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Retreats
Sensei Porcupine Creek
Back ToThis secluded estate in the Coachella Valley has long provided a sanctuary for wellness seekers, artists, visionaries and adventurers. From your enviable position at the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains, experience the restorative benefits of an arid climate, marvel over a rocky landscape dotted with towering date trees and desert-dwelling palms and enjoy easy access to the nine cities that comprise this unique Southern California region.
A lush oasis amid the rock-strewn desert foothills, Porcupine Creek centers you in the natural beauty of Rancho Mirage. A well-maintained nature trail winds above the estate grounds, with a moderately challenging 500-foot elevation that rewards you with a sense of achievement as you complete the 1.4-mile route. Additional and more challenging hikes are within a short drive of the property.
At the junction of the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert lies Joshua Tree National Park, a surreal and wonderful protected landscape known for its unique flora. Rugged rock formations frame the unique Joshua Tree, a prickly plant that twists and rises and provides a habitat for all kinds of native wildlife.
As you meander among the iconic mid-century modern architecture that defines this vibrant city, discover a cultural star in the heart of the desert. Spend a day browsing among upscale boutiques and savoring the culinary delights of some of the world’s most acclaimed chefs. Culture seekers may appreciate a stroll among the Palm Springs Art Museum, while history buffs are often drawn to the historic Palm Springs Air Museum.
Soar more than 8,500 feet over the scenic San Jacinto Mountains via the Palm Spring Aerial Tramway, the world’s largest rotating tram car. The breathtaking Chino Cliffs plunge beneath you on this 10-minute journey that delivers you to the Mountain Station for shopping, dining and miles of high-elevation desert hikes.
More than 60 miles of hiking and walking trails wind through this ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Find the trails that meet your fitness level, crossing through groves of palms and marked by towering rocky formations and tumbling waterfalls.
Stargazing reaches new heights in this state-of-the-art observatory. Led by a resident astronomer and complemented by an array of expert speakers, observatory experiences reveal the wonders above illuminated in the dark desert sky.
Step onto this 200-acre estate and tranquil gardens to discover its enduring legacy in Rancho Mirage history. Once the private winter retreat for philanthropists Walter and Leonore Annenberg, Sunnylands has been at the epicenter of discourse and dialogue among world leaders, renowned intellects and global entertainers. Now open to the public, Sunnylands honors the natural desert landscape and sustainability efforts with its LEED Gold certification.
Get out into the wild at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, inhabited by desert-dwellers from around the globe. Considered one of the world’s best zoos, this Palm Desert attraction offers engaging animal encounters and wildlife chats with expert keepers.
As one of only two locations in the U.S., this racing track is set against a beautiful mountain backdrop. Fuel up your adrenaline over three unique tracks featuring hairpin turns and high-speed straights, guided by experienced instructors at every bend.
