Best of Miraval

Set on 400 acres in the Sonoran Desert near Tucson, Arizona, Miraval offers a sanctuary to lay down the burdens of daily life and just be—something fifteen Club Members on the “Best of Miraval” event were desperately seeking after the throes of 2020.

Gina Bach, VP of the Club’s Experience Collection, played host for the December weekend, safely welcoming Members on the three-day, socially-distant retreat, with a hands-on cocktail making class and gourmet fare—served at private tables, of course. While the resort can accommodate up 275 guests, Miraval reduced its capacity by more than half to ensure proper social distancing. Masks were worn when in shared spaces and class sizes capped at ten people. In true Miraval fashion, even the act of hand washing was made meaningful when paired with a wellness mantra.

"The Best of Miraval event was amazing and exactly what we needed," said Member Michele W. “Miraval’s promise of respite and renewal was delivered. Truly a metamorphic experience inside and out. I can't wait to return.” 

Here is a daily journal on how they unplugged, recharged, and reconnected:

Day 1

After a restful night’s sleep, the first morning began with a desert hike through the dramatic yet peaceful landscape, the path curling among cactuses—many of which are over 100 years old. A silent walking meditation through the resort’s Sacred Labyrinth prepared their minds and bodies for the day ahead. Upon their return to the resort, Members enjoyed a well-earned made-to-order breakfast with selections crafted with ingredients from Miraval’s organic garden.

Later in the day, some Members were invited to conquer their fears while traversing a series of wires and poles suspended 30 feet in the air at the High Ropes Course. Others opted for the famed Equine therapy experience “It’s Not About the Horse”. During the experience the animal serves as an energetic mirror that reflects the patterns of learned behavior that either enhance or detract from your life. Members are able to recognize psychological blocks, explaining that it’s not about the horse, but rather them.

Day 2

Friday was a day filled with Miraval’s signature activities, including chakra yoga, a painting class, and Cardio Drumming—a high energy workout fusing traditional aerobics with the beat of drums.

Day 3

Saturday’s experiences delved deeper into the soul with a chakra crystal class and floating meditation followed by a soothing sound bath.

In the afternoon, Members attended the “All the Buzz” class, where they donned head-to-toe beekeeper suits alongside Miraval’s resident beekeeper, learning the importance of connection and community.

Other Miraval Musts

Following a tough Pilates Fusion workout, indulge in the Abundance Body Ritual, staged in the outdoor New Life Treatment rooms at the Life in Balance Spa.

Treat yourself to the Niramaya Facial, a 60-minute treatment reigniting your skin’s luminosity with a complexion-smoothing sweet cherry enzyme peel followed by an argan- and peptide-rich cream.

Walk Miraval’s organic garden, strolling past edible pea, cucumber, and onion flowers. You’ll learn why Tucson’s peaches rival those in Georgia.

Join Miraval’s master chefs and lead dietitians in discovering the secrets of longevity through food, wine, and culture during the Eat Well, Live Well experience. Enjoy an exciting dish while learning nutritional and culinary techniques that may help you live longer.