Eco-Resort Rancho la Puerta

Rancho la Puerta calls itself the world’s first eco-resort. Founded in 1940 at the foot of Mount Kuchumaa, a native American sacred place, Rancho La Puerta gives guests pure food, opportunities for exercise, and space to reflect. To that end, it’s a Rancho La Puerta requirement that guests stay a full week. “Our founders believed that it takes a week to create a change—or a miracle,” says general manager Roberto Arjona.

Whether exploring the brick walking paths on the ranch’s 3,000 acres (much of it undeveloped), discovering new sculptures or lounging in a hammock under an oak tree, Arjona hopes that time at the ranch will recalibrate visitors’ lives and create balance. “We hope guests will take a lot with them and leave behind some of their old habits,” Arjona says.

Classes in Pilates, African dance and tennis, as well as bird walks and hikes are scheduled throughout the day, but guests are welcome to skip the programs and just relax. Spa facilities allow guests to deepen their relaxation with a menu of treatments Health-conscious vegetarians will love the food at Rancho La Puerta, which focuses on whole grains and produce grown on the ranch’s own organic farm.

Guest Kathy Turken of Phoenix visits the ranch twice a year and says her time there helps her relieve the stress of running two businesses. She loves to go in April and October when wildflowers are in full bloom. “It really is a magical place. It fills a need most of us have to get grounded, get centered,” Turken says.