From goat yoga in Oregon, to Santa Barbara’s salt caves and blissful paddling in Newport Beach, here are our ten ways to find your zen in the States.
Goat Yoga, Portland, Oregon
From the Pacific Northwest comes goat yoga. During this hour-long Vinyasa yoga class, friendly goats hop on participants’ backs, nuzzle to distraction and even throw them off balance. Yogis and goat lovers can stick around after class for a meet-and-greet with affectionate four-legged twins, Preston and Quincy. For more information, visit: travelportland.com.
Salt Caves, Santa Barbara, California
Travellers can find their Zen and unwind at Salt Caves Santa Barbara – the largest man-made underground crystal salt cave in North America. Covered from floor to ceiling in Himalayan Salt known for its health benefits, the air in the cave is also infused with micro-particles of salt and minerals, which are absorbed naturally through the skin. Guests can choose from a range of treatments and activities, including Pilates, Tai Chi and Yoga Nidra. For more information, visit: santabarbaraca.com.
Lake Tahoe Balloons, South Lake Tahoe, California
Travellers can float above the crystal clear Lake Tahoe on a hot air balloon ride from Lake Tahoe Balloons (see cover photo), the only hot air balloon ride in the world to begin and end on the deck of a boat. The breathtaking flight showcases the natural beauty of the alpine setting. For more information, visit: tahoesouth.com.
Bliss Paddle Yoga, Newport Beach, California
Visitors can relax – and test their balance – on the calm waters of Newport Beach during a Bliss Paddle Yoga session. With no distractions to disturb inner peace, yogis can rent their own paddle board for a Zen experience or join an intimate paddle board yoga class, suitable for all abilities. For more information, visit: visitnewportbeach.com.
Yoga on the Rocks, Colorado, USA
For a truly Zen experience, visitors can get involved in a Yoga on the Rocks workout at one of the most awe-inspiring venues in the world – Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Yogis can take part in a number of classes unlike any other, joining hundreds of enthusiasts to unwind and relax, all whilst feeling on top of the world at an altitude of 6,400ft which makes exercise even more demanding. For more information, visit: colorado.com.
If you don’t wan to find your Zen at Red Rock, you can always visit the Red Rocks Amphitheatre Summer Concerts.
The Double Eagle Resort and Spa, Mammoth Lakes, California
Located on June Lake, The Double Eagle Resort and Spa provides travellers with a relaxing experience in alpine surroundings. With views of rushing streams and towering pines, The Double Eagle Resort and Spa is tucked away at the base of the 11,000-foot Carson Peak. Guests can take in the peaceful surroundings during relaxing spa treatments, including massages and facials. For more information, visit: visitmammoth.com.
UC Santa Cruz Arboretum & Botanic Garden, Santa Cruz, California
Visitors to Santa Cruz can find peace amongst the blooming flowers with a visit to UC Santa Cruz Arboretum & Botanic Garden. Home to more than 300 plant families and thousands of individual plants, the gardens are a sanctuary for those seeking a Zen afternoon amongst the greenery. Separated into different ecosystems and climates, the gardens also features new installations, such as the Future Garden for the Central Coast of California and art spanning three geodesic domes, showcasing plants which are likely to thrive as temperatures increase in future years. For more information, visit: santacruz.org.
Sunset Bay, San Francisco, California
Sailors can feel the waves as they enjoy the iconic San Francisco Bay at sunset. During a 90-minute excursion with Adventure Cat Bay Sail, visitors sail around Alcatraz Island and under the Golden Gate Bridge. With a complimentary glass of local wine or Californian beer in hand, how can you fail to find your Zen. For more information, visit: sftravel.com.
Two Bunch Palms, Greater Palm Springs, California
Greater Palm Springs, California’s desert oasis, is a go-to for specialist spa and wellness treatments. At Two Bunch Palms Desert Hot Springs, visitors can relax during Mud Therapy – spending 20 minutes soaking up the aromatic clay and peat moss whilst lying in a mud bath. Bathers can float weightlessly whilst treating themselves to deeply moisturised skin. The city of Desert Hot Springs is known for the natural mineral-rich spring water that has been flowing below the city for over 600 years. For more information, visit: visitgreaterpalmsprings.com.
Balanced Rock Foundation, Yosemite Mariposa County, California
Visitors to Yosemite National Park can take part in a Balanced Rock Foundation programme to recognise the area’s spirituality. The programme includes a backpacking journey focusing on inward reflection and an outdoor exploration of the incredible surroundings. Expert guides share a combination of local Yosemite knowledge and spirited dedication to practices, including yoga and meditation, allowing visitors to understand holistic health and wellness. For more information, visit: yosemite.com.