Everything is coming up beautiful if you're planning to stay at the Ratna Ling Retreat Center. Joined my daughter for the Radiance Retreat, hosted by the most delightful Yoga and Meditation professionals whose gifts were boundless and generously shared them with us. The Cabin was clean, spacious, and newly renovated with natural light and heavenly views. We were bathed in millions of stars at night, cooled by refreshing fog in the morning, and surrounded by soaring trees and warming sunshine. The staff are volunteers, and delightful without exception. The food was lovingly prepared fresh daily, and absolutely delicious. The Retreat center includes a beautiful lodge, eating area with indoor/outdoor seating and the most enchanting Tibetan Buddhist Temple and we highly recommend the tour and if you are very lucky, George will be your tour guide. Don't hesitate to experience the joy, laughter, and enlightenment of the Ratna Ling Retreat Center. You will remember the experience with reverence. read more

Everything Excellent veg/vegan meals Exquisite setting CAREFUL it could be life changing read more

The last time I had traveled solo was in 2019. Taking a solo weekend away to Ratna Ling (driving to and from 3 hours and not knowing anyone upon arrival) was a huge leap of faith for me. But I'm glad I took the risk and leapt. At Ratna Ling, the retreat felt like a return to "home." A re-discovering of my inner strength and self that has gotten hidden among the business of work and parenting two littles. I entered the retreat with "discovery" as my 2025 guiding principle, and I left with so much more clarity over my purpose, my direction, and belief in what I am capable of. 5 stars also for the cleanliness and thoughtful touches in the cabins, the idyllic grounds, and the absolutely DELICIOUS vegetarian food. read more

Went to a introduction harvest party there and was amazed at the zen atmosphere and beauty of this place. If you are looking to find peacefulness and serenity, this is your place. Yoga and spiritual meditation among other classes. The harvest party was amazing. There was a tour of the the garden, live music, silent auction, and food from the garden. The paella was amazing. The temple is absolutely beautiful inside (no cameras allowed) and cabins are gorgeous. There is so much more to explore - could not do it on one day. It is a bit of a travel - off the beaten path, but we'll worth it. The residents are super friendly. read more

See all

Our yoga teacher David Cho hosted a yoga retreat at Ratna King. From the cabins to food to the location, everything is beautiful. Their cabins are very well appointed. The three vegetarian meals were fantastic with a lot of variety. Their temple on the premises is beautiful and very peaceful. It's a little expensive so it's a special treat. Of course David Cho led several centering and moving yoga and meditation sessions. read more

Another wonderful retreat at Ratna Ling with Danae aka Bella Yogini (my 3rd!). For four gorgeous days and three blissful nights, our entire group enjoyed our stay at Ratna Ling. Really, why would anyone attend a retreat anywhere else? For the meals, there was always a buffet of wonderful filling vegetarian food. Thank you to Jeremy and his kitchen staff from an omnivore in the outside world. I most especially loved the homemade bread. They packed a lunch bag for us to take on our hike. Imagine my thrill when I opened the bag and found a cheddar, tomato, pesto sandwich made with that bread. There was also plums from their garden, dried edamame, chocolate covered blueberries, a granola bar and a wonderful saying. Plus on our last night, they even made chocolate cranberry walnut birthday cakes for dessert to celebrate the summer birthdays in our group! And the cabins! Luxurious decadence. I know I've mentioned how big they were in my last review (bigger than my 2 bedroom apartment) but I was lucky to be assigned to cabin 1 on this visit. WooHoo! It's still a two bedroom cabin but there's also a loft! I chose the bedroom with the Murphy bed and was surprised to find the fireplace in the room. The weather was warm but I love a good fire so I turned it on once or twice. The shower has good water pressure and the towels were soft and fluffy. The jacuzzi tub was a fantastic place to relax. There was a huge deck with sunny and shady spots for reading or just chilling. I kicked back on it quite a few times. The living room space was so big we even had the entire group over for a couple of evenings of wine and nibbles. The grounds are gorgeous. All sorts of wonderful smells from all the trees and plants with wildlife all about. I was able to walk near but not super close to turkey and deer. The jack rabbits always seem to be in a rush and luckily I saw the raccoon through a window and not face to face. And at night, the stars are so beautiful as seen from Ratna Ling. The volunteers who keep Ratna Ling running are all wonderful - Chelsea, Nicki, Jeremy, Matthew, Jessie and anyone else I missed. Thank you again for another wonderful experience! read more

The retreat exceeded my expectations! The grounds are gorgeous, the cabin was downright elegant, the food was healthy and delicious, the volunteers running the show were friendly and helpful, our meditation/yoga teachers were knowledgeable and so very kind and the program of Self Care was just perfect. A great place to reflect, recharge and grow. read more

I attended a weekend personal retreat and it was beautiful. The staff, the programing, the food, and the lodging was perfect. I only wished it was longer. I'm looking forward to returning to this sacred place amongst the trees... read more

Ratna Ling is like a little slice of heaven. Spent my 50th birthday at a yoga and meditation retreat with a friend. The accommodations were wonderful, the staff created beautiful, healthy, and delicious meals, and the teacher (Gretchen Donovan) and other students were wonderful to work with. Such a peaceful environment where anyone can recharge and rejuvenate. What a great way to slide into my 50's. read more

I love love love this place! I booked Ratna Ling to surprise my boyfriend for his birthday and we both really enjoyed everything what they offered. All volunteer staff are super nice and welcoming, and charming people. Foods are very tasty and filling. You will never feel hungry! Cottage we stayed was two bedrooms and very well maintained and clean. There is practically no noise and completely silent outside cottage. This place is such a magical place. Classes they taught us were such an eye opening experience. I just wish that they teach yoga class every day... We met great people and made friends. We look forward to going back again soon. Highly recommended!! read more

See all

Loved this amazing retreat in the middle of the forest hobnobbing with deer; cats; and mellow, friendly people. The cabins were spacious and beautifully crafted, the yoga class with Gloria was, well . . . glorious, the vegetarian meals were amazing, and the massage with Lake was one of the best I ever had. (My sister had bodywork with Adam and was equally impressed.) The main reason I am deducting a star is there was an off-putting caste system the weekend my sister and I went there for a private retreat. In addition to a half dozen other private retreaters, there was a group retreat, whose members clearly received preferred treatment. For example, when we stopped in the dining room for brunch on Sunday, five minutes after the meal was scheduled to start, the volunteer womanning the table had all the hot dishes covered and informed us they were waiting for "the people" to arrive, as if we were raccoons. It turned out the group's activity had run late, and she was instructed to keep all the food hot for them. A yoga or meditation class on Sunday would also have been welcome. My sister was reluctantly permitted to join the group retreat yoga class. This problem could be avoided by offering a separate class for the private retreat guests. The only other minor quibble was the light movement and meditation class, which focused more on the leader's and participants' spiritual journeys than meditation. I would have preferred a separate discussion session to address Buddhist teachings and share personal experiences instead of melding that with a brief one-hour meditation class. read more

I attended a 200 hour Shivakali teacher training here at the Ratna Ling Retreat Center! And it was pure joy! The cabin was well crafted with beautiful, serene window vistas of rolling hills and redwoods, comfortable beds, and a well appointed kitchen. It included a mesmerizing fireplace in the living room which made the whole cabin warm and cozy. At the lodge we had our daily practice of yoga ritual, meditation and asanas in their Yoga Room. The dining room and outside patio was spacious with beautiful views making for a very pleasant place to enjoy the scrumptious vegetarian/vegan cuisine. All the staff at Ratna Ling, the Shivakali teachers, and the members of the November retreat were gracious and kind making my experience amazing. I am a 63 year old woman and I was surprised by joy. read more

I thought it was all divine. Ratna Ling is sacred, healing and tranquil. The staff is happy to do what they do best -- share, give and support. They are all electric, joyful and attentive listeners. The grounds are blessed -- the trees, the animals, the earth all cared for. The food was thoughtfully seasoned and the meals brimming with abundance -- served with color, vegetarian compassion and style. I went on a yoga teacher training retreat. It has, and continues to, change my life. I'd like to go back to Ratna Ling to volunteer my time and energy to give back to the program, it was that spectacular. I recommend it to any one looking to get back in touch with nature at large or the nature within their selves. It's comfortable, earthy and a true retreat away from all the whacky energy of city/town living. Enjoy! read more

You know how you can built something up in your head, imagining the ideal scenario, but when you actually experience it, you're disappointed (or at least not as impressed)? Well, Ratna Ling exceeded my wildest dreams. Inspiring, soul-renewing, gorgeous, fun, enlightening, relaxing, and life-changing. All in 3 days. Seeking respite from constant negativity in the news, over-stimulation in daily life, and wanting to spend time away from electronics, my friend and I went on their self-compassion 3-day retreat. Boy, was it what we needed - and much more. Not only was the retreat's classes, food, and attendees amazingly wonderful, my friend and I bonded on a new level of friendship, sure to last a lifetime. Words and pictures can only say so much - if you're at all interested, GO. You can only truly know how great it is by experiencing it firsthand. Bring your camera and a journal, as you will want to remember both the scenery and your breakthrough thoughts. The accommodations are lovely, spacious, clean, neat, and comfortable - a terrific value. I've stayed at similar hotels in the area that were $300 a night for just one little room, no extras included. The food is delicious, fresh, and nourishing - all vegetarian or vegan, almost all gluten free and grown locally. Lots of variety, too, as it's buffet style. Take time to explore the property, including the Shetland ponies in a stable across the street by the gardens. And if you need more than a weekend retreat and have the luxury of considering it, register to be a volunteer (6 month commitment, must live and work there). I wish I could!! read more

This is the second time going to Ratna Ling because I loved it so much first time! You can get great deals on LivingSocial for weekday visits. Gorgeous light and spacious cottages all with views. Totally outfitted including little kitchen. Two full bedrooms, living room and dining area. The meals are fabulous!!! We were given s breakfast basket that had wonderful treats! The yoga and meditation classes were very good and instructors kind and helpful. The staff is super and they make you feel very welcome and do their best to be helpful. I will go again soon, I hope! read more

We just returned from a wonderful 3-day visit at Ratna Ling. A few weeks ago, I bought a LivingSocial coupon on a whim. The description of the facility sounded ideal and the sort of place I like to visit. I liked the narrative about the lodge-setting, newly constructed cabins, and proximity to hiking trails. All of those things are squarely in my comfort zone, but there were other more unique features that piqued my curiosity. Specifically, my wife and I are not vegetarians, we do not practice yoga, and we are not Buddhists. Those things are well outside my comfort zone but just the things needed to shake things up a bit! The compound which houses the main lodge, conference center, dining facility, and cabins was astounding. Recently built, high ceilings, timber construction, large windows, towering pine trees, cozy modern cabins with jacuzzi tubs and porches... you get the idea! I am an enthusiastic meat-eater. While the food that was included with our package was vegetarian fare, it was absolutely yummy and satisfying. There were salads, hearty soups, fresh fruit, creatively cooked vegetables and casseroles. I can be a picky eater, but that wasn't a problem this trip. They do offer a morning yoga class. The yoga sessions are voluntary, very low-key, and just right for someone who has never bothered to try it previously. It was a great introduction for this newbie. As for the Buddhist angle that, too, was very low-key. If you are so inclined to learn about the Buddhist faith, there is an afternoon 'what is Buddhism' sort of session. My wife and I had an intellectual curiosity about the subject, so we attended the brief session. It was interesting, but I won't be making any life changes based on what I learned. Most importantly to me - no one was the least bit pushy about it. If you want to learn more about the topic, there are books and people there to help. If you have zero interest in the subject, you won't get a sales-job from anyone. Worthy of mention is the friendliness and attentiveness of the staff. Chelsea, in particular, is awesome. She communicated with me prior to our arrival to answer questions and provide information about the facility as well as things to do in the area. She greeted us at check-in and made a point of checking in with us during our stay to make sure all was going well. Likewise, the various instructors we met were also super-friendly and accessible. During our stay, we signed up for a 'mellow mates' massage class with Cindy. The class was terrific. I also hired Cindy for a follow-on massage which was also wonderful (I'll write a separate review of Mellow Mates). To summarize, spending a few days at Ratna Ling is a wonderful way to enjoy some new experiences in a peaceful and beautiful setting. Enjoy! read more

This place is hard to describe. It's a lux 5-star resort-like stay with a common eating area with no room service. I believe there is about 16 brand new cottages. It's definitely worth taking a trip up if you have the time. The vegetarian food is AMAZING (and I'm not a vegetarian by ANY MEANS). In fact, we thought we were going to be served celery and carrot sticks so we stopped at the last convenience store and bought tooooons of canned galore (canned tuna anyone??). There is no need for that. lol My stay kinda sucked because we were in during one of the biggest rainstorms in the Bay Area for the season, but it wasn't Ratna Ling's fault! The cottage was beautiful and the deep forest view from when it wasn't raining was amazing. I would highly recommend this place. The staff is really nice and pretty happy. BTW, I found out that this place use to be a celebrity hide-away in the 70s... so I bet Farrah Fawcett and Lee Majors shagged here. hahahhahahaha. Hit it up and get your zen on! read more

Ratna Ling is probably one of the best places to relax! Pros: Healthy, delicious food Gates for security Clean buildings and restrooms! Cute Cottages with all supplies Amazing classes that help a lot Pleasant and helpful staff Best manager ever ( you will meet her!) A serene atmosphere Beautiful stupas ( type od Buddhist shrine) A grand forest to admire from your balcony A spa with best massages! Cons: Pretty far from hospitals, stores, etc. (20 min from gas station) Large forest can be confusing at night Extremely dark at night ( especially when you are walking to your cabin) Overall the beauty and the peace cancel out all the con Highly recommend you visit! read more

My wife and I were provided a weekend at Ratna Ling as a gift from a family member. The whole experience was fantastic. The staff is friendly, helpful and so pleasant to deal with. The grounds are amazing; with wildlife of all sorts roaming the property. The cabin (more like a mini-house) was nestled in the trees and was extremely comfortable. The deck is awesome to lay out on and read and listen to the birds. There are plenty of places to walk and enjoy the pure peace and quiet of nature. If all this was the end of the experience that would be enough, but it was not. Meals are included with your stay. All meal items are vegetarian, but 80 - 90% of those items are vegan as well. I am vegan, but my wife is not (still a meat eater). We brought crackers a peanut butter for her "just in case". We did not have to break out any of those items while we were there. My wife was amazed at the quality, variety, and deliciousness of the meals. All items served are cleary marked as vegetarian, vegan, and/or gluten free (yes, gluten free as well). Jeremy, their executive chef, was kind enough to described and answer any questions regarding the meals and their preparation. As much as I hate to say it the meals were the high light of this trip, just because we were so blown away by how good they were. If I could I would give Ratna Ling 10 stars for an awesome totally positive experience in every way. read more

Cabins were really nice-- hello Glamping (although even glamping has a few ants) The grounds are beautiful and there was an awesome hike through the woods to the beach. The food could be improved (I wasn't expecting fettuccine Alfredo) but each meal is prepared by their long term volunteer staff so what is offered is dependent upon who is in the kitchen that day. We opted for the massages in our rooms which was a nice way to start off the weekend. Due to a private retreat at the center, they had a pared down offering of classes which was disappointing but apparently not typical, so we actually weren't able to take any classes. We would definitely have liked to try this center again however it's tough to get 4 moms away for one weekend. A few of us had a tough time with some twisty roads closer to the center-- not the fault of RatNaLing but worth mentioning for motion sensitive. read more

The grounds are really beautiful. There are fields and redwoods and small ponds. It's very quiet and misty. You hear a lot of birds and turkeys roam the land. The "cabins" are enormous. Very new and modern two-bedroom homes and Jacuzzi tubs. The food was fantastic. All vegetarian with lots of gluten free options. It's all western food - not Indian or Tibetan like i was expecting. We had a shephard's pie friday night, eggs and omelets Saturday breakfast, eggplant parm Saturday night. Veggie kabobs and bbq tofu for lunch. Sunday brunch was fritattas and quiche and banana chocolate chip bread. There is always fruit and yogurt at breakfast too. I wish more classes came with the retreat. We had one mediation class in the morning and one yoga class in the afternoon and that was it. They were good, especially the mediation teacher, don't get me wrong, but I was expecting a more rigorous schedule. I really enjoyed a getaway where I didn't have to bring groceries and cook. Everyone on the staff was extremely nice. read more

See all

I just got back from a blissful Thanksgiving weekend at Ratna Ling. The facility is gorgeous, the cabins are spotless and first class. We were surprised, as we were expecting more humble accommodations at a meditation retreat. The staff was patient and warm with all the children that came with the families for the weekend. The food was amazing, as were the classes taught by residents. We had a great experience and would definitely go back! read more

I've not yet embarked on my retreat, but I will say that setting up my personal retreat has been an amazing experience. I found Ratna Ling in what seemed like an endless search through a sea of retreat locations. I kept finding that most of the retreat centers I contacted offered very little in the way of flexibility and personal customer service. In contacting Ratna Ling I was put in touch with a real person who called me and asked me questions about what *I* was looking for. I was told that in my personal retreat, I get to set the pace. There is no expectation that I have to be at a certain place at a certain time. It is my retreat meaning I get to choose if I want to go for a hike, or if I want to go socialize. I am SO excited for my retreat. I am thankful to the wonderful staff at Ratna Ling for making me eager and relaxed and I haven't even shown up yet! read more

Just came back from a personal retreat at this amazing place. The environment was so beautiful and serene with old huge redwood trees that made me feel like is was walking on sacred ground. Deers and wild turkeys roamed around and the human presence didn't seem to scare or bother them. The cottage had a rustic look outside but the inside was spacious, modern, and elegantly decorated that i instantly felt so at home. The staff was friendly and helpful. I enjoyed the morning yoga classes very much. The buffet vegetarian meals were delicious and many of the vegetables came from the organic garden on the premise. We were also given a tour of Dharma Publishing facility where Buddhist books were published in English and Tibetan. Thousands of Tibetan books on the teaching of the Buddha were given to monks, nuns, lamas, and Tibetans in exile every year during the 10 days World Peace Ceremony in Bodh Gaya, India. The tranquility and peacefulness from this place was really restorative for me. It's a totally different world from the hustling, bustling, chaotic city life. I felt so relaxed and rejuvenated. The drive along the coast to the retreat center was spectacular. Also had a chance to meet some really nice co-retreaters :-) A wonderful experience that i love to recommend to everybody. More pictures here http://www.flickr.com/photos/hlclicks/sets/72157635603866183/ read more

Sure, buddhism is in part about not having expectations; nonetheless I had them, and they were wildly exceeded during my stay at Ratna Ling. Food: holy smokes. These folks know how to cook. I'm not a vegetarian, but they made me feel like I could be for life. Now I just need to learn how to follow suit in the kitchen. (I heard tell that recipes are in the works to be posted online...can't wait!) Practice: Kum Nye was a welcomed learning experience and addition to my yoga practice. My two Vinyasa classes with Meghan were wonderful -- well suited for all levels. Lodging: brand new cabins, spacious, clean, very comfortable bed, toasty fireplace, the ideal beautifully designed simple abode. The grounds: beautiful architecture (massive stone fireplace in the main hall and impressive wood-on-wood joined beams across the walkways), birds everywhere (turkeys!!), redwood circles/groves abounding, and plenty of deer (we even saw a young buck and his dad jousting). The staff/volunteers: helpful, knowledgeable, welcoming, and happy to talk about their experiences. Huge thank you to all of the folks at Ratna Ling for an incredible stay :) read more

Ten stars! This is a wonderful place full of magic and heart. Just go. Whatever it is you are considering doing Ratna Ling, know it will be authentic, healing, enriching and potentially life-changing. I recently returned from the Skillful Means 3-day Retreat where a small group of us got a taste of volunteer life and work in this beautiful community lead by the friendly and knowledgable Rudi and Tara. I left feeling enlightened by the experience and I am now considering how I can get back for more and to hopefully stay much longer. To top it off, the location is breathtakingly beautiful and the food is delicious (especially George's cookies!). I send a big heartfelt thank you to everyone at Ratna Ling for your many kindnesses, your wisdom and for making this experience unforgettable! read more

Loved my time at Ratna Ling so much! The grounds were so beautiful and I was able to completely relax and disconnect during my stay. The volunteers were all so nice and welcoming and the food was delicious! I can't wait to return. read more

Such a gorgeous setting for such a peaceful and quiet retreat. My wife and I attended a wellness weekend for our five year aniversary and absolutely loved being here, loved the staff and would absolutely go back again! read more

LOVED! I did the weekday wellness package and it was an incredible deal. The facilities were modern, clean and very nice. The cottages were huge and included a deck including stunning views, a fireplace and kitchen amenities. I attended the meditation class, which was helpful and balancing. The meals were delicious and healthy. I was overall very impressed and grateful for the experience. Highly recommended! read more

I was at Ratna Ling for a 2 night yoga retreat my yoga instructor put together. The 2 bedroom cabins were wonderful with plenty of light, wood floors, large shared bathroom, and a decent kitchenette. Some cabins were a bit larger with full kitchens. The bedroom had a very comfortable Q bed with beautiful linens. The second "bedroom" is actually an office and has a Q Murphy bed. Some women found the Murphy bed very comfortable, but others were a tad disappointed in the "different bed accomodations". The ground were peaceful, quiet, and beautiful with rolling hill/mtn views facing east with deer wandering around. The food was delicious and the staff very warm and attentive without being too visible. An ideal getaway! I highly recommend it for a couples retreat, women's retreat, or a mixed gender retreat center! read more

We were blessed with another stay by a gracious gift from my father in law! The accommodations and staff are so inviting with their warmth and peaceful presence. The dishes are divine and we were nourished by the abundance they offer. I am grateful for the couple books I purchased this time which opens the door to sharing at home and inviting others to this place of such serenity. We look forward to another retreat at Ratna Ling in the not so distant future. Many thanks & blessings, Kelli & Dave read more

Beautiful, serene surroundings - very comfortable accommodations, delicious food! The staff was very helpful. I enjoyed the intro to meditation, yoga and sacred imagery that was offered. read more

My retreat at Ratna Ling was life changing! Going through some difficult times I decided to go for a meditation retreat. Not only did it open myself to the sacred and healing approach of buddhism but the techniques used by the different instructors helped me reach an elevated mind. All staff was super kind and welcoming, the setting was gorgeous, the food was delicious and the confort in the cabins dreamy! Gaby read more

Beautiful location, grounds and cottages. Cottage 1 and 2 felt very private. Excellent vegetarian food. Friendly staff, I believe most were volunteers to the retreat. Wonderful comfy bed, soft sheets, fluffy feather pillows and comforter. Fully stocked with dishes, cork screw, coffee and teas, electric tea pot and French press. Jacuzzi bathtub and fluffy towels. A gas fireplace kept us warm and cozy. Private balcony with a view of wild turkeys, deer, skunks, raccoons and rabbits would've been lovely if it hadn't rained all weekend, but that isn't their fault! Another time it would be an amazing place to have breakfast. Be aware, you will be asked to bus and wash dishes for all those having a meal at least once during your stay in their large commercial kitchen, and you're expected to strip your beds and wash your dishes inside the cottage before leaving too. That's fine, I just had no idea. They'll teach you how to work a commercial dish sanitizer too- consider it a free steam facial. Also make sure you bring a flashlight as the grounds are extremely dark at night. They provide one dim flashlight and an umbrella for those unexpected rain showers. Also byob of water! I don't drink from a tap anywhere I travel and dehydrated rather quickly. I'd love to return. It was a beautiful place. read more

I completed my retreat a week ago. It literally changed my life! I am a yoga instructor in Central Cali., the drive was very long, but once you get there, you feel as though you are in another world! The staff was wonderful, the lodging was divine, the food incredible!! I had an autoimmune disease I had been dealing with for 3 yrs. After I got back from the retreat, all my bloodwork came back normal, and I feel as though I am my old self again! I don't know if it was the retreat, but it all happened at the same time! I LOVE this place! read more

What a BEAUTIFUL place! Can't wait to go back. The grounds are beutiful the rooms are upgraded and comfy. What a great place for a yoga retreat! read more

Ratna Ling is an amazing place to visit. The staff is delightful and sweet. The food is delicious and healthy. The grounds are sprawling and beautifully kept. The cabins are modern and spacious. Yoga was so relaxing and energizing. The critters that run around outside seem so peaceful and zen, just like everyone else who visits Ratna Ling. You will not be disappointed. Enjoy the trip!! read more

This was by far one of the best places I have ever visited. It was amazing. Truly experienced a feeling of peace. This place left me with an indescribable feeling that you can't quite explain. I can't wait to plan my next trip. read more

Ratna Ling was serenity with fabulous AND healthy meals. Everything was perfect. I don't say that easily, but I can't think of even one small thing I would change. read more

Ratna Ling is one of the most amazing places I have ever been. Chelsea and the whole staff took great care of us. The food was amazing. The yoga was great. I want to live there! read more