Tassajara Zen Mountain Center — Attraction in Soledad

A True Sanctuary: Nourishing Body and Soul at Tassajara

My recent visit to Tassajara Zen Mountain Center was nothing short of transformative. Tucked away deep in the Ventana Wilderness, this place emanates a truly special, positive spiritual vibe that you feel the moment you arrive. It's a palpable sense of peace that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and simply be.

One of the most grounding parts of the day was participating in the morning rituals. Hearing the resonant Buddhist chant echo in the zendo, followed by the mindful practice of the Five Contemplations before breakfast, sets such a powerful tone of gratitude and awareness. It centers you and connects you immediately to the community and the essence of the place.

And the food! Every meal was a delight. You can truly taste the care and intention that goes into the preparation. The delicious, freshly made vegetarian cuisine is nourishing, flavorful, and clearly made with high-quality ingredients. It feels like fuel for both the body and the spirit.

A highlight is undoubtedly the bathhouse. Warmed by natural geothermal hot springs, the waters feel incredibly pure and possess a deeply healing effect. Soaking in the serene atmosphere, surrounded by the sounds of nature, melts away tension and leaves you feeling refreshed and restored on a fundamental level.

Being immersed in the raw beauty of the Ventana Wilderness, it's easy to understand why Tassajara feels so potent. Honestly, spending time there, soaking in the quiet practices, the nourishing food, and the healing waters, you might just start to believe that this remarkable place truly is the spiritual center of the Ventana Wilderness. It's a profound sanctuary for anyone seeking peace, reflection, and deep rejuvenation. Highly...

It's a quiet place with cabins you can rent and other types of lodging. Toilets only in some cabins (or all maybe) but no door. Cabin is comfortable and clean. There is a hot spring fed spa room, mens and women's sides. If you need services, A/C, etc. etc. you may not understand this place. It may be a stretch for you but keep an open mind, talk to other guests during lunch or dinner, 1-2 nights is enough time to start appreciating it unless you're really enjoying the serenity of it all. It's got a few trails but can't go too far. Cars can make it but sometimes it depends on the time of year (and the car), summer shouldn't be a problem. Truck (4x4) is a better choice in the winter. Motorcycles best if dual sport or knobby's regardless of time of year, I would have a few scary moments on a street tire, dirt is too loose. The people studying are all very nice and observe some silent periods but the guests are there mostly to experience it. The food is just a step above awesome. I couldn't find one thing I didn't like and regret not buying the cookbook, buy the book. You can also donate a little by adding it to your bill. Call in advance for info since things like wildfires etc. can affect the area and air quality. Don't pack for a trip, try to get it down to a small carryon or travel bag. No cell, computer etc....

It has been a long time ( 10 years) since I have been here and this was a wonderful return visit with friends. We decided to take the stage from Jamesburg this time as in the past our cars have been beat up ( lost muffler - once a flat tire on Toyota truck).||It was convenient & worry free and worth the cost.||We were lucky enough to share the Stone Suite- a favorite location - sleeps 4 -6. It is cool a beautiful with a deck along the river- very restful at night!||Many improvements have been done- new paint, curtain & roofs on cabins. And electricity - although our room still had kerosene lanterns, which I love!!!||Dining room improved- new ceiling with lights & fans. ||Outdoor guest refrigerator - stored our white wine :)||The pool was clean & refreshing- bug nets over a few chairs & new bathroom with cold water shower at pool!||Food was excellent vegetarian as always- some meals better than others, but all carefully prepared & presented.||Mineral baths wonderful & clean. At night you felt so relaxed!||New was Iced Latte to drink along with usual tea. A real afternoon treat!||Tassajara has a special place in my heart and I hope to...