Spring break is around the corner, and many of us need exactly that: a break so we can regroup, reconnect and rejuvenate. If you’ve been seeking an ideal getaway not far from home, check out the Ojai Valley Inn and Spa, a recipient of the AAA Five Diamond Award for Excellence.

Located in the beautiful Ojai Valley, the sprawling, historic resort originally opened its doors in 1923 as a private country club. Today, after a $90-million renovation that began in spring 2005, the inn features a 31,000-squarefoot, state-of-the-art spa, a championship golf course that’s hosted seven PGA tournaments, an Artist Cottage and Apothecary, tennis courts, swimming pools, luxury accommodations and award-winning cuisine.

Paramount to the inn’s philosophy is the promotion of health and well-being. Yoga, tai chi, balance work, massages and facials are offered.

Unique to the spa experience is the recent addition of the Kuyam treatment. Used for mind and body relaxation and meditation, the combination of warm wood tones and cobalt blue and white tile make the Kuyam an aesthetically pleasing, soothing chamber used for the self-application of healing clays. A lemongrass infused moisturizer permeates the air.

The Artists Cottage and Apothecary offers guests the opportunity to sample herbs, many of them grown in the inn’s herb garden, and to create personalized sachets and oils that can be used in the spa and then taken home.

The charming cottage is also the place to embark on a personal journey of self-discovery. Art may be created using a variety of media, including oils, pastels, watercolors, precious metal jewelry and silk scarf painting.

Executive Chef Jamie West and his culinary team create delicious food using the seasonal fare of the Ojai Valley orchards, ranches and farms. West calls it “cuisine that is inspired by the bounty and driven by the season, with global influence.”

Rosemary, basil, thyme and tarragon are among the herbs harvested daily from the inn’s abundant herb garden and incorporated into the menus of the four restaurants. Local wines as well as wines from 20 countries are featured.

I enjoyed a superb rosemary chicken Cobb salad with public relations manager Veronica Cole at the spa restaurant, Cafe Verde. Cole said the inn’s basic cuisine principle is to offer a variety of fresh, healthy foods to be enjoyed with occasional indulgences.

“You could enjoy a smoothie or you could enjoy Kobe beef sliders at Neff Lounge. We offer our guests a choice,” she said. “But whatever is prepared, the finest and freshest ingredients are used.”

As Cole spoke of indulgences, the pastry chef had prepared one of the most delicious, memorable desserts I’ve ever had— profiteroles, small cream puffs filed with a whipped cream and topped with a chocolate ganache. The actors do They are served in a cone-shaped glass (think of a martini glass without a stem) that’s placed in a larger glass filled halfway with a thick, rich, decadent vanilla milkshake. Unbelievable!

Without a doubt, that dessert rated a 10 out of 10 times three for inventiveness, presentation and taste.

The rooms at the inn are spotless, comfortable and luxurious without being pretentious or fussy. All modern amenities are offered, but the one unique to the inn is its serenity. Rooms afford beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, pathways and gardens. The staff is attentive, friendly and accommodating.

Time spent at the inn can be filled with activity or solitude. It’s worth checking the website www.ojairesort.com for special events, including the Arts and Leisure series, which offers culinary demonstrations, artists in residence, guest speakers and much more.

Those of us in “Acorn Country” are incredibly fortunate to have this gem so close to home. We can enjoy the Ojai Valley Inn and Spa for an overnight getaway or we can have a lovely meal at the inn or a day at the spa. One way or another, we will come home transformed by the gracious charm and serenity of this special retreat.

The Ojai Valley Inn and Spa is at 905 Country Club Road, Ojai. Call (888) 697-8754.