Hotel Review: Sensei Porcupine Creek

Serene pool at Sensei Porcupine Creek

Sensei Porcupine Creek is a desert oasis that effortlessly blends self-improvement with genuine relaxation. Akin to discovering a hidden gem, this retreat tucked away at the base of the Santa Rosa mountains offers a unique wellness escape.

Overall ****** (8 of 10)

Value *** (7 of 10)

Food ****** (9 of 10)

Design ******** (8 of 10)

Service ****** (7 of 10)

Location ******** (8 of 10)

PROS

• spa treatments were some of the best we’ve experienced

• Getting to enjoy 3 meals a day (plus pools snacks) by Nobu was a real highlight.

• the property was immaculate and at every turn, you discovered museum-worthy artwork

• The staff was warm and friendly

CONS

• Despite filling out our prearrival questionnaire weeks prior to our arrival, I had to reach out several times to our “pre-arrival specialist” without a return call before we could book our treatments and by then most were filled.

• Service was slow at times, but we were there to relax so not too much of an issue.

• No dedicated spa area with the typical sauna, steam room, cold plunge you find at most spa destinations.

OVERVIEW

Formerly Larry Ellison's private estate, the sprawling grounds boast museum-worthy art from Ellison's personal collection, turning every stroll into an art walk. The retreat caters not only to relaxation seekers from around the world but also beckons wellness enthusiasts from Los Angeles seeking a swift getaway.

The Sensei Way is the ethos to “move, nourish, rest.” Whether you opt for the customizable Discover Sensei or the immersive Guided Wellness Experience, each package is a curated journey led by certified professionals. Just be sure to book experiences early as learned they do fill up.

ROOMS

Our room was in the main Estate, but there are also larger villas on the property. All the rooms and villas had the same Japanese minimalist aesthetic to help transition you into the wellness mentality. The rooms were equipped with every amenity and the newest technology, think Toto toilets, electric blinds, ipads, etc. The bathrooms were huge and luxurious as well, with rainshowers and Dyson products.

Dining area at Sensei Porcupine Creek where guests can dine on Nobu for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

FOOD

If you are worried wellness experience means you’re only eating smoothies and salads, that is definitely the case here. Food is a pillar of the experience and it was one of the favorite parts of our stay. Sensei by Nobu menu elevated the culinary experience, seamlessly marrying classic Nobu flavors with locally sourced ingredients. We tried almost everything on the menu, and nothing disappointed. For breakfast be sure to try the Kaya Toast dipped in sous vide egg.

Hiking around Sensei Porcupine Creek

SPA

The spa is a haven of rejuvenation, where "rest" is elevated to an art form. Choose from an array of treatments, from traditional massages to cutting-edge tech experiences using Sensei's thermal mapping technology. We

While there is no traditional spa area with steam room, sauna, cold plunge, etc., we didn’t mind as most guests hung out around the pool or waited for their treatments in the living room area of the estate house.

Prepraing for the sound journey experience in the yoga pavillion

We appreciated that Sensei Porcupine Creek is committed to sustainable practices, from an all-electric golf cart fleet to onsite refillable water processing, showcasing a dedication to eco-friendly living.

Sensei Porcupine Creek provides a holistic wellness experience, encouraging guests to dictate their journey. While there still may be a few kinks to iron out on the service side, we would not hestitate to recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a gentle introduction to a luxury wellness retreat.