A place of history, hospitality, and diplomacy in the California desert.

With a side of Yoga, Tai Chi and Music.  We are blessed in the desert to have an abundance of natural beauty very close at hand.  Located in Rancho Mirage, Sunnylands is one of the most beautiful places to spend an afternoon.  Take a free Yoga or Tai Chi lesson, have lunch in the café, stroll the gardens and walk the round contemplative labyrinth (read the difference between a labyrinth and a maze below) while setting an intention and leave any negativity behind.

• The historic Sunnylands estate operates primarily as a private, high-level retreat center. Public access is limited to guided tours, offered when retreats are not in session. Tours and tickets.

  

Sunnylands Center & Gardens is a special place for those not familiar.  It first opened to the public in March 2012. Upon entering the 15-acre site, a winding driveway takes visitors through a desert art garden to the glass facade of Sunnylands Center. The spacious, contemporary building houses a rotating art exhibition, café, gift shop, and multimedia offerings that detail the history of Sunnylands and its founders, Walter and Leonore Annenberg.  For 40 years, Ambassadors Walter and Leonore Annenberg welcomed entertainment and world leaders to their winter estate in Rancho Mirage, California. 

Yoga in the Gardens

Yoga in the Gardens is an opportunity to experience poses ranging from beginner to intermediate.  Everyone gathers in a circle on the grass.  Yoga is offered Fridays at 10 am, November through April. These free 60-minute sessions are open to all age and experience levels.  Participants should bring yoga mats and dress comfortably. Sun protection and water are suggested.  Reservations are not required. Parking and admission are free.

Tai Chi in the Gardens

Tai Chi in the Gardens is an opportunity to experience a traditional teaching of the Yang Family 108 Long Form. Participants learn the beginning positions of the form rooted in tai chi philosophy and principles. No previous experience with tai chi is required.

Tai chi is offered on Saturdays at 10 am, November through April. These free 60-minute sessions are open to all ages and experience levels. Participants should dress comfortably. Sun protection and water are suggested. Reservations not required. Parking and admission are free.

What’s the difference between a Labyrinth and Maze?

While they both offer a sense of intrigue, a maze is designed to create confusion whereas a labyrinth offers the chance for contemplation. Rather than featuring wayward paths and dead-ends, labyrinths are unicursal, meaning they have a single path that weaves to the center and subsequently meanders back to the entrance. Many people find labyrinths to be a meditative experience.

Sunnylands Center & Gardens
37977 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270

Photos: d. king

Home