For those who consider spending half a day trekking mountain trails as more of a Hobbits-on-a-quest activity, a visit at Malibu’s The Ranch will have you think otherwise. This lush, back to the basics spa calibrates visitors to exhale more and take inspiration from nature to achieve an overall wellbeing. A sample itinerary could be cribbed from preschool activities with a monastic bent from its assortment of fitness programs interspersed with light snacks and naps. Set against the Santa Monica Mountains, the compound is seeped in earthy tones and glass structures made with sustainable materials that appear sprouted from the land. Its natural character relates to the outdoor, healthful lifestyle it supports. An open air kitchen, organic garden and rustic pool apt for a gathering of ancient biblical figures make the addictive hum of our devices less appealing. Here, spa design seamlessly intertwines with healthy living.
The Ranch’s decor takes its cue from the outdoors and vestiges from past travels.
The restorative design was intentional says Co-founder and Creative Director Sue Glasscock. “It sets the tone for the whole experience. At The Ranch, we strongly believe that if the environment is relaxing to the guests, it allows the spirit of our program to be as effective as possible. Bringing the natural surrounds into the aesthetic and blurring the lines between the outdoor and indoor spaces was a conscious decision.”
After a “gentle wakeup” with Tibetan chimes, guests will spend their entire morning hiking.
Luxury and detoxify miraculously coexist at The Ranch, which is inherent in its design DNA. “Environment absolutely impacts wellness,” says Glasscock. We designed The Ranch with the goal of creating a luxurious, yet calming, environment that enables guests to relax and find serenity after the intensive days of physical activity during the various programs at The Ranch.”
You can hear the quiet at the pool.
The resort’s original historic 1929 Spanish hacienda influenced their design choices. “We used the same approach with the bungalows and barn at The Ranch, which were originally built in the 1940s and recently board and batten again to honor the original design,” says Glasscock. “Within this approach of maintaining the building’s integrity and heritage, we focused on the natural colors and landscapes found in the mountains surrounding.”
Glass pavilion where guests experience the feel of indoor/outdoor dining.
Details from The Ranch that secure a spa environment:
- California ranch style cottages feature reclaimed scaffolding wood flooring and Dutch doors opening to panoramic views of The Ranch’s extensive property and surrounding landscape. Within each cottage, French limestone bathrooms compliment the overall aesthetic.
- Simple elegance is achieved through natural artifacts and soft textiles, which set the tone for rejuvenation and mental wellness, ultimately allowing guests to recuperate in a natural environment.
- Many of the artifacts and décor, such as woven baskets and photography, have been sourced through travels in Africa and South America. Their focus is on finding natural, humane textiles and materials, also keeping ethics in mind.
The organic setting goes perfectly with the farm to table menu.
Photography courtesy of The Ranch Malibu.
Please visit The Ranch Malibu for more information.
