Menla Retreat & Dewa Spa

The food is great. Yes it’s vegetarian but they have eggs and dairy. No ice cream though. Fresh fruit juice in the AM. Not just OJ but passion fruit, Grapefruit, etc. It was a treat. I didn’t go hungry w the three meals a day. The salad bar had roasted pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds. They had bread and gluten free bread. Overall 5 stars for the food and the attentive kitchen staff. Went there for a yoga retreat. Was going to camp but stayed in the room. It was a double and I had it to myself. The bed was hard. Very uncomfortable. I was eaten alive by ‘no see-ems’. Not sure what type of bug but I was kept up at night being bit. Wasn’t bed bugs because I couldn’t find them. Also not mosquitos. I overheard some people talking by breakfast about being bitten too. It took about 7 days for the bites to go away. I would have been better off camping. Back to the positive. The spa is very nice. I didn’t get a treatment but used the day pass. The facilities are state of the art. The grounds are beautiful. Wild flowers everywhere. Nice hiking trails. Peacocks and other wild creatures freely roam around. Tons to see and do.

I had a fabulous Tibetan Tones Sound Healing treatment with Jennifer Muir. It was in the Sanctuary which is a bit of heaven on earth overlooking the gorgeous mountains. Jennifer is the real deal. A very gifted, intuitive and compassionate sound healer. The minute I walked in for my session, she welcomed me and was so kind. I have had a lot of healing sessions in my life, but this was by far one of the best. She placed singing bowls on my body and played them while the healing vibrations pulsated through my being. I was working on a particular challenge in my life and after the session I felt a dramatic healing. Please give yourself the gift of experiencing Jennifer's exquisite musical and healing gifts. She is one of a kind!

Everything is exceptional, from the staff to the grounds, the scenery to the food. I was here filming a mediation and yoga retreat for a week, and every day felt equal parts intentional and imbued with beauty.

Incredible stay, retreat, food and spa experience. An absolutely gorgeous place, beautiful people, healing practitioners and delicious food. I will keep returning.

Amazing experience! My husband and I spent our 3rd anniversary staying in the Catskills, which was a short drive over to this place for their day-spa. We loved the massages and really appreciate getting to speak with the massage therapists first to go over what hurts, areas of focus, and some history. I felt treated like royalty and we just really enjoyed our time there! The customer service is TOP NOTCH. The entire experience was relaxing and just what we needed to unwind. This trip has been our favorite trip we’ve ever taken, a big part of that is Menla.

Just spent the day at the spa, and here I am in the afterglow of pure bliss. The energy and love that the staff and practitioners exude is reaffirming that there are true healers offering their gift in a space not of spa pretense or formality, but in love and kindness…set in a clean, relaxing environment tucked in the magical energy of the Catskill Mountains. The joy of being surrounded in deep spiritual traditions, honored still today was a gift. Jeanettes Kunye massage was beyond description, so very grateful to have had that healing experience, and Miriam’s bath potions are truly sublime. It expanded my knowledge of Tibetan history and medicine that has always called and intrigued me. Dewa Spa is a beautiful gift to give yourself or someone you love, and I can’t wait to return again and again.

I had the great pleasure of staying at Menla Retreat Center for four days. While there, I indulged in several of the treatments at the Dewa Spa. This is not your traditional resort spa. It is an amazing health and wellness center that takes spa treatments (and pampering) to a whole new level! I had four treatments: KyNye Massage, Nejang Tibetan Longevity Yoga, Anti-Aging Facial, and the Tibetan Tones Sound Healing. It's seriously difficult to pick which one is the best. They are all very different and I'm glad I did each one but if you forced me to pick one, it would be the KyNye Massage. It is extremely relaxing. While the therapist didn't work out any knots, after the massage, my knots were gone. I had an amazing night's sleep that night and I'm sure the massage was the reason. Now a word about Menla Retreat Center -- when you enter the property, there is instant peace. It is breathtakingly beautiful with many hiking trails of different difficulty. They serve three meals a day (it was included in the price of our retreat) and the food is delicious. As one would expect, it is largely vegan (though there are some dairy and eggs available), serving whole grains, organic vegetables, unlimited tea and a varied menu. There's no reason to leave the property once you arrive. Will I go back? YES! My only question is how soon!

This was the most beautiful spa I have been to. It exudes calmness and peace and is the perfect place to take time for oneself. Everyone who works there was so friendly and helpful. I was lucky enough to get three different treatments each one more amazing than the last.

If I could describe Menla in one word, that word would be CATHARTIC. I stayed only for the weekend, but my experience was just that! Purifying, cleansing (both physically and spiritually). I live and work in Queens, NY. I have a very busy life and demanding career. But if you are like me, someone who has lived the urban life for years... just the loud busy-ness, the traffic congestion, the financial expense, the rush and hustle... it'll start to get to ya after a while. I NEEDED this trip. Thank the Universe, it was amazing. As soon as I arrived, I could feel the stress being sucked right out of my body through my toes. Ahhhhh. Amazing. The air is clean. The mountains and the beauty of nature (i.e., ponds, plants, trees, hiking trails) surround you. I saw all kinds of animals that I would never see back home: two black bear, a family of wild turkeys, deer, chipmunks, little baby bunnies and a mommy bunny, a bat which somehow got into one of the buildings, all kinds of birds, and a little tiny mouse. :) I went swimming in the pool at the spa. I couldn't detect any chlorine, which was REALLY NICE (side note: NYC public/gym pools are overloaded with chlorine). I wonder if it was treated with salt water? Not sure, but it was a pleasure to swim in. So much fun! The spa is absolutely beautiful. I had an AMAZING massage by Sandra. So therapeutic. I also stayed in a lovely room. It was very clean and nicely decorated. Also, and more importantly, I slept like a baby. The bed and linens were super comfy. Downstairs, in the dining room, I enjoyed delicious vegan meals. Heavenly! I'm not sure if my experience was unique, or if the culture attracts the kind of people I met, but I actually became acquainted with some of the visitors. We stayed up one night until the wee hours of the morning laughing over a game of Taboo. I had such a great time! I almost wish I could live there. :)

The retreat is really beautiful and offers interesting and enlightening experiences but the staff just was not very informative and a lot of them really seemed like they didn't know what they were doing. The food was really good and had lots of vegan/vegetarian options.

I for sure will be back at this place I just had this out of this world retreat experience at this place and I recommend everyone to attend one . Is a sacred place the house of Dalai Lama in North America very special location just stunning grounds. Exquisite all the activities. The food was so healthy and fresh and the staff extremely knowledgeable and friendly. Give it a try this place is very grounding and unique not one of those bourgeois and snobby places at all. It really makes you reflect and feel refreshed.

Very weird vibe given Off by person who answers the phone, Do they really want you to come and relax? Or is it a front for older jaded hippies trying to seem like they will get you to some unrealistic state of Zen consciousness?

I would never go to Menla because I had such a bad experience with the director. Once I had offered myself as a volunteer and they said "Come on up right away," so I tuned my whole life upside down to accommodate their request; and the following day got an email that said "Don't bother to come due to unforeseen circumstances." I asked the director for an explanation and he brushed me off with: "Life is full of change and flux, and if you can't adapt, you're not right for us anyway."

There is no way to describe the magic of Menla. It has changed the course of my life I feel every time I go there. Whether it's for a course, or a weekend, or a massage, I have gone in times of the most difficult feelings and felt safe, cared for, loved, transformed. Please consider going to this incredible place.

I came here with a party of four for a relaxing getaway with just the girls. We were looking for something geared towards yoga with spa treatment. We stumbled upon Menla and thought we'd give it a try. We contact them through email and they were very responsive and accommodating . We got a little lost when on the property because the signs didn't say Menla registration. But we eventually found our way. There really is no cell service up there but it wasn't a big deal. There is wifi throughout the grounds. On the first night we arrived. The only class assigned was a sound healing session which enlightening and relaxing to us. Mr. Thomas was skilled and interesting to watch. Loved that he didn't just sit there playing all types of instruments but he walked around so we could get the entire experience of it. The next day the one and only yoga class on the schedule was at 7 am. We joined and the instructor was absolutely AMAZING. she's a friendly and has a great personality. We actually took the same class the next morning because she was teaching. Following yoga and breakfast was a hike. The guide (Twan) was friendly and knowledgeable. He took us to Kaatskill Falls and the view was amazing. Although the schedule clearly stated that it was a hike with a snack. There was no snack provided and they said the snack only came with a 3+hour hike. We arrived back to Menla for lunch. Followed by spa. We had to make an appointment early because it was all booked up early. Even though we booked the spa retreat, which was suppose to include a massage it wasn't given to us and we had to pay extra for it. The sauna/steam room was small. The food was all organic but I guess it just didn't suit me. A few items were good. Like the cauliflower dish and the quinoa. Not a large selection though. I wasn't really impressed with the location. There were a few highlights but nothing spectacular. The company I was with was the only thing worth while and made this trip enjoyable. The price paid was not worth it. Tips: Bring bug spray and flashlight. Grounds aren't well lit Notes: -Their highlight is the sanctuary which has a great view unfortunately we didn't have a chance to experience practicing yoga in that room an extreme disappointment. -Spa retreat -massage is NOT included. Not worth the price. Only gave 10% discount on massages -Food- all vegetarian/organic. Not a huge selection -Yoga-only one class offered per day-also a disappointment.

I booked 3 spa treatments 2 weeks in advance for my wife and 2 daughters for a birthday. Filled out 9 pages of paperwork. The morning of the treatment, a lovely women calls and informs me that due to the "weather" the appointment is canceled. Apparently the therapist cant drive in the rain. I was told about the horrific conditions on the mountain, as I looked out the window and only saw a wet road. For fun, I drove up the mountain road an hour before our appointments and saw a very safe wet road. Lots of people driving. They have no plan for an unprofessional therapist who cant get out of bed. Ruined our whole day. Very unprofessional. Recommend a spa that cares about their customers and respects our time.

I like the setting quite a bit but cannot say I will return any time soon. Menla does not radiate wellness or healing energy for a couple of years now. I left feeling depressed instead of better and when I shared my experience with a friend she showed me how Menla condones killing for sport. No wonder it's absent that spiritual potency.

Found Menla online when searching for a place to go for a healing retreat and solitude. I did a make your own retreat for two nights and signed up for three spa services including a mudras meditation, deep tissue massage and acupuncture. The spa is great. Very relaxing. I found the meditation to be very healing and just what I needed. The instructor was kind, instructive and intuitive. The massage was one of the best massages ever. The acupuncture and cupping was a new experience for me but also very restorative. I loved nights in the red barn, sitting warm by the fireplace watching Emily in Paris on Netflix and playing billiards. I went in the winter but would welcome an opportunity to come back in the summer and try out one of their scheduled retreats as do the nature hikes. Still the grounds were beautiful even in the winter. Accommodations are basic, nothing fancy so temper expectations and it will be fine. The staff were very kind and helpful. They served vegetarian food that was very healthy and filling. I did venture out one morning to try the Phoenician diner for breakfast which did not disappoint. If you're looking for a peaceful retreat to get centered, enjoy the spa, do some healing and appreciate the solitude of nature then consider Menla.

Menla is great but the communication style .. When trying to EMAIL AN CALL IN THE 8AM-5PM WINDOW...they do NOT ANSWER THE PHONE especially if you want to make an appointment with the SPA an also the front desk does not answer AT 8AM...they NEED TO IMPROVE THE COMMUNICATION STYLE I hope management reads this an takes this seriously..

Came here for a yoga training for a week and loved my experience here. You are surrounded by nature and feel as if you are in another world. The food that was provided to us never disappointed me. It was so delicious and loved everything I had that week. Cell service does not work in Menla but they do have wifi. I felt that not having cell service really enhanced my stay. I gave this review 4 stars because I did have some issues with the laundry service that made it to me 2 days late. But overall, my stay here was great and would come again!

It's a lovely space. My massage was ok. My masseuse was condescending and talked about politics throughout - the massage wouldn't have been great, regardless, but with addition of being annoyed the entire time, I definitely won't be back or recommend to anyone.

Come here for a Winter retreat! It is so incredibly beautiful! Warming up by the fire in the early mornings before meditation, the walk through the woods and atmosphere of calm and beauty is medicine in our busy world. I highly recommend Menla

This my first time visiting Dewa Spa at Menla. My husband and I both got 90 minute massages. We couldn't get a couples massage due to COVID (almost all SPAs have this restriction) but we just scheduled them for the same time, no big deal. I got the Swedish massage and my husband got the deep tissue massage. My massage was with Ron, and it was AMAZING and so therapeutic! He hit all the pressure points and released any tension i may have had. I felt so relaxed and rejuvenated afterwards. The Spa itself was beautiful, very zen like. My husband had Corrine for his deep tissue and she was wonderful as well. He enjoyed his massage. We were up in the Catskills for a weekend getaway and i would drive back 2 hours just to have a massage with Ron again, it was that GOOD!

No words can really express how I feel about this, but I will make a feeble attempt. I came here for a YTTP yoga retreat this past weekend and it was a mind blowing experience. Menla is located about 4 hours north from NYC and it is nestled in lush greenery with total serenity and peace. Menla is operated by Tibet House US and the Dalai Lama has stayed here in the past. To stay in the same place as his Holiness is a blessing and privilege. It is as if I could feel his love and tranquility vibrating all throughout. There was no phone service the whole time at Menla and I didn't mind that much. Sometimes, it is just good to disconnect from the world. I really had time to just focus on thoughts and emotions. I stayed in room #7 in the Hill House with 3 other roommates. The room was extremely comfortable with shower and sink. Don't expect a TV. Your door opens to nature and overlooks the Delos Inn. Many of our events occurred at the conference center which has a lounge and also a multipurpose room. They also have a separate yoga studio that easily fit all of us (48 people). We were also able to go on an amazingly challenging hike and the view was well worth it, but make sure you are cardiovascular fit or else it will feel like torture. I also spotted lots of wildlife including deers, chipmunks, and woodpeckers. Make sure to bring a flashlight as it is pitch dark in the evening. Other amenities include: sauna swimming pool outdoor tennis courts (2) bookstore and cafe fitness center natural trails and hikes This was a great way to detox and cleanse the mind and body. I would definitely come back for future retreats!

This was hands down the best spiritual retreat experience I've had since I left my teacher's ashram. Omega, Kripalu, Esalen don't compare to the lovely energy happening at Menla. The small, intimate facilities allow them to make delicious food, very sattvic & each meal feels restoring to vitality. The staff is very kind and helpful. Everyone we met seemed to have a fullness of heart and a strong dedication to be of service to the place & the guests. The environs are gorgeous! The hiking trails are well marked. I could spend 100 days here & never wish for the outside world. I cannot recommend this place more.

Beautiful place, amazing massages. I highly recommend visiting the Dewa Spa. The food however is not so great. The portions are so small it was very sad. I would recommend bringing some groceries with you. I was really not satisfied. Which is disappointing because the rest of the place was absolutely beautiful. The staff were not too friendly I'm guessing they were hungry.

Hubby and I went for a relaxing vacation upstate. I was hoping for peace of mind and much needed R&R for a day or two. When we got upstate, we didn't have internet service but we got our hands on some local guides and that is how we found this place. It advertised as a yoga and meditation center with a spa. The good: The space is gorgeous. They have a pool, a garden, a calming lake and an overall zen feel. The spa has Ayurvedic and Tibetan options with beautiful facilities. The bad: I didn't know they had free wifi everywhere so first thing I did was to go to the front desk and ask for information. I wanted to know if they had programs, how we could get a day pass and how we could get a meal at the cafeteria. It didn't matter what I asked, the answer was: "go online". I travelled 3 hours from home to be in that area, I was in front of a live person... Why did I need to go online? The front desk person I was talking to didn't want to be bothered. He finally told me that you can't really do anything unless you reserve in advance except for the spa. In hopes for better luck, we headed over to the spa. At the beautiful spa we were greeted by a volunteer who was much nicer than the front desk person. She explained the services to us and promised to email us the availability of the therapists after we gave her our preferred times. It sounded more promising... So we thought we will finally get the R&R we hoped for... But alas, another fail. While the girl emailed us the times, she sent it late in the evening (after we went to bed) and at times that were not convenient for us at all. It was too early for us to travel there and rush for treatment. We tried calling and left several messages, but heard nothing back. When we asked to reschedule it was another fail. Apparently nobody works there at this time of the year. We also found out that we were not allowed to eat at the cafe because they were afraid we will eat all the food (as guests have done before?). It's just two of us and we aren't heavy looking... They only way you can feel welcome here is if you are a Tibetan house member. Then they'll let you enjoy the facilities. Overall, while beautiful the place was disappointing. I did not feel welcome and the way front desk treated me was standoffish - not something I would expect in a spiritual place. So I get it... If you ever come here you have to reserve in advance, do your research and know exactly where you are going. Otherwise, you will feel like an outsider who isn't welcome and doesn't belong. So much for a spiritual experience... It's a members only kind of spirituality. If that's something that you are into - enjoy!

What do you want in a resort/retreat? A beautiful rural setting? Unique programs, including rare Buddhist trainings offered through Tibet House, with which Menla is affiliated? Terrific staff and interesting fellow-guests? Himalyan decor and spa services? Then this is your place. Or do you want barre and spin classes? Grilled chicken? AC? A window screen without a hole repaired with a wadded-up bit of paper towel? Nothing wrong with those things. You'll find 'em at Canyon Ranch. Me? I'm at Menla now and having a wonderful time. I feel like I've been blasted back to 1968, where I belong.

Menla is a hard place to review; aspects of my experience were 1 star while others were 5. Ultimately I realize I will return but wish I had known some things going into my retreat and hope these tips help someone else. Regarding accommodations; unless you want to run the risk of being in a musty room in an aging, yet charming cabin, book the deluxe queen. All the standard options are in the old, more run down outer cabins. I have allergies to mold and there was a real chance of a flare up in the room I was given. I was quite literally shocked to be told that my private room (shared bath) had NO KEY! As much as I want to trust all humans, I was not prepared to leave my valuables unattended in an unlocked room while at a week long retreat, but that is what I had to do. Next time I'll book a deluxe room and those have locking doors. I didn't realize this navigating the website, and was never able to ask staff questions I had while booking because they are poor at communication. Regarding communication; the front desk NEVER answers the phone, and emails may or may not be returned within 48 hours. Not only is this frustrating while booking, it's dangerous. Menla has no cell service so if you have a family emergency while on retreat your family will be hard pressed to get ahold of you quickly. Once I realized this I told my husband to call the local PD in case of true emergency while I was on retreat. However, much of Menla is 5 stars; I had a lovely spa treatment and the retreat I attended was top notch. The grounds are gorgeous and have a true healing energy. The food is simple, healthy and delicious, and as a vegan I was still able to eat almost everything! I'll be back. I hope this review helps you avoid the pitfalls I stumbled upon.

My family just spent a weekend at Menla. What a beautiful mountain view everywhere. We were welcomed with the kindest and most pleasant staff everywhere we went. The room was lovely and nicely decorated. The food combinations were so interesting, healthy and delicious. With three meals a day we didn't want to miss even one. Everything was so well taken care of. I especially loved the clean aromatic aromas everywhere. By streams in the area, were interesting artistic rock piles that were so fun as we hiked around the wooded areas. Wildlife was seen up close and it was fun to see them all around. They let us come so close before running away. The decor in all the buildings was so beautiful and the environment conducive of a restful pleasant atmosphere. Highly recommended. You will love it there.

The main positive is the staff, who are really friendly and just plain cool. The setting is also beautiful and the food is delicious and nourishing (although, I admit that I sometimes escape to get some meat and dairy in town...). The negative is the accommodation. My room is designated as a Deluxe Single Room, yet it smells very damp and moldy in my room and, and, although the website said hi-speed internet, that is inaccurate. Also, the windows don't close completely, so energy inefficient and little buggies squeezing in. When I checked in, I asked for a key and was told it was very safe and wouldn't need a key, which is true, but being here on my own as a woman, I feel a lot more comfortable locking my room at night. One night, I got locked out of my room (heading back to the main house to hop online as the local network wasn't showing up in my room) and turns out the key was lost months ago. The maintenance fellow was very helpful in getting me back in (through the window), but the reality of the set-up simply doesn't match up with what's presented on the website. The training I'm doing here is great, but I'm not sure I'd stay here the next time around.

I am coming back as soon as I can. Menla is both extremely peaceful and highly stimulating. The programing is phenomenal and the classes, spa, food, etc., are excellent. SO grateful it exists.

About a three-hour shuttle ride via Adirondack Trailways Shuttle from Port Authority Bus Terminal to Menla. As the landscape changes from cityscape to mountains, and as you witness your cell phone signal strength dwindle to "no service," you quite literally unplug yourself from the mundane hustle and bustle of everyday life back to simplicity of nature. I attended the "Buddha and the Yogīs" retreat with Robert Thurman, Richard Freeman and Mary Taylor. The program was extremely well-oiled and I'm already thinking about attending next year's event. Moreover, the lush campgrounds, spa services, friendly staff, and delicious vegetarian meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) helped complete a well-rounded, inspirational experience. A thousand thank yous.

Menla Retreat Center is an outstanding place to visit to destress. The grounds are ecologically and sustainably kept, food is nutritious and delicious, the staff is friendly, and the scenery is eye pleasing. My husband and I plan on making Menla a regular get away.

I'm sad to read the more recent reviews of this special place. I have been here many times to organized retreats and have always had excellent experiences. However, I haven't been back for a few years for the following reasons. The price is way too much for what they offer. I always came for the lectures and yoga and those were wonderful but the price is comparable to a high level resort and that is not what this is. It's a more basic spiritual experience. Also one of the very great highlights of the place was the food. A few years back the chef changed and the food took a downward turn. I expect that perhaps it was inexperience and hopefully it is now better. And the criticisms about the internet...who cares? Take a friggin break and enjoy this for what it is, not what you're missing online. It's unfortunate that the staff no longer responds to the yelp reviews.

I've been meaning to write this review for a long time. I suppose I put it off because it was such a negative and disappointing experience, I prefer not to remember. So last summer, as a gift to me, my father paid for 2 nights at Menla for a program I was very interested in (Buddha and the yogis). He did the same, the year before but I only stayed for 24 hours the first year. Let me say, the place is beautiful and the food was great (when they prepare enough and when they don't have you wait a half an hour to serve it -but that's a whole other story...). So my experience: when I arrived I was told I was lucky that the rain had ended and there was no more rain in the forecast (I was planning on camping on the grounds). With this information from the front desk person, I pitched my tent and did not put the rain fly on since they - the front desk- gave me this info about the weather. The first day, while I was attending the program, without my knowledge, it actually did rain. So I returned to my tent to find all my clothing, sleeping bag, etc sopping wet.. I told one of the people who worked there what happened. Keep in mind, it was late and I wanted to attend the class early on the next morning. I was told I could use the dryer to dry the items myself. I was also told I could stay in the dorm. I was surprised because of the nearly $500 price tag for 48 hrs (while camping) that they could not support me by drying it for me so that I would not have to miss sleep, the program, or a meal. I also went to the dorm to find what looked like no bed available. I talked to another person who worked there about this. He showed me a bed that looked slept in and said this one is clean even though it did not appear clean and the bed was not made. When I pointed out it had no pillow case, I was told to wrap my clothing around it and that should be fine. I was also told that even though there was something like 20 people in the room, that there were quiet hours and people were very quiet. This was not true, in fact, people were talking at normal levels after 1030 for quite awhile even though our wake up time was 5am. I decided to try to sleep on some cushions in the room across the hall which was a gym... I was exhausted and just needed to get some sleep! Well, the gym had rodents... it was so pitiful that it was funny. I returned to the dorm for almost no sleep because of someone's alarm going off at 430am for early morning yoga practice. The following day, I did not want to miss any of the interesting but expensive program to dry my own bedding and clothing, I spoke to one worker trying to explain why I did not want to miss any of the program to dry my things! I still got no assistance and a lot of talk which in itself was a practice to not let it disturb me. For example, i was told they decided only to let people camp on the grounds who were experienced campers from then on... Well, guess what? I am an experienced camper. So experienced that I know that in national parks, retreat centers, and ashrams that up to date weather info is given by the facility to the campers (including sudden changes in weather). Up to date weather info was always provided by Sivananda ashram, Harbin, Sierra hot springs, national parks I have camped at, etc. Note, that these were not upscale expensive destinations like Menla. I was told this one or that one would take care of me and that the manager wanted to see me before my departure. No manager appeared and I could not find the manager. I was told I would receive an email and that I would be taken care of for the extreme hassle.. no email arrived. The worker I spoke the most with told me to email him if it was not resolved. I emailed him but there was no reply. And then how to return and tell my father how it was after he gave me such a thoughtful gift.

Not sure what happened to this place but it's not as clean as it used to be. Today was a disappointment all around. In the middle of August 87 degrees and the AC wasn't working. The place was humid and hot inside. The bath they prepared was steaming; even boiling hot. It burnt me. I had to add half the tub with cold water to cool it down, which diluted the flower bath. With the AC off and the hot bath, i felt like suffocating. So decided to take a swim in the pool. But yuk so many dead bugs in there. Almost swallowed so many. It was nasty. For the money we pay they need to be cleaning it throughout the day. Decided to take a shower and head home. But wait; disgusting black mold all over the shower sides.., almost threw up. I decided this will be the last time there. Not sure what happened to this place, but it's not being maintained at all. It's hazardous and overpriced . Today was a waste of money and time.

The food was fantastic, the pool was very nice, and the setting was spectacular!

Amazing place. Comfortable. Food is good. Staff is great. I came for a 6 day cleanse. Location is breath taking. It has a feel that is unique even in this area of the Catskills. It is isolate at the proverbial end of the road. You never tire of walking the area. They have an abundance of trails that are beautiful and allow one to reflect on life. If you choose you will never see anyone on the trails. The accommodations are efficient and comfortable. Perfect of the venue and not missing in any of your daily needs. The spa is fine centered mostly on massage therapy not the comfort spa that most of us have frequented. They do have a number of saunas that are great. That being said the venue is more about yoga, meditation and conference around a theme. This is not a luxury get-away. The cleanse was great. Plenty of food that helped manage the process. The food was good and satisfying. Nonetheless it is a cleanse. Some of the staff participated and they do have a number of very knowledgeable people that are assisting you throughout the process. I feel 10x better. Inflammation is way down and my head is clearer. I waited to long too do this. One of the great things that was done was to coordinate morning, afternoon and evening activities are yoga, meditation and eastern philosophy. I left with a wealth of knowledge that will allow me to better explore those activities that are best suited to me. I highly recommend Menla and I will definitely be back.

Menla is a wonderful retreat center in the Catskills of New York. It is a get-away from the outside world. A place you can leave everything behind. Aaaah. Unwind. I loved that there was no cell service. But we were able to access wifi so we could connect with the outside world when necessary. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The food was amazing and I greatly appreciated the time that went into growing, preparing and presenting it. When I learned that many of the staff lived there, I told "C", who was setting up the conference center for our retreat, "I want to live here too!" The stream, the mossy rocks, the trails, the mountains, the views, the fresh air and silence fed my soul. The accommodations were wonderful as well. Clean, nicely decorated rooms, with a variety of options. I do wish there were regular yoga classes though. That is the only thing I could think of that they could add. And maybe a notice that states, "Bears live here" : ) I didn't see any but I wish I had. Others in my group saw a mamma and her two babies in a tree. I was attending a Qigong Conference and we had everything we needed. Menla is a perfect retreat center, as far as I am concerned.

I've been to Menla twice for yoga trainings. It's a beautiful place and I like that my cell phone doesn't work there - it helps me disconnect, which is part of the reason I come. I've stayed in the cabins, which are nice, but not luxurious. The scenery is so nice that it doesn't need to be overshadowed by the accommodations. The food is wonderful, especially if you are trying to eat healthy or are a vegetarian or vegan. I love their scrambled eggs and pancakes. They also have a garden which likely provides some of the food for the kitchen.

SO AMAZING! Fabulous staff! I left my sweatshirt there and they sent it back to me! The food was amazing and the hiking trails were cool.

I had an extraordinary weekend at Menla. The campus is absolutely stunning, the accommodations are amazing..and the food is to die for!!! Also, with the spa as well as the yoga/meditation facilities are as good as it gets!!!

This place is amazing! I just got back from a 5 days at Menla and I couldn't have enjoyed it more. It's green EVERYWHERE you look, the staff is super friendly and the facilities are comfy. I couldn't recommend Menla more highly.

A wonderful place. I have already been to two retreats there, one a week long Ashtanga yoga retreat and also a separate weekend. I have been to many retreats, monasteries, and universities, and this is my favorite place for finding a path to a new and more joyful and tranquil life. Robert Thurman is the most inspiring teacher I have every encountered. Very lovely people, beautiful setting and dining and meeting rooms, pleasant bedrooms and bathrooms, tasty food, and most important, great programs. The staff is so helpful, always preferring to say "yes" to any request. Also met such interesting new people and am in touch with several of them months later. I am only giving it five stars because I can not give it ten!

I spent the week of October the 2nd. in a yoga and meditation retreat. What a beautiful place! High in the Catskills mountains, where you can see the stars at night, and the trees are as high as the sky. The accommodations are not luxury ,but they were perfect. Everybody is so kind and nice. We got to practice different kinds of yoga, and went to a couple of hikes. I felt happy and relaxed. They also have an amazing spa (that you have to book and pay apart). How I never heard of this place before? Now I can not wait to go again.

I have many words but I will use this: streams. This whole valley is full of incredible streams. I came as a part of YTTP retreat this past weekend and loved how the valley of Menla just belonged to each and everyone one of us, together and alone at the same time, I stayed at Dragon house and loved how at home you are made feel though no one really is there guiding you, you are your own guide. I will remember this stay for a long time, the 2 days will last a life time. I hope to return one day. Thank you!

Overrated. Beautiful setting but energy isn't quite right. Attended by people who have a high opinion of themselves, each claiming to be on the path to greater spiritual awakening. But you'll never see actual people on the path to enlightenment behaving or dressing like this group...probably has to do with the management or ownership? If your actions don't match your speech, there won't be results. So my final impression? The services being sold are definitely designed to make a quick buck, with no real interest in ultimate wellness and wellbeing at all.

This place was eerie. On the outside it seemed nice enough, beautiful landscape, facilities you would need, etc. But there was just something that felt off about the place while I was there. People there were friendly, but to be honest it all felt a little contrived. I've been to a couple of places like this before but I don't think I will be back here again. Personally, it isn't a place I would like to stay for long. I felt really strange when I finally left the place.

Recently took a course at Menla and heres my thoughts on it, in-depth workshops with amazing teachers, very nice accommodations, the Tibetan doctor at the Spa was really knowledgable, and very good food. Nena Thurman thank you for creating this special space.

You know that thing when you think you soul might be finally crushed for good and the nameless, wordless, friendless dread of the city has sucked you dry? Well, this place has the cure. You can help with the grounds and garden, you can yoga and meditate, you can get the best massage in 48 states, you can eat the most delicious vegetarian cuisine, and my favorite, walk the trails and paths through bubbling brooks and over rushing waterfalls and regain your spirit and feel the beat of your heart in time to nature. The breathtaking views from hilltops and soaring eagles and lush greenery fills me with ease and calm.

The week-end retreat was great. Staff was very friendly and helpful. A great place to rest and relax in a beautiful setting.

Seeking a new and more meaningful and healthy way to begin the New Year, I chose to attend the 5 day Meditation/Yoga Retreat offered here and plan to make it my new annual custom. Beside walks near the top of a beautiful mountain, stars and skylines, I enjoyed excellent organic food, and organic bedding in clean, nicely done room with beautiful mountain views, and pleasant helpful staff. The speakers yoga instructors were giants in their fields (Robert Thurman-Buddhism, Sharon Salzberg - Insight Meditation / Carolyn and Brooke from the Ivangar Yoga Institute of NYC taught technique as well as philosophy). People came from Holland, Germany, San Francisco, Chicago, Boston, NYC, Brooklyn, Missouri.... Being around friendly and happy people with positive attitudes interested in understanding and enjoying life in all it's vicissitudes, curiosity, and making a better world was intoxicating and became the way I want to celebrate my New Year in the future.

Having never gone to a spa or retreat, I heard this is the place to go. The mountains, the hiking trails, the wildlife, and the vastness of the place set up the parameters for a happy and interesting week. Every staff person I encountered could not have been more welcoming. One new employee said all the supervisors treat each other and other employees as well as they treat their guests. Vegetarian food is fresh and excellent. Wait till you see the modern yet traditional spa. The main house and Hill House rooms are lovely. I came to learn yoga from outstanding teachers and to relax and get some care taking. Mission accomplished.

This is one of the most exquisite places to enter into spiritual work. The geography, the care full attention to detail. The food. And, the presence of loving kindness in those who serve there.