Mexico: Hands-on kitchen and spa, for $300

If you look — and feel — like you need a massage and a day at the spa, Rancho La Puerta has a deal for you.

The Baja resort, an hour’s drive south of San Diego, is offering Saturdays at the Ranch, a one-day visit that includes fitness and spa activities, meals and a hands-on afternoon in a class at the culinary center.

The ranch and spa, tagged World’s Best Destination Spa by Travel & Leisure readers in 2010 and 2011, is a 3,000-acre property that specializes in health and wellness activities. Its multi-day programs include exercise, healthful cuisine, spa amenities and entertainment. Rates for seven nights start at $3,250, double occupancy.

But the Tecate, Mexico, spa’s Saturday experience is $235 per person, or $300 including a 50-minute massage. Groups from 12-16 can also be accommodated.

The day includes round-trip transportation from San Diego, fitness class, free time to explore the gardens, pool and tennis courts, lunch, a three-hour culinary experience at La Cocina Que Canta and dinner.

Rancho La Puerta also recently announced another new program, in partnership with Lifewellness Institute, a San Diego medical center. The Executive Wellness program provides a one-week healthcare experience that includes a physical exam, information about individualized health risks and a comprehensive fitness and nutrition plan. The Executive Wellness program, in addition to Rancho La Puerta’s seven-night package, costs $6,950 per person.

Info: (800) 443-7565

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