Harbin Hot Springs - Middletown, California

Michael Shafer

Absolutely gorgeous. I go here to relax and disconnect from the world. Harbin is such a gem. Literally the only thing I wish they had was EV charging on site. Everything else is amazing. Keep up the great work !

T G

An amazingly serene getaway location. A peaceful place, great for a momentary reprieve from the hustle and bustle. Fantastic for reflection and recharging.
The pools are relaxing, quiet and tranquil. Some are silent only, and there are ones where you can socialize with friends or meet new people.
Grabbing a snack at the cafe was very easy as well as tasty.
The lodging (domes) were extremely clean and comfortable. And the architecture is really out of this world!
I'm really looking forward to coming back. It was a much needed break.
I can't wait to check out the new steam sauna (currently under construction)!
Thanks Harbin!

Nadine Keller

What a delight to finally return to Beloved Harbin Hot Springs!!!! I have not made it back since the terrible fires several years ago. I was scared, I admit because I have enjoyed retreats, trainings and so much more at Harbin for about 30 years. Ah, how wonderful to return. They have done. Fabulous job in rebuilding. I admit it is sad in some ways to have lost of much of the charm and natural beauty etc. and the vibe has changed, drastically… i don’t feel that happy friendly warm vibe much- mostly I mean with the patrons. The staff has been great. Yet, I feel this is the way America has been in general since the pandemic, George Floyd, divisive politics etc…. So…. Had I can’t change that. It’s just the collective field we have fallen into.

Yet, the cottages are wonderful. Good amazing and wonderful work. Thank you for brining Harbin back and I will get back to coming back more and more. Love and grace to Harbin

R Page

i would agree with other reviewers that it is challenging to bring balance to the context of the rebuild to the experience at harbin. i would echo some recent reviews that the experience was a little bumpy. the pools unfortunately did not feel very clean and there was a general disconnect between an relaxing and mindful experience with security circling the pools and watching. i fully understand the need for security, but it could easily feel a bit more discreet rather than feeling a bit paroled. as far as i was aware, everyone was very respectful in the pools and there was no inappropriate behavior other than one innocent kiddo having a little too much fun which is more than understandable!

if there was feedback to give, it would be that small things would make a big difference - the candles in the hot plunge being lit, a few lamps in the dining trailer rather than fluorescent overheads, a little litter pickup in the locker area, a scent to cover the bathroom experience. a few small touches could help with the atmosphere and would go a long way.

a few things that we missed, but might be helpful for other visitors to know:

we had booked a dome but did not realize it was limited to two guests and nothing else was available, and options within a reasonable distance were limited. we ended up cutting the visit short and heading home the same day. make sure you check the details of your booking!

we had missed on the website that towels weren’t available as part of the experience other than for purchase at reception until we had already walked up to the top (it might be helpful to have this mentioned as part of the briefing during check in!). luckily we had a few in the car. i would recommend bringing two per person and a lock for their lockers. it was another walk back to the car when we realized we had a few things we didn’t want to leave exposed.

the food was quite good considering the temporary set up, and was the highlight of the day. thank you to the team for making the effort to make such a great menu.

i am hopeful for the future of this special place and grateful for the teams resilience in the wake of the fire.

Priscilla Loriga

AMAZING relaxation. Always surprises me how much we rely on background noise to get through the day. Everyone was very pleasant. The variable pool temperatures is great, once you get in each one you know which temp is best for you. We camped on the platform next to the creek...slept 9 hours straight!!! Didn't think that was possible. Can't wait for the steam sauna to get completed.

Natalie Nelson

I had to delete and rewrite my review. I was here for a week for a healing dance training. The property is gorgeous, the gardens are special and although the food is expensive it is very fresh and tasty. I think there is a disconnect with the staff and understanding the magic of what Harbin is. I paid thousands of dollars over the course of the week to Harbin and didn't feel the customer service of the staff met my expectations. They almost seemed annoyed at my questions about changing domes. I paid for a dome room stay for 5 days and then was still required to book 2 nights at the next dome because they had a 2 night minimum. They didn't offer for me to put my things anywhere or adjust my check in time at all. The security at the pool was not friendly and berated guests about their cellphone usage, including me. I understand the reasoning but the tone and harshness is not necessary. The programming is nice - dances and sound healing at the pools.

I would recommend those visiting to try and camp and bring your own food/cooking equipment and go into town for meals when you can to make your visit more affordable..There are some great local spots the thai restaurant is amazing!

It was VERY hot as well so be prepared for that. There are signs everywhere telling guests nit to park places or to not use their cell phones. I wish they would equally care about signs for hydrating properly and staying cool.

I probably won't return anytime soon but its worth a trip.

Cora Roberts

I've had a wonderful time at Harbin for many years, but I'm so sad that the caravans have gone!!!!
They were, in my mind, so ideal.
The other overnight options don't have cooktops, and if you want a reasonably priced accommodation you don't even get a mini fridge.
I felt that the privacy and simplicity of the caravans was just absolutely perfect. Everything you need in a nice little space.

What a shame.
I've been celebrating my birthday at Harbin for years, and now I feel it's a stretch to be able to do so.
And if I commit to affording it, I'll not have anywhere to keep my own food- or make coffee - which means eating every meal at the expensive restaurant... Hmmm ...
Feels like it doesn't align with the humble virtues of Harbin.
But! It's a beautiful location, and it's so peaceful in the winters. I love the walk to the lodging, and the kind people you meet along the way..

I just wish it felt a bit more available to everyone.

Emma and Fin

We had a wonderful time! The pools aren't huge, but they're beautiful, as is the whole property.

The staff was all incredibly kind. The service was excellent. The food at the restaurant is a little pricey, and we were skeptical but it was really really good food. We were impressed with the quality of food they cranked out from a small trailer. You could tell the kitchen staff really cares and it made a difference. Definitely worth it.

We stayed in one of the domes. It was fun and quirky. A few notes... The kitchen AND bathroom are shared. We learned that when we got there. It wasn't a big deal but just something to be aware of.

We'll definitely be back!!