Once someone discovers that I work in the spa industry, I'm flodded with questions and comments filled with envy. Especially after they realize that I have visited all the Destination Spas and many Resort Spas. As you can imagine, "What is your Favorite Spa?", is the question I hear the most.
I can honestly say that I don't have one favorite. Destination Spas are very unique and have a lot to offer. It really depends on my "vacation mood" (what I want at that time). Usually, I'm looking for a spa with a wide variety of fitness activities and warm weather. However while I was pregnant I wanted just the opposite. This is why I usually turn the table on the person asking, and ask them, "What are YOU looking for? Never mind what MY favorite spas are.
Because I know that doesn't satisfy most people, here is a list of my favorite things at each of the Destination Spas. In my opinion, it is what each of them does best!
Birdwing Spa - Outdoor nature setting of 350 acres with abundant wildlife. The spa is on a migratory path for birds so you can see a wide variety of birds, including white pelicans in the warmer months. For one of a kind accommodations, check out the "Barn Suites".
Cal-a-Vie Health Spa - Luxury at its best! 4:1 staff to guest ratio, 2 spa treatments per day and even the fitness rooms have chandeliers and a water feature. I left Cal-a-Vie feeling very pampered!
Canyon Ranch in Lenox - The setting (NE estate) plus the incredible list of offerings in every department (fitness, health services, spa treatments, and food). This is where I had my first Healing Energy session.
Canyon Ranch in Tucson - Again, the incredible list of services. A full medical staff is available for any type of check-up or consultation PLUS a golf pro is available to help work on your swing. That's diversity!
Chiva-Som - It has to be the blend of culture and beautiful ocean setting into the program. During my visit, I met with a monk, participated in morning tai chi on the beach every day, experienced my first acupuncture session and went for a spiritual bike ride.
Coastal Trek - The personalized hiking program and fabulous local cuisine! The program is intimate and the hiking opportunities are endless. That makes for a great week of hiking with your guides. And the owner is a sustainable chef, so the food is a spectacular example of local cuisine.
Copperhood Inn & Spa - Owner participation. This husband and wife duo run the show at Copperhood. Elizabeth leads daily hikes and bike rides and her husband is in the kitchen cooking up local (CSA) cuisine.
Deefield Spa - The word that comes to mind is charm. It has the feeling of a bed and breakfast - versus a stuffy hotel - and yet they have some of the most innovative programs (e.g. Yo-Wei).
Echo Valley Ranch & Spa - The Thai tradition. They have staff from Thailand who perform traditional Thai spa services and treat guests to a Thai feast & entertainment one night during the week. Try the authentic Thai suite for something truly unique and special.
Fitness Ridge - The freindly commraderie and peer pressure of the group and staff. You truly feel like you are part of a weight loss family at Fitness Ridge. And the beautiful scenery in SW Utah can't be beat for outdoor activites.
Golden Door - The traditions that continue today after 50 years, starting with the 7 day women only (most weeks) program.
Green Mountain at Fox Run - The mindful approach that is evident in every aspect of the program. Educational classes are just as important as the fitness classes here and there is a tremendous amount of alumni and staff support. I love that there are several Registed Dietitians involved with the no-diet approach at GMFR.
The Heartland Spa - The midwest country setting. Another spa with a barn - this one is used for the fitness workouts and spa treatments. And it's connected to the main building with an underground tunnel - very nice for the winter months!
The Hills Health Ranch - The Ranch setting, complete with horseback rides on the acres of Queensland adjcent to the property. I went for a ride every day during my stay!
The Kerr House - The TLC! Breakfast in bed, harp music played for dinner, personalized yoga program and numerous spa treatments for 8 guests. That's right only 8 guests at a time, so the program is very specialized to your needs/wants.
Lake Austin Spa Resort - You guessed it, the lakeside setting. In the morning there is a fog/mist that settles in that creates a very special atmosphere. The most memorable moments from my visit all involve the lake - morning yoga on the deck, a canoe/hike/swim adventure and swinging in the hammock by the lake. Ahhhh....
Mountain Trek Fitness Retreat - The hiking adventures. Each day brought something totally different. Day 1, we saw a family of bears. Day 2, had us crossing a river in a (hand) pulley bridge. Day 3, brought us to a spectacular waterfall.
New Life Hiking Spa - Hiking with the owner. Jimmy LeSage went out hiking - as he often does - with us every day! After 20+ years of working in the spa industry he has a lot of insight to offer while working up and down the trails.
The Oaks at Ojai - Dance classes. I'm a bit of a closet dancer, since I never took dance lessons as a little girl. So I take advantage of any chance I get to boogy and call it exercise! The Oaks offers several dance or dance-inspired "exercise" classes, including hip-hop, ballet, and jazz.
Rancho La Puerta - It has to be the 70+ activities. Rancho La Puerta is the original Destination Spa and the one that created the spa fitness schedule. However, it is the Mexican location and ideal year-round weather call my name every winter.
Red Mountain Spa - Snow Canyon is their "backyard"! The canyon offers an amazing place to hike, discover, bike, climb or meditate. I've been there several times and thoroughly enjoyed the outdoor activities during every visit!
Regency House Spa - The vegetarian health program. Even my husband who grew up on meat and potatoes, enjoys going meatless here. Chef John will have you begging for recipes! OK - AND the fantastic beach setting.
Spa Eastman - The French connection. Everyone speaks English and French, but French is the primary language which gives the spa a certain je ne sais quoi. And for those who enjoy wine, dinner offers a nice selection of French wines!
Tennessee Fitness Spa - The camplike feeling. I've often heard Destination Spas likened to camp for adults, but TFS is probably the one most appropriately coined adult camp. It's rustic charm, great program and reasonable price bring people back year after year just like camp!
There you have it - all of my spa favorites. I'd love to hear what your favorite Destination Spa(s) are!
