ALONG COMES MARY

(Editor’s Note: Since the publishing of this story, the Oaks at Ojai has closed their doors. Please enjoy these fond memories I made there. -Mary)

When I was invited to experience the Oaks at Ojai, I felt like that cliché blogger from Los Angeles. Heading out of town in LA terms (not even two hours) and going on somewhat of a retreat. What would I find? Am I expected to stay on the Oaks’ grounds your entire stay? Can I bring my own snacks? Will I get in trouble if I don’t drink decaf coffee? I knew I could survive an overnight boot camp if that turned out to be the case. But, what I discovered both after learning more about the Oaks and while on my stay is that The Oaks at Ojai has created an extremely unique atmosphere where YOU are in charge of what your idea of a retreat and detox spa is.

The Oaks at Ojai

The Oaks is located in Ojai and just a half hour from the beaches of Ventura. It is one of the several hacienda-style buildings within the city. From their street, it can look very un-assuming. Their ample parking lot is free and takes up an entire corner on Ojai Street. The architecture of the Oaks, especially from the main drag, brought to mind the 21 California Missions.

I arrived at noon since I’d been invited to join the resort for lunch prior to my check-in. When you stay at the Oaks, all of your meals are inclusive. There’s also several snack breaks throughout the day and drinks (tea, water, and yes, even coffee) available 24/7. You can imagine that I was tickled pink when Maria, the courteous and warm associate who assisted my check-in, informed me that my room WAS indeed ready. I could head on in to freshen up before my meal and tour.

Dining at the Oaks

Before I was on my way, Maria also made sure that I chatted with Christine, the Oaks’ Head Chef, regarding my gluten allergy. While we had emailed about the lunch I would be having, she wanted to ensure I was good to go for dinner. Maria also gave me the lay of the land of their formal dining room (where you can join other guests for lunch or dinner and get table service) and the Libby Lounge.

I must admit, I favored the Libby Lounge. As I get older, I have found that I need my solo time and work trips are real treats I’m grateful for. Those moments to let my mind wander. In the lounge, there’s a long counter top filled with a variety of drinks and fresh fruit. During lunch time, the meals are also served in the lounge. Come dinnertime, guests can enjoy their meal in the lounge, poolside, or in their room.

The Libby Lounge is also where to grab AM fuel post-morning hike, pre-yoga, or just anytime before 9:30, so keep hitting snooze til then if you wish. The cuisine is definitely along the lines of a health program. Yet, the portions are there. Lunch at my arrival was a tostada salad with turkey and soup of the day was a pumpkin chili (which I favored. Hearty and nice to enjoy a fall favorite in the spring for a change). For dinner, Christine had several options for me to select from and I chose their vegan and gluten free black bean noodle stir-fry. It was delicious and the veggies fresh and cooked in a flavorful tamari sauce. Having enjoyed black bean noodles in the past, they were not as spicy as I have had them. They soaked in the flavors from the sauce and veggies greatly.

Classes and Retreating

In between your three meals a day, there are several snack breaks that include a vegetable broth with magnesium and electrolytes. This is vital if while enjoying all of the activities offered at the Oaks. There’s also veggies and dips, and a savory popcorn after dinner.

Each day, the Oaks has countless classes like yoga, dance, and swimming. The dedicated trainers and teachers at the resort take great care of all guests. The daily relaxation yoga at four PM is the perfect way to unwind post swimming, walking, or shopping downtown. While I was concerned I’d forgotten my yoga mat, I was in luck as such amenities are available at the fitness center. Pool towels, too.

With so much going on outside my door, it was actually hard to leave my suite. I was so excited to stay in one of the Oaks’ famed bungalows. Boasting a sun deck to tan with lounge chairs and a patio perfect for sipping morning coffee and un-winding after a facial, I could have easily moved into my room! I felt like Georgia O’Keefe at a New Mexico hacienda. Inside, I had a cozy living room and a spacious bed room and double bathroom.

So, while this is a great place to detox, keep in mind living it up, too. Just steps outside of the Oaks is beautiful downtown Ojai. Cafes, wine bars, shopping, and even the Ojai Valley trail await. The trail is a fantastic 15 mile loop that goes throughout town. I had no idea such a gem of a town existed in Ojai.

Learn more HERE and plan your own visit to the Oaks! xo

(*Disclosure: I was invited to stay at the Oaks on behalf of this feature. All opinions are my own.)