Rejuvenate mind, body and spirit at Refuge, a blissful sanctuary on two acres in the Carmel Valley hills.

It was built in 2011 as the nation’s first hydro-thermal destination, with a eucalyptus steam room, a huge co-ed cedar sauna (the largest in the USA), 6 hot and warm pools, 6 nordic pools (ocean and icy river temperatures), thermal waterfalls and indoor and outdoor relaxation areas.

The recommended hydro-thermal cycle is:

1. Heat Up in the sauna or steam room (5 to 10 minutes)
2. Cool Down in the cool and cold pools (10 to 60 seconds)
3. Relax in indoor zero-gravity recliners or in adirondack chairs near outdoor fire pits

Repeat the above steps 3 to 5 times, then explore the 6 thermal waterfall pools.

Swimsuits are required and you must be 18 years or older. Talking is not allowed—€”not even whispers.

Plan to stay at least two hours —€” or three hours if you book an optional massage. Stay all day if you like, but food is not allowed on site. Fill up before or after, or head to the athletic club café for a bite.

Location: At the Carmel Valley Athletic Club, 2.1 miles east of Highway 1 via Carmel Valley Road, then .8 mi south (right) to the CVAC parking lot.

See and save more places to create your own itinerary or modify a Bindu itinerary.

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  Photo by Heidi McKay
• 
  Photo by Heidi McKay
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  Photo by Heidi McKay