Encinitas, California
Twelve Senses Retreat
Elemental modernist guesthouse
Elemental modernist guesthouse
The solar-powered residence runs as an intimate guesthouse, dedicated to non-toxic living with daily organic breakfasts and private yoga.
What it’s good at
Notable
Private kundalini yoga sessions complement an outdoor traditional sauna and infrared tub.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
The interiors are visually focused and soothingly spare…they’re a quiet feast for the eyes, featuring pieces by a globe-spanning collection of designers.
Somewhere quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
The house sits on a quiet residential street, with Moonlight Beach and Highway 101 cafes a mile to the west.
The rooms
Suites interpret the natural elements using charred timber and recycled felt. The Earth room adds a private outdoor shower.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The swimming pool sits in the private backyard of the Aether Suite, bordered by a shaded dining pergola.
The spa
Yoga on the deck
Private Vinyasa and Restorative flows take place on the stone patio or inside the thatched poolside cabana.
Restaurant
Roof Deck Patio
The open roof deck holds an outdoor kitchen and bar counter, with dining tables beneath umbrellas and string lights.
At the table
Organic breakfast trays arrive with pasture-raised eggs, seasonal fruit, and hot coffee served straight to bed.
How it began
Designer Anke Bodack rebuilt the 1957 residence in 2019, drawing inspiration from philosopher Rudolf Steiner's concept of twelve human senses.
Encinitas
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.