BY: CLAIRE SIERRA
Falling Out of Summer, Love?
Last night there was a nip in the air. Did you feel it? This morning: socks were donned. Could it be… the end of Summer? Really, already!?

It always brings a moment of ennui. Yet Autumn is such a gorgeous time here and a great time to travel—the crowds are thinned, and the weather is so perfect for wine-tasting, hiking, rafting, exploring… and just plain zoning out.

You need it, don’t apologize! The world today is a beautiful but complicated place. Many of you are so wrapped in stress it takes until checkout time to relax. We get it!

We’re constantly thinking of ways to help you unplug, recharge and reconnect. A core belief for us is that getting away for an elegant rejuvenative experience does not have to be exclusive, elitist, or harm the planet.

We bet you feel that way too.

Adventures in Learning & Exploration
One fun way to recharge is on weekend excursions. No tests and papers are due at the end—the only things exchanged are knowledge, wonder and maybe a few hugs with other participants.
Autumn is the perfect time for this sort of escapade. It’s great to do solo (you meet travel buddies) or deepen your connection with a friend or beloved.

One favorite (this is filling up quick!) is exploring the Oregon Trail Tour: Along Barlow Road —the pioneer and native perspective—with someone who knows where to look. It’s a sweet easy adventure.

Maybe wine is your thing? We’re putting finishing touches on a tour that combines hiking, sustainable viticulture, and winetasting during foliage season, when the Gorge comes alive with color. Foliage and Fall Wine Frolic, is easy rambles through vineyards, examining fall fruit and gorgeous vistas. This year we’re featuring the sustainable practices of few of our favorite wineries in the region. Imbibe their knowledge and wines in beautiful Pacific Northwest style.

Those are both in October, so sign up quick.

Need a weekend of hope and inspiration?
So many of us are boondoggled at the state of the world today. We feel it and care, yet don’t know what to do—much less what to think.

We have a couple of ideas that could help. Maybe one of these experiences is just what you need?

Maybe you’re needing some time and space with other women to connect with your inner wisdom and Divine guidance. Reconnect with a you that’s soulful, spiritual and embodied.

Explore what it means to awaken Divine Feminine in you everyday. Access your own path of self empowerment that’s deeply restorative, creative and illuminating. Awaken Your Feminine Soul in November is now $300 off (don’t delay! This super early bird registration ends September 1).

Or create your own retreat! Try our new Stay & Spa lodging package: When you book a Signature Room midweek, you get room discount plus a focused 30-minute treatment (choose from Facial, Reiki, AromaTouch or ReflexFeet). You can see the details and sign up HERE.

Have you made it to Balch Bistro lately?
We’re cooking up some foodie experiences this Autumn too. So, if these weekend excursions don’t float your boat, we’re putting details together for Winemaker’s Dinner with Garnier Wines and a Brewer’s Dinner with Freebridge Brewing. Stay tuned for details on these delicious events.

People are raving about Tri Tip Fridays! And Specials on Saturdays are equally delish!

So if you’re local, please stop in for dinner on the weekends (always best to make reservations, you know,)

Whether alone or with companions, retreats and workshops away from home open us to new vistas. As cooler Autumn rolls in, we hope to see you soon.

The magic is closer than you think!

Claire & Josiah for Team Balch

P.S. Ready for more intensive rejuvenation? Try our new Stay & Spa lodging package: When you book a Signature Room midweek, you get room discount plus a focused 30-minute treatment (choose from Facial, Reiki, AromaTouch or ReflexFeet).

Customize your own retreat. Add a Bliss at the Balch Spa Wellness Package to your stay at the Balch. (Scroll down for details below.)