Mary Funkhouser

Journeys That Fit

Rancho La Puerta Active Wellness Retreat - 2024

Feb 17, 2024 to Feb 21, 2024
Tecate, Baja California, Mexico
 
Kickoff 2024 with like-minded travelers at an
 
Active Wellness Retreat
at

Rancho La Puerta
Tecate, Baja California, Mexico

Oct 28, 2023 to Nov 1, ==
Saturday, February 17 - Wednesday, February 21

 
Ready to be inspired?   Rancho La Puerta's co-founder Deborah Szekely turned 101 in 2023!  We want to honor her with our presence and support what she has built over the years and lean into her secrets to longevity.   
 
Founded in 1940, Rancho La Puerta ("The Ranch") originated as a camp that brought health education and physical activity to locals.  Rancho La Puerta's founders' story is profound and has been changing lives for over 80 years.  
 
While holding onto its authentic local feel and health ideals, The Ranch has been recognized around the world as an originator of the modern fitness resort and spa movement.   Rightfully, for decades it has been an award recipient by many major travel award programs, and most recently Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2023 in the Top 5 in the destination spa category.
 
 
Here's a Quick Glimpse To Start Looking Forward to It!
 

 

 
GENERAL RETREAT DETAILS

Imagine this, begin your day on a scenic garden hike, savor a farm-fresh breakfast, play pickleball or select another activity, and then relax during a sports massage.  What's not to love, right?

If you are new to wellness retreats, you will find it is easy to customize the schedule to be perfect for you.  If you are interested in learning something new in a workshop, indulging in spa treatments, being active in varied fitness classes, playing on the courts, and/or eating farm-to-table meals from their garden (pescatarian animal protein only), then this retreat is right for you!  

Below are some highlights about The Ranch, and insider information on the best first-timer tips and not to be missed opportunities. 

logo

The Casitas

Dwell in beauty and privacy in one of our 86 casitas tucked away in luxuriant grounds. Each has a distinct personality and architectural flair.
logo

4,000 Acres

Rancho La Puerta’s 4,000 acres include 40 miles of hiking trails, 32 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, an organic farm, and La Cocina Que Canta cooking school. Map of Grounds Here.  
logo

The Spa

Our four health and beauty centers will be your your balanced mind/body/spirit experience for the week, each staffed by skilled estheticians and therapists.

 

logo

Ranch Activities

Challenge your body in fitness classes. Trek majestic mountain trails. Learn the latest in health, psychology, science, culture and cuisine.
SAMPLE CLASS SCHEDULE AND GUIDANCE
The designed 4-night stay will provide you with a wonderful taste of Ranch life.   You'll want to return!     
 
Here is a Sample Schedule of all there is to pick from to curate a schedule that is perfect for you!   Their Fitness Concierge is always ready to help you get the most out of your week.  
 
Stay flexible...in more ways than one!   Once onsite, you may discover other “don’t miss” experiences that inspire you to change your schedule.  Embrace and enjoy those opportunities.     Additionally, it is encouraged to sample offering from the various areas in movement, nutrition, relaxation, entertainment, and learning.   
 
  • “Progressive” classes are a continuum over several days. Your knowledge of that particular discipline and your fitness level will grow with each passing day. If you miss the first day, don’t despair; you can still drop in on subsequent days.
  • Sign up for classes are posted in the main lounge cork board.  (Spa appointments and cooking classes will be registered for in advance)
  • Classes are limited based on equipment availability.
  • Classes and activities begin on time and last 45 minutes unless noted otherwise. 
  • Walking is an integral part of the program and guests can expect to walk about 3-5 miles a day on hilly, uneven pathways.  
 
So many fitness activities to enjoy!
 
 
 
RETREAT INCLUSION DETAILS
The Ranch offers mostly an all-inclusive program. 
 
Special Inclusions Only for our Group
  • Reduced group pricing
  • $150 Resort credit * (use toward spa services, cooking class, Bazar, Mercado, Tierra Alegre purchases)
  • Complimentary 50-minute classic massage and 30 minute herbal wrap 
  • Pre-arranged Wednesday Transfers - assistance provided to coordinate schedules and reduce cost
    • Group-only shuttle departure opportunity for $35pp, minimum of 6 people required
  • Travel support before, during and after, as needed to provide 'best in class' service
  • The Ranch 'Win Win' cancellation waiver automatically included to protect your $500 deposit investment (details in Terms & Conditions below)
Retreat Inclusions
  • 4-Night Casita Accommodations**
  • All meals and beverages - Three meals a day, plus snacks and beverage.   Cuisine is lacto-ovo (excludes land animal protein, but includes eggs and dairy products)***
  • Saturday transportation to/from San Diego airport or the border
  • Access to the facilities and programming (ex.,workshops, and Ranch activities) including approx. 50+ daily activities; e.g., hiking, yoga, trail running, crafts, HIIT workouts, and inner journey classes.
  • Use of the fitness and spa facilities including 11 gyms, four outdoor pools, a running track, a Labyrinth, a reflexology path, tennis courts, steam rooms, saunas, and more.
  • Evening programs and lectures feature world-renowned speakers such as artists, authors, doctors, astronomers, philosophers, and other experts.
 
*   Doesn’t include private practitioners, private fitness classes and four hands massage
** Check-in is at 3pm; encouraged to arrive early and begin taking advantage of the program.   Checkout is 11am.
*** The Ranch follows a modified vegetarian diet that includes seafood.    Local vintage wine is provided at the welcome reception, and you may purchase it onsite and/or consume in your room.  
 
 
RETREAT EXCLUSIONS
  • Airfare and/or Parking at the border
  • Wednesday departure costs (we will coordinate to help lower cost-see Logistics section)
  • Private items, e.g. hikes, spa treatments, specialist consultations
  • Cooking classes
  • Most lodging does not have wifi; it is available around the property 
  • Hotel in San Diego, if reserved per your flight schedule (ask for possible preferred pricing)
  • Gratuities - guidance is listed in the FAQ section
  • Add ons:   
    • $400 p/p Pickleball coaching and play ~10+ hrs or as you choose (no additional tax)
 
Rancho La Puerta- First Class Tecate, Baja California Norte, Mexico Hotels- GDS Reservation Codes: Travel Weekly
Logistics & Ground Transportation
  • Crossing the Border
    • All guests will change transportation at the border as The Ranch organized transfers do not cross.   You will walk to border patrol to be cleared to cross.  Valid passports required.
  • Arrival - Saturday
    • Airport
      • The Ranch is approx. 1.5 hrs from San Diego airport & only 3 miles into Mexico
      • Complimentary shuttle to The Ranch; departs four times daily between 8am to 2:45pm
    • Border
      • Personal vehicle parking available at the border; cost is $10-$25 p/day
      • Complimentary shuttle to The Ranch; departs six times daily between 8:30am to 4:30pm
      • Driving privately not recommended due to 3-5 hour border crossing wait time on Saturdays
  • Departure - Wednesday
    • Airport
      • Transfer to the border is complimentary
      • At the border, a pre-arranged group shuttle will transfer you to the airport; a minimum of 6 guests required, $35 p/p rate
        • If less than 6 guests, The Ranch will pre-arrange a cab/van for approx. $125 p/vehicle, holding 3 - 4 people depending on luggage
      • Earliest return flight 11:30am  
    • Border
      • Complimentary Wednesday departures to the Border; available early morning until mid afternoon
  • Departure - Saturday
    • All transfers complimentary
  • Notes
    • Allow 3 hrs prior to flight time
    • Extra Night - we can assist for any extra night(s) in San Diego
 
 
 
GROUP RETREAT PRICING DEADLINE

Lodging types below are priced based on occupancy listed.   If you do not have the full occupancy listed joining with you, we will do our best to match you in lodging with other like-minded, wonderful travelers from our group.  Most accommodations have single beds within the villas.  
Group Retreat Pre-Tax Rate (p/person) 
Showing 4-night & 7-night rates with all special group and other inclusions noted above:
Note:   17.65 % tax will be added to retreat pricing above;  all subject to availability at time of deposit.
Room Gallery and Room 'Casitas' Description webpage

Additional
  • At Deposit - Wonderful Wellness Planning Fee   $200p/p, no tax (charged by Journeys That Fit
  • At Departure - Wednesday return transfer, cost determined based on number of guests sharing transfer (see logistics departure section, charged by Rancho La Puerta)

The Grounds - Rancho La PuertaPAYMENTS
  • Deposit - $800 per person  
    • $500 retreat deposit (charged by Rancho La Puerta) 
    • $100 The Ranch 'Win Win' cancellation waiver (charged by Rancho La Puerta see more in T&C below) 
    • $200 Wonderful Wellness Planning Fee (charged by Journeys That Fit) 
  • Final Payment:   January 17, 2024 
 
 
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
  • Payments nonrefundable
  • The cancellation waiver is a true win-win.
    • It reduces the risk of the nonrefundable deposit as it allows your $500 deposit to be held with The Ranch for one year toward a future visit unless it is day of arrival cancellation, then only 50% will be held for one year toward a future visit.
    • The Planning fee will follow the same terms as above.
  • Travel insurance will be offered
  • Valid passport required
 
HOW TO REGISTER
To register, click the 'buy now' button for more details, and then register.  Please select your preferred room type and fill in your contact details.   You will authorize both Rancho La Puerta and Journeys That Fit to charge the deposit amount.  Receipts provided once charged.   
 
If you want to inquire about the 7-night stay, reach out to Mary and do not register on this site as we need to inquire about availability.  
 
 
QUESTIONS/ASSISTANCE:
Here are some practical information tips and FAQs to review to help answer a myriad of questions.  We will remind you that promptly after you register, you should secure your spa appointments and cooking classes.   
 
You may reach out to Mary at mary@journeysthatfit.com.   I am happy to assist so you can join in on this great way to start 2024!
 

Available Packages

Villa Junior - 4 Nights - Solo & Double Occupancy (single payor)
Unavailable as of December 29, 2023

Starting At: $2,836.00
Deposit: $800.00 per person

Unavailable
Villa Junior - Villa Sol Area
 
Initial rate shown is p/person double occupancy.    Select the number of people in the room for final pricing.  
 

Our spacious Junior Villas have bedrooms that are separate from sitting areas.  Click on the link in this description and see all the villas in this category and where they are at The Ranch.     Here are some example photos.   

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1-2 beds, preferred configuration to be requested
  • Views
  • Fireplace 
  • Patio
  • No wifi (available in public spaces)
 
Deposit:
$500 Ranch Deposit
$100 Ranch cancellation waiver
$200 Planning fee (not included in Ranch package price above)
 
If you want 7 nights, please email your specific room request to Mary at mary@journeysthatfit.com 
If available, the 7-night rate will be:
  • Solo occupancy         $5,650
  • Double occupancy  $4,900
 
  •  
 
ORANGE casitas below are Junior Villas and you can see where they are on the property by looking at the map of the grounds.  

Villa Junior - 4 Nights - Double Occupancy (separate payors)
Unavailable as of December 29, 2023

$2,836.00
Deposit: $800.00 per person

Unavailable
Villa Junior - Villa Sol Area
 
If traveling with a companion, you are paying separately, and need the double occupancy rate, register here.    (If traveling solo and want shared accommodations, you may select this rate and we'll work to accommodate the request.)
 

Our spacious Junior Villas have bedrooms that are separate from sitting areas.  Click on the link in this description and see all the villas in this category and where they are at The Ranch.     Here are some example photos.   

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1-2 beds, preferred configuration to be requested
  • Views
  • Fireplace 
  • Patio
  • No wifi (available in public spaces)

Deposit:
$500 Ranch Deposit
$100 Ranch cancellation waiver
$200 Planning fee (not included in Ranch package price above)
 
If you want 7 nights, please email your specific room request to Mary at mary@journeysthatfit.com 
If available, the 7-night rate will be $4,900 p/p double occupancy.
 
 
 
ORANGE casitas below are Junior Villas and you can see where they are on the property by looking at the map of the grounds.  

Villa Studio - 4 Nights - Triple Occupancy (separate payors)
Unavailable as of December 29, 2023

$2,436.00
Deposit: $800.00 per person

Unavailable
Villa Studios - in Villa Sol and Villa Luna areas
 
This rate is a p/person rate for each person in this triple occupancy paying separately.    If you want this room and want to pay for 2 or more people, please contact Mary.    (If traveling solo and want shared accommodations, you may select this rate and we'll work to accommodate the request.)
 
Villa Studios are the largest “studio” units at The Ranch, many accommodating up to three people.   Guests staying in Villa Luna have the option to turn on WiFi in their rooms.    The Ranch cannot guarantee the exact room, but we can make a request for a wifi enabled room if that is important.  
 

Click on the link in this description and see all the villas in this category and where they are at The Ranch.     Here are some example photos.   

  • Sleeps 3
  • 2 - 3 beds, preferred configuration requested
  • Views
  • Fireplace 
  • Patio
  • Wifi (in villa luna casitas, otherwise in public locations)
 
Deposit:
$500 Ranch Deposit
$100 Ranch cancellation waiver
$200 Planning fee (not included in Ranch package price above)
 
If you want 7 nights, please email your specific room request to Mary at mary@journeysthatfit.com 
If available, the 7-night rate will be $4,200 p/p triple occupancy.

 
DARK BLUE below are Villa Studios and you can see where they are on the property by looking at the map of the grounds.  
 

Villa Suites - 4 Nights - Quad Occupancy (separate payors)
Unavailable as of December 29, 2023

$2,674.00
Deposit: $800.00 per person

Unavailable
Villa Suite - in Villa Sol Area
 
This rate is a p/person rate for each person in this quad occupancy paying separately.    If you want this room and want to pay for 2 or more people, please contact Mary.    (If traveling solo and want shared accommodations, you may select this rate and we'll work to accommodate the request.)
 
House-like, with two separate bedrooms and two private bathrooms.  Click on the link in this description and see all the villas in this category and where they are at The Ranch.   
 
  • Sleeps 4
  • 3 - 4 beds, preferred configuration to be requested
  • Views
  • Fireplace 
  • Patio
  • No wifi (available in public spaces)
 
Deposit:
$500 Ranch Deposit
$100 Ranch cancellation waiver
$200 Planning fee (not included in Ranch package price above)
 
If you want 7 nights, please email your specific room request to Mary at mary@journeysthatfit.com 
If available, the 7-night rate will be $4,500 p/p quad occupancy.

  
 
Below are the location of the villa suites and you can see where they are on the property by looking at the map of the grounds.  
 

Extra Options

Private Group Pickleball Lessons & Guidance
Unavailable as of January 17, 2024

$400.00

What a wonderful opportunity to have dedicated coaching through drills and ladder play for 10+ hours during our retreat.   The small group dedicated coaching will provide a great opportunity to improve and return home with more confidence in your game.  
 
Rate shown is per person.   Select the number of people you are paying for.  No deposit required, as this will be charged with the final payment.    No additional tax on this balance.