Start Your Spring Off With Yoga, Hiking, Pottery and Boutique Shopping in LA’s Mountain Hideaway Town
Start the spring season off on the right foot with a restorative trip into Topanga Canyon—LA’s mountain hideaway that’s sure to bolster your spirit. With its hillside wildflowers and long counter-culture tradition, Topanga is absolutely worth the wellness hype. This rural community offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Check out these Topanga musts and have yourself an Eat, Pray, Love moment right here in LA. Better yet—make it your new weekend tradition.
First Things First
The homegrown, backroad feeling that gives Topanga its charm is baked right into the breads at The Canyon Bakery. This longtime staple is only open on Fridays and Sundays, so plan accordingly. You have to order ahead, and it’s first come, first served, but it’s totally worth the extra planning. The bread is made with local whole grains, which are milled on site and fermented to perfection. Nurture your body with these delightful probiotic baked goods, and you’ll be on your way to having a great day.
Move Your Body
Take a moment to center yourself—breathe in and set your intention with the team at Ethereal Yoga. They’re experts at nourishing bodies and souls and will set you well on your way to having a weekend of peaceful exploration. Pause your day with a Vinyasa flow class, a heated power flow or a breathwork meditation session. Be sure to check Ethereal’s website and Instagram before you go, as you might stumble upon a special experience on the calendar, such as the recent sound bath and acupuncture experience.
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Break a Sweat
Tuna Canyon Trail provides some of the most heavenly ocean views in Los Angeles. The hike is a moderate out-and-back that takes a couple of hours but may take longer when trails are busy. Don’t forget—busy trails make for new friends. On this hike, the salty air and spring greenery pair well with a Topo Chico and some juicy fresh mango. Pro tip: hit the trail early because you’ll need more time than you think to take in all the scenery.
Grab a Slice
Endless Pizza in Topanga Canyon is an unassuming pizzeria nestled in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains. The restaurant offers a variety of classic Italian-style pizzas, with handmade dough, creative toppings and made-from-scratch sauces. You best believe the dishes are full of color! With rustic wood furniture, exposed brick walls and warm lighting, this pizza shop delivers Topanga vibes. The restaurant also features a selection of unique craft beers, wines and other beverages to complement the pizza.
Indulge in Good-for-You Cuisine
There is nothing more restorative than a little TLC. Topanga Living Cafe takes this idea seriously, beckoning local soul searchers to unwind, grab a smoothie, browse the local market and pick out a little gift for your loved ones back home. For a springtime delicacy, indulge in the Greek yogurt bowl (blackberries, peaches, pepita brittle, mint and honey) and a hot cup of hibiscus tea. Sometimes one treat isn’t enough, so on your way out, grab a Fernwood smoothie and a pistachio bun to go.
Create With Clay at Kirsty Iredale Pottery
Our souls long to create; regardless of the creative outlet, the act of making something is revitalizing. With classes for all experience levels and age groups, a Kirsty Iredale pottery class has a welcoming sense of community ideal for the act of creation. Group classes, private lessons and workshops provide the flexibility needed for learning a new craft. Whether you try it once or find your new passion, you’ll walk away with dirty hands, a new piece of art and a full heart.
Do Some Intentional Shopping
Don’t leave Topanga without setting yourself up for lasting internal wellness. There are a few must-stop shops and boutiques to check out: be sure to drop in at The Well Lived Woman, a community gathering stocked with all your stationery and apothecary needs. Next, Artemis Studio is a homeware and lifestyle shop with a collection of curated goods that will turn any home into a sanctuary. Finally, let your style reflect your spirit with a new outfit from Moona Star. Walk away with an elegant boho look worthy of the canyon.
Take in the Views
Cafe on 27 encapsulates the essence of Topanga Canyon. The wooded mountain views provide an opportune spot to reflect on your full Topanga experience. The caprese toast is divinely fresh, and the mint cucumber lemonade will feel like spring in a glass. The cafe boasts plenty of room to take a few photos to share your inner peace with the world. Indulge in the flourless chocolate cake or the baklava before hitting the highway and blasting “Canyon Moon” by Harry Styles all the way home.
