A Weekend at Miraval Berkshires

Miraval Berkshires, nestled in the rolling hills of western Massachusetts, is a luxurious, all-inclusive sanctuary dedicated to mindfulness and personal growth. After a busy workweek, I arrived at Miraval eager to escape for a weekend of rejuvenation and self-discovery.

Upon check-in, I was greeted warmly and introduced to the Miraval philosophy: to experience purposeful wellness and embark on an intentional journey. The staff explained the resort's digital mindfulness policy, encouraging guests to use devices only in designated areas and private rooms. This subtle shift set the tone for a weekend of being completely present — which is hard to do these days.

I was escorted to my accommodation, the Dreamcatcher King, where I said goodbye to my phone by putting it in a dedicated pouch provided as part of Miraval's digital mindfulness initiative. While I admittedly checked my phone occasionally to get the time, I tried my best to detox from my digital devices throughout my stay at Miraval. The decor of the room struck a comfortable balance between New England charm and modern minimalism, with warm wood tones complementing crisp white linens and subtle cranberry accents.

The room's amenities went beyond the usual luxury hotel offerings. Next to my welcome note and gifted Miraval journal sat a Tibetan singing bowl, accompanied by a card explaining its use and benefits. The bathroom was a spa-like retreat, featuring a spacious walk-in shower with both rainfall and handheld showerheads. Plush organic cotton robes and slippers completed the luxurious feel. While my room was perfect for a solo retreat or couple's getaway, Miraval Berkshires offers a range of accommodations to suit different needs. From elegant guest rooms and suites to cozy New England cottages, Miraval prides itself in always creating a serene, restful retreat.

The heart of the Miraval experience lies in its vast array of activities and wellness offerings. During my stay, I participated in several that left lasting impressions, and I only wish I had more time to try even more immersive activities. The resort offers a diverse range of experiences, each designed to promote mindfulness and personal growth.

One activity that was particularly unique was a Seed Circle session, which took place in a greenhouse overlooking the herb garden. Our guide took us through the process of uncovering the seeds of different plants, and we traded our collected seeds with other members of the group. The experience was both meditative and grounding.

Another activity that was new to me was archery. Our instructor, an expert archer, led us through a session that went beyond coaching to hit the target. We worked on breath control and focus, and went through a healing experience in which we wrote on the target something we wanted to let go of, before aiming our arrow to shoot at it.

I also enjoyed the fitness offerings at Miraval, challenging myself to try new activities in a safe and supportive environment. I tried Barre, along with balance and stretching classes.

These activities barely scratched the surface of what Miraval offers. The 29,000-square-foot Life in Balance Spa forms the core of the wellness offerings, featuring treatment rooms, saunas, pools and lounges.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore on the property's extensive grounds. There's a challenge course for those seeking adventure, numerous hiking trails and access to Lake Laurel for water activities. Golf lovers can enjoy the 18-hole course at the adjacent Wyndhurst Manor & Club. The Meadowview Acres & Farm, home to gardens, animals and beehives, offers a range of nature-based activities that change with the seasons.

The culinary experience at Miraval is an integral part of the wellness journey. The main restaurant, Harvest Moon, located in the Great Hall, exemplifies the resort's "Conscious Cooking" philosophy. Each meal was an exploration of flavors, featuring locally sourced, seasonal ingredients prepared with both nutrition and taste in mind. I personally loved Miraval's approach to serving "mindful portions," which allows guests to savor a variety of dishes without feeling overwhelmed. These smaller, thoughtfully prepared portions encouraged me to eat more mindfully, as well, appreciating each bite. For those interested in diving deeper into the culinary aspects of wellness, the Life in Balance Culinary Kitchen offers cooking classes and nutritional workshops. One morning I took a culinary class on bone broth, which I highly recommend. For quick, healthy options between activities, The Root is Miraval’s grab-and-go cafe.

What sets Miraval apart is how these diverse experiences are woven into a cohesive journey of self-discovery and wellness. The staff's genuine commitment to guests' wellbeing is evident in every interaction, creating an atmosphere of support and encouragement that extends far beyond the duration of the stay. While weekend getaways like mine are popular, many guests find that stays of three to five nights allow for a more immersive experience. The resort offers personalized itinerary planning to help guests make the most of their stay, and the all-inclusive packages cover accommodations, meals and many activities, though some specialized treatments and activities incur additional costs.

As I reluctantly packed my bags at the end of the weekend, I felt a profound sense of renewal. Miraval Berkshires provided not just a luxurious retreat, but a transformative experience that left me with tools and insights to carry into my everyday life. Whether you're a wellness enthusiast or someone taking their first steps towards a more balanced lifestyle, Miraval Berkshires offers a supportive and inspiring setting to explore, grow and rejuvenate. It's a place where luxury meets mindfulness, and where the journey to wellness feels both accessible and profound.

Booking early is essential, as many popular activities fill up quickly. Once we secure your preferred room — with all the complimentary Fora perks, of course — I recommend collaborating with a Miraval Experience Planner to help you customize your itinerary based on your personal goals, ensuring you make the most of the diverse and enriching experiences that Miraval offers. Additionally, be sure to make dinner reservations in advance if you want to secure your preferred time.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Massachusetts. In need of further inspiration? Check out Hannah Corderman’s guide, Guide to a Luxury Stay at Shamwari Private Game Reserve.