoyed my time at La Puerta. I like to think I live a pretty healthy/active lifestyle. But just like most reviewers on Yelp, I love to eat. So when my girlfriend invited me as her guest for 4 days, I was ecstatic for the opportunity to experience a fitness/wellness resort. First off, getting there could not be easier. We got dropped off on the US side of the border and our shuttle driver was there promptly waiting. He walked us through the border and helped us get our visas. This all took but 5 min. It took about 10 min to get to the property. Checking in was a breeze and you even get your own gym/tote bag and water bottle. We stayed in a junior villa and it was beautiful. There was a fireplace, small fridge, gas stove (for hot water), and a patio with a gorgeous view of the mountains. I won't bore you with all the details about the property but it's definitely nothing like I've ever experienced. Onto the food. Can you survive without meat, butter, or sugar? I wasn't sure I could. All meals are served in the dining hall. You can sit where ever you'd like. Some sit with people they came with and most choose to sit in communal tables. Breakfast and lunch are buffet style. Even though you can help yourself to as much food as you'd like, all items are perfectly portioned with the nutritional value clearly displayed. Dinner is plated but you can still ask for larger or smaller portions. All the food is either grown on their farm on-site or obtained locally. Most everything we had was delicious and I was never hungry. Okay, so during the few days we were there we did the following activities/classes: * 2 mountain hikes (they offer a variety of levels/lengths) * Circuit training class * Pilates * Yoga * 2 stretch classes * Meditation class/lecture * 2 spa treatments During your stay you'll meet world class fitness instructors, lecturers, and extremely friendly people with amazing stories. I would definitely come back here. read more

This retreat is one of the original spas in the country. I love it every time I stay. Rejuvenated feeling when I leave. I use to be one of their fitness instructors in the 70's. read more

During my 10th visit to the ranch there was a stumble. A big stumble. My customer service expectations for the ranch are the highest based upon the bar they have set. They failed. And, because of their failure I was sick for a month. Part of this was my fault. I had become so comfortable and firmly believed that the ranch would always meet my needs that I traveled without some medications that I usually have with me (I had no idea you couldn't buy sudafed in Mexico over-the-counter). My strong advice for anyone traveling to the ranch - take even over-the-counter meds with you. And, if you get sick, DO NOT ask to see the nurse. Instead, go to the front desk and ask to be taken to a doctor in town. I loved the ranch. It was my haven. This stumble was disappointing, but not earth shattering. The bronchitis I ended up with was miserable (and preventable). But, the response to my 2 page letter was even more of a disappointment. I hope the General Manager took my advice to heart. Despite all of this I absolutely recommend going...with any and all meds (even over-the-counter meds) with you. read more

Lovely fresh tasty we will be back. Seven mates soup amazing shrimp cocktail shrimp and fish tacos. Yum.

We expected world class services and amenities. However, the mattresses are old (one side of the bed was 2 inches lower than the other and it was hard as a rock keeping us awake). The villa floors were uncarpeted and the villa must be missing insulation as we were cold the entire time even though we set all the room heaters at 75-77 ((24-25 Celsius). Our backs and feet hurt the entire time because of the hard cold tile floors and all the stone paths. We were put at the far end of the huge resort and missed many classes because of the distance to everything. Worse yet, we went for massages for relief but the masseuses didn't know what they were doing and made our backs worse than before. My husband who never has problems had to be rushed to a chiropractor after this and all the endless hard surfaces. We must say that the grounds are lovely, the food very good, the staff was nice and those classes we could do with sore backs were great. Overall, though, we would not recommend spending 5000 a week here, and recommend go somewhere else with insulated rooms, carpets and decent therapists. read more

Note as of Jan 13, Rancho la Puerta has been having a lot of specials since the economy tanked , so check for deals if you re thinking of going. My husband I went to the Ranch in January 2007 for a week. We had a great time, had fantastic food, met nice people and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. With that said it was 6K for the 2 of us plus airfare to San Diego and another $500 or $600 for the spa treatments (had a massage every day at $75 each..worth every penny) Older crowd, averaging 45-65. Very few in 20's, since many yelpers are in that 20-something demographic, this may not be their thing. But it is a gorgeous place and a great way to chill for a week. No TV, No WiiFi, No bar..... but incredible food. Despite it being older crowd there are VERY strenuous hikes and classes ie yoga, pilates etc, so you will get a good work out. Also learned that booking massages ahead of time is the way to go. Prime time is late afternoon at 5pm before dinner, that slot fills up quickly so best to book ahead. Since the economy tanked the Ranch has been offering all sorts of special incentives, get on their email list for specials. Also, they have couples weeks but we went on a regular week there were about 160 guests, maybe 35 of them men. But it is not a girly type of spa so that was not a problem. read more

An excellent week of physical activity and great nutrition. This is NOT a spa of cucumber covered eyes and little black rocks on your back. (although you have that option). This is a spa for active people who want to experience a true wellness week, mind, body and spirit. Starting at 6 am and running up to 5 pm you have a mix of activities, hiking, weight resistance, aerobic, stretching, yoga, pilates, meditation, etc. The food is delicious, but be ready for a no meat diet for one week. I got my calories by eating full plates of food. And I loved it. The grounds are immaculately manicured, and spotless. The Cacita's are well furnished and beautiful. The staff are always there to serve and provide you any assistance you could require. Meeting other guests from every part of the world was the best part. You wind up hanging out with people with your same energy because you are in the same daily activities. I live in San Diego CA. but I took advantage of the bus shuttle from the airport. There is no reason to leave the spa so taking your own car to Tecate is not necessary. My wife and I went on "Couples Week". More men than usual. I'd say 33% are men on this week. The women who go with their girl friends love "Couples Week" because the increase in men changes the energy a bit. It's an easier week to get to know people and the fun factor is dialed up. I would go again in a heat beat. read more

PROS: great staff, great food, beautiful grounds, terrific classes all day long. CONS: after an early dinner there is absolutely nothing to do. And though there is nothing they can do about this - they are right next to a noisy highway that takes away from the experience day and night. read more

Nirvana. Fabulous staff, trainers, spa technicians and overall excellent wellness resort.

In a nutshell it was a very revitalizing experience and we plan on returning. It is part summer camp for adults, part an opportunity to live off the grid and part indulgent spa. When you arrive you are asked to turn off your mobile phone and are given what they call a Cell Phone Sleeping Bag to "Help You Find Balance in your Digital Life." As there is limited Wi-Fi service and the cell reception is spotty at best, if you really can't disconnect, perhaps RLP isn't for you. The day starts with a guided sunrise hike into the surrounding hills and the views are magnificent. There are different levels/distances, so beginners aren't left out. One should bring along hiking sneakers as the ground is uneven and in parts there are rocks to navigate over. Afterwards there is a tasty breakfast and time to get ready for the first class of the day. There are many classes to choose from and you can take as many or as few as you wish. For those who never took Feldenkrais (or can't even spell it), this is a great way to be introduced to it. For those who know what it is, then you'll feel right at home. There are also a variety of yoga, dance, swimming, Pilates, mediation, cardio and stretch classes on offer and for those interested in other pursuits there are tennis, basketball and pickle ball. There is also a full spa that offers all the usual services. We availed ourselves of a sculpturing class taught by Jose Ignacio Castañeda, and were surprised at how easy he made it look and how patient he was with us first timers. Likewise the jewelry design class taught by Jennifer Brandt who helped us fashion our own jewelry creation. We signed up for the Hands-on Cooking Class that was taught by Chef Kim O'Donnel. As RLP grows most of its own food, we were first given a tour of the farm grounds and then participated in harvesting some ingredients for the class dinner. Afterwards we were then brought into the kitchen classroom where we were divided into teams and given a recipe to prepare under Kim's watchful eye. She was entertaining as well as instructive and she and her team made the evening memorable. The service is top notch and the accommodations, while rustic, is first class. We stayed in one of the Sol villas, which had a fireplace that we made good use of each night. The food was great. It is organic and vegetarian with a few fish courses added on occasion and except for dinner, was served cafeteria style with large table seating to foster meeting the other guests. It was surprising to learn the number of people who come year after year and one woman we met comes twice a year for two weeks each visit. The service is friendly and attentive. The grounds well laid out, meticulously landscaped, with enough signage so that first timer's like us couldn't get lost. There is no bar, so if you miss your evening libation either BYOB, or there is the Bazar del Sol wine bar with indoor/outdoor seating (and Wi-Fi) where you can have a glass of wine or order a bottle to take with you to enjoy in your villa. The negatives relate to getting to and from RLP and the occasional sounds of the truck traffic on the highway that abuts RLP. There is no direct service to RLP from San Diego airport. You are met at the airport by their bus service - in our case two hours after our arrival time - and driven the two hours to the US/Mexican border at Tecate. There you collect your luggage and proceed to the Mexican Immigration station where they were x-rayed. Once passed inspection you are then loaded into a small cramped van for the approximately twenty-minute drive to RLP. The other negative was that the quiet was sometimes broken by the sounds of the truck traffic traveling along the Interstate Highway that is right outside the gates of the RLP. The closer your villa is to the road the more pronounced it is. read more

This is the place that invented the very concept of Spa. It is beautiful, authentic, spiritual, invigorating, low-key, hi-tech and unlike any other all-inclusive such destination you have ever experienced. Seriously, it is one of a kind. Put this place on your bucket list. read more

What can I say? If you need to de-stress, improve your diet with clean healthy food, stretch, relax and exercise at your own pace this is the place for you. They have entertainment in the evening. The are amazing treatments in the men and women's health centers. Swimming pools and hot tubs in many convenient locations. Very interesting workshops with guest presenters. The accommodations are beautiful. The entire staff from housekeepers to kitchen staff and waiters to landscape artist are wonderful. Every acre is beautifully landscaped. Everywhere you rest your eyes it is lovely. This is a completely restorative experience. I cannot praise it highly enough. read more

I went to Rancho La Puerta February 20th for a week with my sister to take advantage of the 25% off PLUS the additional 10% for Bar Method members since it was Bar Method week at the Ranch. I am not kidding when I say that I literally cried over my cocktail the Saturday night that I returned from relaxing bliss to the real world. No more beautiful grounds where nature surrounds you. No more strenuous but exhilarating hikes in the mountains. No more healthy, delicious food made for me 3 times a day. And no more wonderful spa treatments and massages that are so relaxing while also allowing your body to function the next day after so much physical activity. I can't begin to describe how beautiful the grounds are, how pleasant the staff is, and how you get to meet so many interesting people from all over the country. I found the accommodations to be very spacious and clean (and great water pressure, which is always big in my book)! All in all, a wonderful experience that I plan to share with my husband later this year between Thanksgiving and Christmas (which may end up being the perfect time to go to the Ranch - when stress levels are high and unhealthy foods surround you at home). read more

Love Rancho La Puerta! Great classes, great farm-grown food, and great staff. Take classes (yoga, Pilates, tai chi, the wave, cardio drum dancing) with Manuel. He is too much fun! read more

RLP, The Ranch, is a revitalizing experience. I love my week at The Ranch because it is all just for me. I love yoga so took 8 classes - Iyengar with Nathan - he carefully adjusts each of us so we position the right way. Sculpt & strength, hip hop, cardio-drumming with Manuel - a total kick up fun! Meditation with Phyllis was enlightening. This was new for me - loved it, and have since taken it home to add to my every day. The sunrise hikes are breathtakingly beautiful. Bring an extra pair of shoes for hiking as it gets dusty. There is a new activity pool for aqua classes - fun and challenging! The smoothies at 2:45pm were yummy and perfect for an afternoon quench. Sculpting with Ignacio was great! He was very patient. He'd look over at our work and instead of saying, oh no this is all wrong, he'd say, "so what's happening here is..." and guide us in the right direction. Many of us decided to bronze our work because we encouraged each other and had fun at it. Lulu was my go-to massage therapist. She's been at The Ranch for 30 years. I love how many people of Tecate have built solid careers here. The food is fab...organic rocks. Everyone is especially gracious. The grounds are meticulously landscaped. There are beautiful sculptures all over the many acres of the property. As always, I met some wonderful women and men and will hopefully, keep in touch. The highlight for me was the evening with Deborah Szekely, the co-founder of RLP. At 94, she is bright and active. Her life story is amazing. She continues to lecture and travel, spreading the word about the need for all of us to live a healthier, more active lifestyle. read more

Ive been going to the Ranch for almost twenty years..... I'd never go any where else..... My last trip to the Ranch, I received a 15 time visitor t-shirt.....I tell everyone to go the Ranch....When they do....thats it....hooked...... read more

La Rancho La Puerta is in my opinion "a cat in the sack". Seems like a money machine where management do not care about their guests. Worst value for money. We paid 13.000 USD for a week and the standard was bad on all parameters - room, service, facilities, constant noice from the high way etc. Only positive thing was all the friendly guests. read more

This place is heaven on earth, particularly if you love nutritious, homegrown meals, walks in nature, and peace and quiet.

Amazing, fresh and very healthy food, friendly and helpful staff, lush and beautifully landscaped grounds with plenty of ways to unwind, socialize, explore and/or exercise. read more

The folks at the ranch work hard to make their frequent customers happy!

I participated in Saturday at the Ranch. Rancho La Puerta 2017. Transportation is provided from San Diego to the Ranch via very comfortable bus. You get reading pamphlets brochures a bottle of water and a little bag of snacks to enjoy during the ride. The staff also takes Your passport to make for a tremendously easy entry into Mexico. During my trip 85% were ladies with girlfriend or girlfriends 15% traveling alone and 0 men. The grounds are very nice. This is an Older establishment. With a few New areas. the food is very casual vegetarian. The Saturday package deal also included lite breakfast upon arrival, simple buffet lunch, a cooking demonstration and dinner was eating the bounty of the cooking demonstration via buffet. Hot tubs, jacuzzis, outside and indoor activities I enjoyed an excellent massage. I would suggest experiencing the Saturday at the Ranch before booking several days or a week. It was a very nice day. read more