It’s a woman’s nature to care for and nurture the people she loves, from kids and spouses to friends, extended family and even pets. So many women spend the majority of their time and energy selflessly caring for others, leaving little, if any, time for themselves. Savvy women know there comes a time when they must prioritize tending to their own self-care and filling their own cup. Getting away from daily responsibilities, chores and routines to take a break and focus on rest and relaxation is one of the best gifts women can give to themselves, and everyone in their life benefits from their time away, as they return refreshed, renewed and re-energized.
Luckily, an amazing mecca for retreating in luxury is found just a few hours’ drive from the Conejo Valley. Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa in Avila Beach, just south of San Luis Obispo, is a magical oasis made for moments like these. Load up the ladies and head north on the 101 to leave your worries behind (they’ll be there when you return!) and soak up some healing vibes in the lovely Shangri la-esque landscape of Sycamore Mineral Springs.
With 24 private open-air hot tubs fed by mineral-rich waters dotting the wooded hillside, this idyllic location offers the perfect opportunity for a relaxing one-hour escape from it all if time is short. One dip will have you hooked and checking your calendar to book a few days to stay at the resort, where every room comes with its own private hot tub to soak away all your stress.
The well-appointed rooms include big comfy beds with cozy comforters and lots of fluffy pillows, as well as special sweet-smelling lotions, shampoos and luxurious amenities. Gal pals going as a group can opt for the 2-bedroom bungalow, complete with a living room, kitchen, two full baths and an outdoor private hot tub overlooking the scenic beauty of nature in the backyard. On a recent girls’ trip, we were welcomed to this serene abode by abundant hillside wildlife, including wild turkeys—with babies in tow and a magnificent male strutting his feathers in an impressive fan—a doe and her two spotted fawns, skunks, lizards and sparrows, all adding to the fairytale feel of the surreal surroundings.
We didn’t waste any time filling up the outdoor tub with fresh mineral-rich water and immersing ourselves in the health-giving, sore muscle-relieving, soul-soothing, stress-melting hot springs for hours. If it weren’t for the rumblings of hunger in our bellies, we may have spent the entire trip soaking in the hot tub! But alas, we emerged from our first soak already feeling years younger and rejuvenated as we headed over the picturesque walking bridge to the Secret Garden.
Garden of Delights
Sounds of live music greeted us as we approached the Secret Garden, tucked into an idyllic outdoor setting located in easy walking distance from the main resort. Sunflowers and vegetables graced the giant garden encircling the stage, tables and food trucks, where we ordered specialty wood-fired pizzas made fresh onsite and some local libations. Swaying to the music, we enjoyed watching the enthusiastic dancers while sipping on ciders and relaxing under the shade of stately sycamore trees towering above us toward the clear blue sky. The delicious Ricottaroni pizza with pepperoni, roasted garlic, house tomato sauce and ricotta cheese and The Sycamore, with white sauce, mozzarella cheese, chicken, spinach, onions and mushrooms, filled our tummies, leaving us with plenty of leftovers for a late-night snack. We caught a glimpse of the neighboring Bob Jones Trail leading to Avila Beach before heading back over the bridge to check out the boutique and gift shop.
Aligned with the peaceful aura of the property, the boutique features an abundant selection of Zen-inspired items, from Buddhas and wind chimes, to elegant sun catchers, jewelry, lotions, perfumes, clothing and more. One visit was not enough to fully explore the boutique’s beautiful creations; we made several return trips to find unique gifts for loved ones and special souvenirs for ourselves.
After an early evening soak in the mineral-rich waters, we ordered room service from the Gardens of Avila Restaurant, where breakfast, lunch and dinner options abound. The Shrimp and Pancetta Pasta served with lemon garlic cream and baby spinach did not disappoint, and in fact, disappeared rather quickly as we feasted on the finest fettucine pasta made in house. The extensive menu boasts a wide array of homegrown and locally sourced ingredients, including organic veggies from their onsite Chef’s Garden, fresh fish—try the Sea Scallops, Pacific Halibut or Grilled Salmon—as well as certified grass-fed Angus Fillet Mignon, Braised Short Ribs, Pan-Seared free-range chicken and so much more.
Yoga, Spas & Waterfalls Too!
Starting the day on a healing note, daily yoga classes invite guests to embrace the mind/body/spirit connection as they stretch and strengthen in the calming onsite yoga dome. Check the schedule to reserve a spot in the full moon yoga, meditation and sound bath events to harmonize your body, breath and soul.
For an extra boost of wellness, book a treatment at the Sycamore Spa. From renewing facials, including Red Light Therapy, LED and Oxygen Infusions, to luxurious CBD and hot stone massages, replenishing treatments to uplift the body and soul await your presence from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.
In addition to the refreshing pool, complete with cabanas and comfortable lounge chairs, the Oasis Waterfall Lagoon featuring two waterfalls and plenty of room to swim is an incredible sight to behold and experience. Surrounded by lush greenery and colorful blooming flowers, the Oasis Waterfall is a hidden gem of the resort offering next-level luxury as you float amidst the private piece of heavenly paradise.
Enjoy the Journey
With onsite bike rentals available from 8 a.m. to sunset every day, exploring the lush Avila Valley along the Bob Jones Trail to the beach is a breeze. Biking along the stunning, mostly flat 3.5-mile trail offers a memorable highlight to a perfect getaway that will capture your heart, relax your body, nourish your soul and keep you coming back home to discover yourself.
Surrounded by lush greenery and colorful blooming flowers, the Oasis Waterfall is a hidden gem of the resort offering next-level luxury as you float...