Wellness Resort Spotlight: The Ranch Malibu

Nestled within the expansive embrace of the Santa Monica mountains across more than 200 acres, this distinguished enclave is widely acclaimed for its impactful perspective on fitness and well-being. Within these serene surroundings, a unique and exceptional retreat awaits, featuring a singular program meticulously crafted to harmonize both the physical and mental aspects of wellness. Attendees cultivate essential skills, inner discipline and a structured routine to facilitate enduring changes. High-profile clients, mother-daughter retreats, and 50% repeat guests are what typically make up the attendees at Ranch Malibu.

Set in an intimate ambiance with no more than 20-25 guests per session, each day starts at 5:30am with gentle stretches, followed by breakfast and then an immersive four- to five-hour hike in the Santa Monica Mountains. Following lunch, guests are given time to relax or nap in their cottage. Next is an energetic afternoon with core and abdominal exercises, weight training, a daily massage and evening yoga. These activities commence with a garden-to-table dinner around a large community table.

As the invigorating daily schedule winds down, retreat to one of the 19 private cottages. Each cottage is exquisitely decorated with a blend of rustic and refined interiors that foster tranquility and a connection to the natural environment. This environment aids in concentrating on personal health, fitness, nutrition, and wellness aspirations and thus you will not find a TV in your room and cell service is non-existent. Guests communicate on property with handheld radios.

The staff's remarkable warmth and willingness to help, demonstrated their authentic concern for the well-being and contentment of their visitors. Within the premises, a garden flourishes, serving as the source of numerous vegetables that find their way into vegan culinary creations. You can dine in the garden while enjoying the sweeping panorama of the Santa Monica Mountains. Anticipate increasing your fitness level, enhancing mental lucidity and purifying the body by the end of your stay!

Tips: Be sure to follow the 30-day pre-arrival plan that is provided to all visitors. This will help in preventing any detox-related side effects. The cottages at the top of the property are the most requested as they are closer to all of the activities and dining. Be sure to check out their other properties: The Ranch Hudson Valley (opening March 2024). The Ranch Italy (offers 4 and 8 day retreats) and their pop-up The Ranch Vail Sept 3-Oct 27th, 2023.

If you're looking for a challenging retreat that delivers tangible outcomes, I suggest

considering The Ranch Malibu, where you'll experience rigorous workouts and a controlled diet, all while enjoying indulgence and fostering emotional growth amid a natural environment. The Ranch Malibu has 50% repeat guests because you leave the retreat feeling both physically and mentally transformed. Who doesn't need that once or twice a year?

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Malibu, California. In need of further inspiration? Check out Amanda Blakley’s guide, Best Things to Do in Malibu.