Many a yogi’s bucket list includes a trip to Morocco. As luck would have it, there are aspects of Morocco that can now be found in California. No airplane needed. From many locations in SoCal, one can even skip a car in lieu of something more relaxing – an Amtrak train. The destination: Santa Barbara’s Hotel Californian.
Hotel Californian
When it launched in September, 2017, Hotel Californian drew “oohs and ahhs” for views of the seashore (it is steps away from Santa Barbara’s Stearns Wharf Pier) and Santa Ynez Mountains.
The hotel also received acclaim for the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and modern Moorish-themed décor, thanks to designer Martyn Lawrence-Bullard.
The property’s blossoming, geometric logo makes an immediate statement. “Interconnectedness and faith in the ultimate harmony of creation,” Majorelle’s Director of Spa Emma Spencer says of the design’s meaning. “Learning, community, love of beauty, health and wellness.”
Yoga and Wellness
A devoted yoga practitioner, Spencer established the growing yoga program. Eye-candy awaits in yoga classes held at four idyllic locations, from a rooftop deck to an intimate courtyard. Hotel Californian’s yoga program is growing rapidly, and their 2018 target is 12 to 15 weekly sessions. Options include Kundalini, Hatha, Yin, and meditation classes. Pilates, fitness classes, and nutritional seminars are also in the mix. Workshops and art exhibits showcase creations from local artisans with inspiration from the hotel’s Funk Zone neighbors.
Hotel Californian is planning future yoga retreats. In the meantime, it is easy enough to curate your own personal yoga getaway. Start with sustenance from the Goat Tree Café, a healthy, all-day dining venue that will make the gluten-free joyous. Spencer’s nutritious go-tos include the Avocado Smoothie and the Green Beast and Fennel Juices. Her fave menu item is the avocado toast with egg, goat cheese and radish.
Majorelle Spa
Immersion time a la Marrakech can be had via the cobalt blue sanctuary of Majorelle Spa.
Spencer’s recommendation for a treatment to complement your yoga practice is the 90-minute Connect/Intuitive Reading. “Healing energy work and meditation help release old patterns and align your chakras, vital energy centers. Coupled with personalized, gemstone-infused aromatherapy, a take-home component that will lighten your ongoing journey.”
For more information about Hotel Californian
Hotel Californian and Majorelle Spa
36 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805.882.0100
thehotelcalifornian.com
