Colorado’s Gateway Canyons Resort challenges women’s minds, bodies and spirits with a wellness retreat

Nestled within the breathtaking canyons of southwest Colorado, “soft adventure” destination Gateway Canyons Resort will host the second annual Women’s Wellness Weekend on July 24-26, 2009. Headlined by award-winning naturopathic physician, Dr. Penny Kendall-Reed, this weekend agenda may be just what the doctor ordered.

The women-only weekend focuses on wellness of body, mind and spirit while offering physical challenges, mental explorations and spiritual nourishment. It presents a chance for women to leave a familiar world for a few days and “get back to nature” – return home rested, rejuvenated and resolute in the intention to manage personal stress more effectively. Rates start at $575 per person, based on double occupancy.

“Sometimes you have to be outside to be able to go inside,” says Tammy Anderson, Director of Resort Lodging and Guest Experience. “The agenda for this year’s retreat is a good balance of outdoor activities, lectures and dialogues, and some alone-time for spa treatments and resting.”

Located just one hour southwest of Grand Junction, Gateway Canyons Resort is a premier vacation destination with full amenities, breathtaking scenery, a range of outdoor activities, and the Gateway Colorado Auto Museum. The Resort will provide shuttles from the Grand Junction Regional Airport for the hour long drive to this off-the-beaten-path wonderland.

This particular weekend’s retreat begins with a group walk around the Wildflower Loop, followed by a reception featuring local, Colorado wines. All meals, activities and lodging included with registration, as well as guides and instruction for planned activities.

The planned activities include power hikes, Thai partner yoga, personal training and the opportunity to rappel 75 feet off a red sandstone cliff. Elective spa treatments will also be available.

Breakfasts are served in the Pinto Bean Canteen, a mining tent set up in the shade of old growth cottonwood trees. Lunches will be served inside at the Kiva Café, and Saturday night’s dinner venue is the private loft of the Resort’s fine dining restaurant, the Paradox Grille.

This year’s featured guest will be Dr. Penny Kendall-Reed. She has appeared regularly on television, in magazines and on radio in both Canada and the United States, and she will be sharing strategies for managing stress and making the most of women’s individual resources. Dr. Kendall-Reed earned her first degree in biology from McGill University in Montreal, Canada, and her physician’s degree from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine.

For more information, visit www.gatewaycanyons.com.