Center of Attention

Digital advances make it easy to stay connected 24/7 (literally). But every once in a while, it’s good—even necessary—to step off the merry-go-round to reconnect to a much higher state of well-being. Enter Cal-a-Vie Health Spa. Located a mere 45 minutes from the San Diego airport and tucked amid mounds of rolling hills, Cal-a-Vie is a game-changer. Pass through its gates, and life as you know it is placed on hold—so that life as you need it can take center stage.

A bouquet of herbal fragrance—think lavender and sage—awakens the senses from the moment I arrive at Cal-a-Vie, widely considered one of the nation’s top spas. Two hundred acres of beautiful, sprawling topography lend this Euro-designed spa its worlds-away aura—I might as well be in France. The idyllic backdrop sets a breathtaking scene for a much-needed week of fitness, introspection, relaxation and total disconnection from the digital world.

Now, I admit that, for years, I insisted that staying connected while I was on “vacation” actually helped me relax. But then I had an epiphany: It didn’t. Staying wired—even while visiting exotic locales—kept me shackled to the same day-to-day marathon pace, thereby robbing my mind and body of their rights to recharge.

Needless to say, technology was in tow on my previous visit to Cal-a-Vie, but my latest reprieve at the spa saw only two pieces of gadgetry—most was at home, right along with my heels, skinny jeans, jewelry and makeup, none of which is needed—and only for a limited time. (Note to the tech-obsessed: Don’t stop reading, but don’t panic, either. Know that Wi-Fi and a landline phone outfit all guest rooms if you are unable to sever all connectivity just yet; newer suites even boast TVs. And the recently remodeled Garden Room, open to all guests, includes a large-screen TV and several computers—should logging on prove too tempting.)

Coming to Cal-a-Vie on a Sunday morning is strategic—I dedicate the remaining part of that afternoon and Monday (both “transition” days) to meeting a few remaining deadlines and tying up loose ends. By Tuesday morning, I’m fully detached—laptop packed and “out-of-office” auto-reply unleashed. OK, so I did keep my good old iPhone handy, but only to check up on my pooch back home. Other than that, I disconnect in full for the first time since, well, email first became available on the Sprint Treo.

For almost 30 years, Cal-a-Vie has catered to the notable (from CEOs to celebs) and those savvy enough to know about it. But every guest, no matter how prominent (or not), is treated like royalty. Privacy is paramount—hence the spa’s average occupancy of only 30 guests per week. Coming back to Cal-a-Vie is not surprising, especially given the spa’s high return rate. Repeat sojourns come quarterly, yearly and consistently. Spend seven days at this oasis of transformation that stretches the mind-body-spirit idea to unbelievably luxurious lengths, and it makes perfect sense. There’s really no place like it.

A warm “welcome back” marks my arrival; then I’m whisked away to a mountain-view guest villa—an expansive 400-square-foot space with a sundeck and fabulous vistas. The recipient of a recent renovation, the villa—at once elegant and cozy—impresses with a king-size bed dressed with fine Frette linens and handcrafted antique furnishings and décor. Complementing these accoutrements is a well-appointed bathroom, featuring a grand tub, a large glass-enclosed shower, travertine tile, plus robes for spa and bath, slippers, bath shoes and multiple sets of “Cal-a-Vie Grays” (athletic wear, which, by the way, is perfectly acceptable to don during meals. I prefer to sport my own workout garb, but technically, you can show up at Cal-a-Vie with little more than footwear, undergarments, pj’s and a toothbrush and be good to go). My villa accompanies Cal-a-Vie’s collection of new one- and two-bedroom suites. Ranging in size from 400 to 500 square feet, these accommodations include separate living rooms with TVs, even larger bathrooms and reclaimed hardwood floors. It’s a personal choice, but I opt for total disconnect and am A-OK not having my own TV.

I unpack my small carry-on bag and review my program materials: a package outlining fitness classes, spa treatments and meals first mailed to my house a few weeks prior to my arrival at Cal-a-Vie. My program includes a customized exercise program, daily massages, yoga, nutrition seminars, cooking classes and a plethora of beauty treatments devised from a comprehensive health and fitness profile. Like any self-respecting type-A Virgo, I comb through every little detail, then grab the complimentary aluminum signature water bottle and tote bag before heading to my meeting with master planner Michelle Beck, who helps me fine-tune my stay—one with an all-inclusive rate that includes all meals, a set number of spa and beauty treatments, and round-trip airport transfers with optional add-ons.

Narrowing down the seemingly limitless options—think spinning, cardio kickboxing, body pump and boot camp classes, yoga, Pilates, stretch sessions, and spa and beauty treatments—is difficult. But my 30-minute consult with Beck produces a checklist of fitness classes and a 1,500-calorie-per-day “maintenance” plan (1,200- and 1,800-calorie plans are also available, depending on individual needs). The focus of my program is to regain balance, recharge my workout and digitally disconnect.

With our chat concluded and my program devised, no longer did I need to consider a schedule. Each day at breakfast, one bearing my name arrived with suggested fitness classes and spa treatments reflecting my overall goals. Even better? No obligations. Change a class or skip it; lounge by the courtyard pool or swim laps in the hilltop Olympic-size pool; swap a massage for a facial; your time is all your own.

Days at Cal-a-Vie get under way early, at 6:30am, with a challenging hike or more leisurely walk through the links at an adjacent course now owned by the spa. Hiking trails are set right off the property, and, before I know it, I’m chatting with other guests while heading up a steady incline. Group leaders at both the head and rear of the pack motivate the group as needed. More than once I question my stamina, but happily jump-start that which was all but dormant. A sense of accomplishment comes around 7:45am, just in time for breakfast. 

Freshly showered, I head to the dining room, blowout- and makeup-free (I won’t lie; it’s liberating). I locate my nameplate and sit down at one of many community tables. Menus are predetermined to accommodate for food allergies and dietary restrictions, but everyone eats the same thing, just in different portions. A huge menu board listing guests’ food preferences and caloric requirements hangs in the kitchen—once again, no thinking required. Coffee and tea are offered at all meals (delicious Dr. Tea flavors are highlights). It’s hard to believe low-cal fare can be downright delicious, but it is prepared to perfection at Cal-a-Vie. The spa, after all, has award-winning Executive Chef Jason Graham to thank.

Next on the menu: burning the calories I just so thoroughly savored. But before I join one of Cal-a-Vie’s 100-plus fitness classes—including around 20 classes with a mind-body-spirit orientation such as yoga, Qi Gong and meditation—I submit to a fitness evaluation. Make that a “reality check.” Having been in pretty decent shape, diagnostics reveal that the recent demands of both my work and my life have taken priority over gym time—just the 411 I need to get solidly back on track.

As I take stock of things internally, I do so externally, surveying the landscape so that I can put all of Cal-a-Vie’s facilities—among them a full Pilates studio, several workout venues and an 11,000-square-foot fitness center appointed with state-of-the-art equipment—to good use during my stay.

While I tend to gravitate toward high-intensity fitness—like spin, Rowbics and body pump classes—since well-being is the goal, I add Pilates and stretch into the mix. The fitness instructors really make a difference here. They are not only on top of their game, but they also take the time to get to know the guests and their fitness goals. Time flies, but I squeeze in two more classes after my mid-morning snack (grilled veggies and Cal-a-Vie’s famous tomato-based veggie soup become faves). Most days you can also enjoy an hour packed session led by Registered Dietician Linda Illingworth before lunch or after dinner. These nutritional seminars are not to be missed.

Flying solo at Cal-a-Vie is a breeze, even at mealtimes. At lunch, I meet a handful of friendly, interesting people, and, not surprisingly, we all have a good bit in common. Once again, chef Graham works his magic. Lunch and dinner are each served with an appetizer, main course and mini dessert. Quinoa salad with chicken and fish tacos are among my many favorite midday dishes, which are served either in the dining room or on the patio. Equally delicious is Cal-a-Vie’s new culinary venue: the rooftop deck, complete with grill, pizza oven and seriously amazing views.

Afternoon is spa time. Those in need of serious pampering opt for the European Plan, which includes 16 different services, more than two a day—one is a body treatment such as a massage, wrap, scrub or hydrotherapy, and the other is a beauty service like a facial, hair treatment or mani/pedi. Cal-a-Vie’s “show up in your robe” motto makes the spa experience that much more relaxing. Just arrive; relax in the steam room, sauna or Jacuzzi; take a seat, and wait for your name to be called.

Once I’m in the calming confines of the treatment room, my spa therapist asks if I’d like my robe to be kept warm in the sauna—hey, why not? I give the nod, then proceed to luxuriate in a muscle-soothing massage. Let me say this: Not only are Cal-a-Vie spa techs highly trained, but also totally in tune with the needs of overworked type A’s. Each treatment I receive is on point and sheer bliss. It’s a good thing that no sign-out is required—the spa takes care of everything (even the daily laundry)—because I’m so relaxed I’d likely miss it anyway.

While mornings at Cal-a-Vie begin with a brisk trek, evenings start with hors d’oeuvres—coincidentally, at 6:30pm. Dinner immediately follows at 7pm. Everyone dines communally and at the same time. Some faves include the surf and turf, Thai-style shrimp pasta and duck with sweet potato fries. While room service is also an option, it’s nice to unwind, share stories and talk triumphs with guests-turned-friends who just hours and days earlier were complete strangers. It’s not surprising; spagoers encourage one another, laugh together and often lend an ear. This, in combination with the 5-1 staff-to-guest ratio and overall supportive environment at Cal-a-Vie, makes its spa experience special.

It is always nice to return to my villa—one of many clustered alongside the pool and spa that, together, recall a charming European village. Nature’s aromatherapy fills the air. I breathe it deeply and settle in for a sound slumber without an ounce of stress, knowing that my clothing for the next day has been freshly laundered and there’s nothing to coordinate.

Indulgences extend to wellness, nutrition and the highly anticipated cooking lessons headed by chef Graham in Cal-a-Vie’s newest addition, L’Orangerie. Imported directly from Dijon, France, the 17th-century building was rebuilt on the property and now boasts a state-of-the-art kitchen and the title of oldest standing structure in San Diego County. It makes a spectacular reception venue for weddings and special occasions, which is becoming quite popular. Likewise, next door is a similar storied chapel that doubles as a meditation room. It stands as a testament to Cal-a-Vie’s owners, John and Terri Havens who have a passion for antique décor. (Tellingly, at guests’ requests, an antique boutique will soon open, which will likely be just as popular as the now-buzzing spa boutique, stocked with Lululemon signature wear, health books, supplements and trinkets.) Also new to Cal-a-Vie is a vineyard. And though the spa is practically alcohol-free, in time, it hopes to establish its own wine label.

I emerge from my seven days at Cal-a-Vie—five with no technology whatsoever—with a renewed outlook and recharged batteries. My workout regimen has kicked back into a high gear, my taste for healthy food is rekindled and my no-longer-bloodshot eyes retain their normal color. And, just like the majority of my fellow guests, my return plan is already in the works. cal-a-vie.com