A few also offer smoking cessation programs and alternative health services. No matter the approach, eating healthfully, exercising, learning about nutrition and attending cooking classes for a week detoxifies the body and spirit and achieves a positive, if not always life-changing, outcome.

USA

Canyon Ranch Tucson
8600 E Rockcliff Rd.
Tucson, AZ 85750
800-742-9000

Canyon Ranch in Tucson, Ariz., offers a lush and serene desert setting for its guests, who can partake in a great hiking program, healthful food, dozens of daily fitness options, an array of wellness services plus medical testing and consultations with physicians. The Life Enhancement Center (LEC) at the famous wellness resort — a stand-alone facility for up to 40 guests — is an expertly-staffed spa within the spa that offers special programs including brain fitness and weight loss weeks, plus the expertise of health professionals who work with guests to reach ongoing individualized wellness goals. As LEC guests bond at meals, fitness activities, lectures (e.g. how to shop for food) and classes, a support system develops. For an individualized detox program, the Food Development Department crafts a customized menu; for an individualized smoking cessation program, guests are directed to the appropriate lectures, classes and consultations. The all-inclusive cost includes accommodations, three meals plus snacks daily, fitness activities, LEC workshops and group discussions and a fixed allotment towards the vast array of spa, spiritual, aquatic, wellness and educational services.

Golden Door
Escondido, CA 92046
800-424-0777

The original Golden Door in Escondido, California, has room for just 40 guests, who discover a staff that caters to their individual preferences. The serene, Japanese-style spa offers customized programs, allowing guests to focus on fitness, relaxation, life transitions, empowerment, achieving goals, or being balanced in body, mind and spirit, and more. For many, the seven-day program is a life-changing experience. In terms of detox, Dr. Wendy Bazilian, the resident Nutrition Advisor, can create individualized, balanced and safe detox programs. The spa also offers detoxifying herbal wraps that are performed in the bath house. Weekly lectures on a variety of topics by Deborah Szekely, founder of Rancho La Puerta and Golden Door, are the most inspiring, while chef-led cooking classes are very popular, too. Pricing starts at $7,750.

Pritikin Longevity Center + Spa
8755 NW 36th St.
Miami, FL 33178
305-935-7131, 800-327-4914

Longtime spagoers recall when Miami’s Doral Saturnia ranked among the most glamorous spas in the U.S. Built as a luxury retreat on the 650 lush acres of the Doral Golf Resort & Spa, home to the Blue Monster golf course, the spa now houses the Pritikin Longevity Center. Its health and weight loss programs focus on the return to eating clean, fresh foods — roasted lobster, grilled bison and penne pasta — under a fabulous vaulted ceiling. Ten board-certified physicians work with guests in consultation and in state-of-the-art medical assessments; experts offer daily educational programs including cooking classes and smart grocery shopping classes. For physical activity, there are indoor/outdoor pools and ten daily fitness classes plus golf and tennis options. There are spa services and sumptuous master suites, and the entire all-inclusive week starts at $5,900 per person ($8,900 per couple).

Red Mountain Resort
1275 E. Red Mountain Circ.
Ivins, UT 84771
435-673-4905

Red Mountain Resort outside St. George, Utah, is just a two-hour trip but a world from the bustle of Las Vegas. Set facing scenic red rocks in the majestic high desert, the destination spa offers 28-day detox programs such as the “Body in Balance Detox” (starting at $300 per day, per person). This retreat, designed to rid the body of environmental toxins and inflammation, features gluten-free meals, nutrition assessment, lymphatic drainage, acupuncture, Ultraclear smoothies, morning hikes and much, much more. The fitness component attracts active and outdoorsy types (the spa is adjacent to Snow Canyon State Park), as do the amenities such as outdoor pools, bicycles, walking trails, strength and cardio studios and more.

CANADA

Spa Eastman
895, chemin des Diligences
Eastman (Quebec), Canada
800-665-5272

At Spa Eastman, two hours east of Montreal (across the Vermont border), guests find the rural Eastern Townships where they can hike wooded trails, get fit, enjoy pampering pursuits and eat healthy, organic and beautifully-prepared spa cuisine. Since it opened in 1977, Spa Eastman has been committed to fitness, health and a wellness lifestyle for its French and English speaking clientele. Its programs and packages include the seven-day immersion raw food cure and vacation; weight loss retreats; meditation workshops and more. A detoxifying grape cure (grapes for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks!) is also available as are highly personalized cures.

BRAZIL

Gramado, Brazil
+1(866) 471-0014

Kurotel Longevity Center in Gramado, a mountain resort in southern Brazil, is a wellness destination founded by Dr. Luis Carlos Silveira and his wife Neusa about 30 years ago; today, two daughters have joined the family commitment to good health. Kurotel specializes in preventive medicine and has long been considered one of the world’s best weight loss destinations. Guests are drawn for a variety of reasons: for medical assessments, to detox from addiction, for weight loss and sleep enhancement, to simply relax or to recover after cosmetic surgery (available at a nearby clinic). State-of-the art medical tests are available to determine colon and cardiovascular risks and to assess bone density, hormone levels, collagen, body temperature, etc. Integral to the week-long “kur” are three farm-fresh meals and snacks, use of pools and facilities and daily exercises from woodland walks to

gymnastics and the Kneipp water walk. This walk on smooth stones features changing water temperatures (warm to cool) to enhance circulation, kidney function and overall wellness.

PORTUGAL

Longevity Wellness Resort
Lugar do Montinho
8550-232 Monchique, Algarve
Portugal
+351 282 240 100

The eco-friendly Longevity Wellness Resort Monchique opened in 2010 as Portugal’s first integrated preventive medicine and anti-aging spa. Three hours from Lisbon, in a picturesque thermal destination in the Algarve, it features 195 one-bedroom apartments (sleeping up to four) offering views of sky, sea and mountains. In partnership with Dr. Claude Chauchard and La Clinique de Paris, the spa offers state-of-the art detox treatments
such as the seven-day “Longevity Essential Detox.” This program includes a wealth of features like Ozone Therapy, Anti Oxidant Detoxifying Therapy, Detox Ocean Bath, Cellutox Aroma Ocean Wraps and more. Other treatment focal points include stress reduction, weight loss, anti-aging and overall health improvement. Guests enjoy amenities such as Longevity Cuisine by Olivier restaurant, five bars, fitness center, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, and a meditation room and deck.

SPAIN

SHA Wellness Clinic
Verderol 5 El Albir 03581
Alicante, Spain
34-96-681-1199

SHA Wellness Clinic, one of the best medical spas in the world, is a white marble, glass-walled modernist structure that rises like a multi-storied ocean liner above the hilltop where guests delight in vistas of Spain’s Sierra Helada Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Clientele on a minimum week-long detox campaign meet with the doctor who designs individualized macrobiotic meals prepared by head chef Pablo Montoro (formerly with Ferran Adrià) — in fact, the clinic is devoted to the macrobiotic lifestyle. Detox programs include nutritional lectures and macrobiotic cooking classes (in English). Water is both a design and a wellness element with two heated indoor pools, a Dead Sea-like Flotarium and a waterfall. For fitness, there’s only yoga and tai chi and DIY bike rides and walks (one to a scenic lighthouse). There are à la carte spa treatments as well as Botox, laser, acupuncture, cellular regeneration and mesotherapy. Non-stop flights to Valencia and high-speed trains to Alicante make it easy to reach from New York.

ISRAEL

Hotel Spa Mitzpe Hayamim
Mizpe Hayamim Resort
P.O.B. 27
Rosh Pina 12000, Israel
972-4-699-4555

The 37-acre Mitzpe Hayamim health farm overlooks the Sea of Galilee in Northern Israel. You can stroll the estate to discover the barnyard, winery and pesticide- and chemical-free garden, tended by Sami Chazan, one of the owners (his wife, Anita, tends to guests), who prides himself in the fact that the restaurant’s cheese and yogurt come from their own cows, goats and sheep, eggs from their chickens, fruit from their orchard, olive oil from their grove and produce from their garden. Room rates cover two buffet meals daily in the vegetarian restaurant, workshops and workouts and use of facilities: wet and dry sauna, indoor and outdoor whirlpools and a non-chlorinated “indoor” pool with a roof and windows that open in warm weather. The 96-room hotel village boasts studios for artisanal bakers, cheese-makers, soap and candle makers and an art gallery and farm shop. Among 45 à la carte spa services, guests find Chinese, Thai, Indian and Shiatsu massage, medical pedicures and detoxifying beauty treatments.

THAILAND

The Spa Resort Chiang Mai
165 Moo 4 T. Huaysai A. Maerim
Chiang Mai, Thailand
+66(0)53-920-888

The Spa Resort Chiang Mai is situated in a verdant, rural Thai village about an hour from the temples and tailors, orchid farm and paper-making factories in Chiang Mai. The sprawling resort overlooks rice paddies and offers poolside accommodations, daily meditation, yoga, Thai massage, steam room, swimming and biking. Its own twenty-acre organic farm provides produce for Radiance, an excellent vegetarian, vegan and raw food restaurant. Retreats range from detox and yoga to raw food and boot camp-style weight loss escapes. Treatments run the gamut from a “First Time Cleanse” for beginners to the “Candida Cleanse,” a seven-day program designed to strengthen the immune system.

Source: Fox News

New, themed 4, 5 and 7 day spa experiences are detailed and prices given. Special online-only savings are also offered on select treatments. In addition, spa products used at the luxury Mexico all-inclusive resorts are available for purchase.

The $15 million architecturally striking spa at Grand Velas Riviera Maya, a recipient of Virtuoso’s “Best Spa” award, is inspired by the jungle and natural water pools of the Yucatan Peninsula. Almost 40,000-square feet are given to separate men’s and women’s sides of the spa’s Water Journey, each with custom-designed amenities including a Clay Room, a circular glass-tile-lined steam room with a fiber-optic “star light” ceiling, an Ice Room with floor-to-ceiling window, hot-and-cold Experience Showers, and a central infinity pool with powerful massaging faucets throughout and carved-stone chaises with jets set just underneath the surface of the water on which guests recline. The recently remodeled Spa Casa Velas encompasses five treatment
rooms, a hydrotherapy area complete with a chromotherapy-enhanced Jacuzzi, a garden-view fitness center equipped with state-of-the-art exercise equipment, and a beauty salon. Spa Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit features 20 treatment rooms, over 60 treatments, gym and exercise room, spa boutique and beauty salon. The spa’s design includes a palapa-style entrance, furniture from Bali and a large marbled wall with cascading water. All are members of Leading Spas of the World.

Tailored for each guest by the spa concierges, the resorts’ Spa Experiences range from Nature, Mayan, Ayurvedic and Tao sensorial journeys to Purifying, Renewal and Beautifying rituals. Featuring a selection of spa treatments, wraps, hydrotherapy circuits, in-suite bath rituals, gourmet spa cuisine, cooking classes, and personal training, the programs are complemented by meditation, yoga and pilates, bike and kayak tours, beach and garden walks, eco and snorkel tours, and numerous other activity options.

From outdoor spa casitas to interactive treatments and side-by-side deep tissue massages paired with champagne and chocolate covered strawberries, San Diego spas master the mix of romance and relaxation and Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to partake in all the fun.

Discover the top San Diego spas for couple’s treatments

Sè Spa: Take it from a girl who knows her spas, Sè Spa at the Palomar Hotel is one of the sexiest destination spas in San Diego. A variety of Studio Sutra Sojourns take place within an ultra-private suite. The 90-minute Puja Ritual includes a couple’s massage and soaking tub for $300; and the interactive Rasul Clay Therapy is $130. Couples have additional time to spend in the candlelit room with a double head steam shower, soaking tub and daybed.

Blue Marble Spa: San Diego’s premier 100% all natural day spa is a top choice for Valentine’s Day pampering this year. The Hyatt Regency Mission Bay’s signature spa, Blue Marble is offering a new package, Coming Up Roses, which invites couples into a private suite for supreme indulgence. Take the plunge with the Couple’s Water Massage Ritual, a 90-minute signature treatment for two that features the renewing essential oils of rose, sandalwood and chamomile, priced at $300. Add on a bonus for your sweetie, such as the Pomegranate Manicure & Pedicure for $79 or the Moisture Drench Rose Facial for $99. As the grand finale, enjoy a chef’s selection of spa bites and a complimentary glass of wine. These holiday treatments are available February 11-14.

Rock Spa: The Hard Rock Hotel’s petite yet powerful Rock Spa offers a unique experience for couples titled Your Body is a Wonderland. Within a lavish private couple’s suite, begin your romantic treatment with a glass of champagne while you paint your masterpiece of mud on your partner’s body canvas. Once the mud has been applied, enjoy a cascade shower to get clean … or a little dirty, your choice. When you are ready, spa therapists return to the suite and complete the treatment with a relaxing 50-minute massage. Rock Spa also offers a deluxe Rock of Love package for couples. This 4.5 hour spa-cation includes body exfoliations, body wraps, customized massages, personalized facials, scalp massages and elixirtini cocktails served with seasonal berries and organic chocolates.

The Spa at Rancho Bernardo Inn: This luxury resort boasts a 10,000-square-foot lush oasis with a tranquil garden, saline pool, and five private, temperature-controlled casitas. The revamped spa menu offers two ways for couples to play this Valentine’s Day. Spa-goers with a serious sweet tooth should opt for the 80-minute Chocolate Indulgence package, which includes a warming dark chocolate and orange body scrub and wrap, ginger-vanilla massage and cinnamon scalp oil. Or dare to order the 80-minute Forbidden Fruit package for two, which boasts a lemongrass and ylang ylang massage and forbidden rice and ginger foot scrub. Both spa packages are priced at $380 per couple.

Aviara Spa: The Park Hyatt Aviara’s luxurious Couple’s Spa Suite was designed with romance in mind, and boasts such amenities as an intimate lounge area with a marble fireplace and shower for two, an attached treatment room with side-by-side massage tables and a private outdoor patio with a spacious whirlpool Jacuzzi. Within the comfort of your private suite, order off the spa’s “Bespoke” menu, featuring completely customized massage and skin care treatments.

Victoria Rose Spa: Who knew a 114-year-old historic building could house one of the most romantic spas in San Diego? If you’re into Victorian antiques and stained glass showers, this spa is perfect. Victoria Rose Spa offers a variety of treatments designed for couples. The Deluxe Decadence package begins in a private candlelit whirlpool room where chocolate covered strawberries and sparkling spirits await. After your privacy time, the therapists arrive to perform a one hour side-by-side massage with aroma oils. This Deluxe Decadence package is $250 for 2.25 hours.

Source: U-T San Diego

Since the opening of the world’s first official wine spa in the Bordeaux region of France in 1999, high-end spas around the world have followed suit. While the true, trademarked Vinothérapie treatments are only available at Caudalie-affiliated spas like Les Sources de Caudalie in France (the original), wine treatments — considered to firm the skin and slow down the aging process due to wine’s high antioxidant content — are beginning to be incorporated into spa menus around the world.

Adler Thermae Spa Resort

Located in the heart of Tuscany, the Adler Thermae Spa Resort is surrounded by gently rolling hills, terraced vineyards and colorful meadows. Enjoy Tuscan cuisine and relax in the hotel’s spa, which offers massage and exfoliation treatments using organic red grapes. Among these, you will find the Bacchus Ritual (massage and wine bath), the Facial Treatment with Grapes and the anti-ageing Grape Massage.

Santé Winelands

This holistic Wellness Center sits on a 160-acre working wine estate in the Paarl/Franschhoek Valley in South Africa. Simply Spa @ Santé offers true vinothérapie treatments like the Pinotage Vino-Bath Treatment or the VinAqua Vine therapy. Both include an optional “Doctor Fish” therapy, which involves small fish nibbling away at the dead skin on your feet and hands. Don’t worry though, the treatment is safe (for both you and the fishes) and it will leave your skin feeling silky smooth.

Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa

Caudalie offers its Vinothérapie Spa in only a handful of exclusive locations around the world. So it makes sense that its only location in North America exists within New York City’s esteemed Plaza Hotel. In addition to facials, nail care services and massages, the spa offers a number of signature treatments including the Crushed Cabernet Scrub and the Wine Maker’s Massage. The Red Vine Bath is a hydro-massage with red vine extracts that is personalized for each guest. Caudalie also offers a list of ‘rituals’ or treatment packages.

Balgownie Estate Vineyard

Less than an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort & Spa overlooks rolling vineyards on a private estate. Its spa, Natskin Spa Retreat, offers a Vinotherapy Ritual package, which includes a grape seed body exfoliation, red wine body mask, facial treatment and a Vinotherapy back and scalp massage. Duo massages and group bookings are also availablefor those looking to bring along loved ones or friends.

Wine & Spa Resort Loisium Langenlois Hotel

The first Aveda destination Spa in Austria is situated one hour from Vienna inside the cube-shaped, aluminum-clad Loisium Hotel. The spa is located on over 1,000 square meters with twelve treatment rooms. Treatments include the Grape Elixir Body Peel, a warm wine barrel bath with a glass of sparkling wine and their unique Barrique Bath and Body Wrap. The latter consists of a wine skin peel, grape bath in a wine barrel, soft body and foot massage with pure grape seed oil and a warm body wrap.

Patios de Cafayate Hotel & Winespa

This former colonial mansion shares the grounds with El Esteco Winery in the heart of the Calchaquí Valley in Argentina, more than 5,500 feet above sea level. Treatments employing the grape at the wine spa are plentiful. Try the Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Bath; Torrontés Grape Bath; Grape Syrup and Wine Wrap; Massage With Grape Pulp; or Gommage (using grape seeds and salt from the Andean flats). Cap off your session by heading to the relaxation room to soak in panoramic vineyard and mountain views from the warm hydromassage pool.

The Kenwood Inn & Spa

Although The Kenwood Inn & Spa is no longer affiliated with Caudalie Vinothérapie Spas, this quintessential wine country retreat still offers vinotherapy treatments at its Spa at Kenwood. The menu includes the Kenwood Wine Bath, featuring a Jacuzzi soak overlooking the vineyards, and the detoxifying Kenwood Wine Wrap with Riesling and Chardonnay oil, clay and other good-for-you ingredients.

Les Sources de Caudalie

The original Caudalie wine spa sits right in the center of the Château Smith Haut Lafitte vineyards in France’s charming wine country. The spa features thermal springs that are high in minerals, as well as treatments like the Barrel Bath, the Crushed Cabernet Scrub and the Caudalie Grand Facial Treatment.

Vinothérapie SPA Caudalie Marqués de Riscal

This serene wine spa from the innovative vinothérapie experts at Caudalie offers their trademark treatments amidst superb contemporary architecture and a view of the gorgeous Rioja vineyards of Spain. Guests can wade in the heated indoor pool, sweat out stress in the Jacuzzi or fitness center or soak their feet in the pediluvium (foot bath). Notable treatments include hydro-therapies like the Barrel Bath, in which guests soak in an exfoliating grape marc, and the ritualistic Winemaker’s Massage, which activates blood circulation and improves muscle tone. Located in the medieval town of Elciego, in the City of Wine, Vinothérapie Spa Caudalie Marquéz de Riscal is conveniently situated near wine landmarks such as the Museo de la Cultura Vino Dinastía Vivanco, Europe’s largest wine museum, and Marquéz de Riscal’s own winery, which houses the area’s first wine cellar built in 1858.

Wine Spa Peralada

Wine Spa Peralada is a true wine spa with a focus on health-promoting and anti-aging treatments in quaint, medieval surroundings. Products used — such as red grape extract, micronized yeasts and muscatel wine — hail from the local vineyards. Treatments include the Muscatel Grape Caress Body Wrap, the Merlot Red Wine Bath and the Balneo Gran Claustro treatment, which includes a hydromassage with wine, peeling and four-hands massage. After your wine treatment, play a round of golf at the resort’s 18-hole course.

Source: foxnews.com

Day 1 & 2 —Monart Destination Spa, County Wexford

What a way to recharge. Located 130 kilometres south of Dublin, the adult-only Monart is an idyllic haven in a woodland setting. Behind the Georgian heritage manor house, a modern fusion of glass and wood brings the gardens indoors and takes the spa outside. Unexpected pops of colour and design are everywhere, like a fuchsia settee or life-sized metal horse.

The Monart is a true destination spa, which means that no one will look twice if you wear your robe to breakfast. The heart of the spa is the thermal suite that contains various water therapies such as a steam room, indoor jet pool and salt grotto. Outside, a wooden sauna cabin is piping hot and the adjacent icy bucket shower offers a bracing — make that shocking — way to cool down.

Treat yourself: For a true touch of Ireland opt for a treatment with Voya products, an organic line that uses hand-harvested seaweed from Sligo. A Tangle Me Up Body Wrap will help detox and fight cellulite.

Go on, try it: The Celts believed that willow groves were healing places. Walk the Monart’s living willow labyrinth to slow down and shed that hectic city vibe.

Sightsee: You’ll appreciate your deluxe digs even more if you visit the Dunbrody Famine Ship in New Ross, an evocative reconstruction of a 19th-century Quebec-built ship that carried passengers on the gruelling journey to America during Ireland’s potato famine. New this June: a multi-million dollar Irish Emigration History Centre.

The deal: A Spa Break offers two nights B&B, access to thermal suite and fitness classes from $520 per couple. Treatments extra. Free Perk: Flag down a therapist in the thermal suite for a free mini-foot massage. Monart Destination Spa, The Still, Enniscorthy.  Tel: 353 (0) 53 9238999.

Day 3 & 4—The Cliff House Hotel, County Waterford

Built right into the rock, this seductive 39-room Relais & Chateau property is known for its sea views and cuisine (it has the only Michelin-starred restaurant outside of Dublin) but don’t discount the spa. The Well Spa has just three treatment rooms but offers topnotch therapists and big time facilities including an indoor pool and outdoor Jacuzzi.

Treat yourself: For a novel — and romantic — way to soak up the scene, try the spa’s new outdoor side-by-side soaker tubs. Set on a private deck, these baths-with-a-view come in three healing varieties: seaweed, peat or salt.

Sightsee: You don’t need to go far to explore Ardmore’s history. This tidy town was Ireland’s first Christian settlement, stemming back to St Declan who predates even St Patrick. Don’t miss the breathtaking Cliff Walk, which takes you past St Declan’s ancient well, believed to have curative powers, and along Ardmore Bay.

Go on, try it: As the sun sets, take a plunge in the chilly rock pool at the base of the hotel. An experience you won’t forget.

The deal: A Choose & Chill Spa Package offers two nights B&B with one evening meal in the Michelin-star restaurant and one treatment per person from $955 for two. B&B only: from $315 per night. The Cliff House Hotel, Ardmore, County Waterford. Tel: 353 (0) 24 87 800.

Day 5 & 6—Fota Island Resort, County Cork

Keep heading south. Set on a small island in Cork Harbour, Fota is a large resort with a championship golf course. The elegant lobby is manor-house tweedy and the spa has an extensive hydrotherapy area, indoor pool and gym. Bonus: it’s popular with a local clientele who always seem up for a chat.

Treat yourself: Follow a detoxing green tea hydrotherapy bath with a steaming wrap of milk and honey to nourish and moisturize. The key to the wrap’s success is the heated waterbed-like treatment tub that gets you sweating.

Go on, try it: Experience the Emerald Isle at its best. Get a trail map from the concierge and stroll through a lush forest filled with moss-covered trees and blooms as big as leprechaun heads.

Sightsee: The city of Cork is just 20 km away — don’t miss the English Market where Queen Elizabeth II did a recent groundbreaking walkabout.

The deal: A Spa Dinner Package includes two nights B&B, one three-course meal in the Fota Restaurant and a facial or massage per person. From $585 per couple. Fota Island Resort, Cork, Tel: 353 (0) 21 467 3131.

Just the facts

ARRIVING: Air Transat offers affordable flights to Dublin and Shannon from $399 plus $325 taxes and fees. To add a wee bit o’ luxury, an Economy-class Options Plus gives you priority check-in, seat selection, 10 kg excess baggage allowance and onboard perks from $99 one-way. If it’s space you want, Club Class starts at an extra $225 per person. All prices are approximate and subject to change.

ADDING: If you want to add spa time in Dublin, the Mandara Eastern Retreat in the centrally located La Stampa Hotel at 35 Dawson Street has a massage facial combo for $140. Rooms from $190. Don’t miss the sophisticated Café La Seine just steps away.

SAVING: If you’re on a tight budget but still want to spa, consider adding just one or two spa nights onto an Air Transat Go-As-You-Please package that includes seven nights Bed and Breakfast, rental car and flight from $929 plus $326 in taxes and fees. (Prices increase in high season.)

WEB SURFING: For more information on Ireland click here

Source: thestar.com

Sometimes called resort spas, destination spas are a spa first, resort second. Those that emphasize mind-body-spirit renewal will help you decompress and detox while shifting into a comprehensive
shapeup routine.

Top choices for a health-infused retreat include Canyon Ranch in Massachusetts, Spa Eastman in Quebec and the Lodge at Woodloch in Pennsylvania. Each offers a full line of exclusive spa services while providing something unique for guests.

Canyon Ranch, Lenox, Massachusetts

Canyon Ranch is not only one of the major names in luxury destination spas, it’s a serious health and wellness brand. Started 30 years ago in Tucson to provide a healthy vacation retreat, Canyon Ranch now has major facilities in Florida and Massachusetts, plus day spas in Las Vegas and aboard the Queen Mary 2.

Nestled in the Berkshire Mountains — down the road from the Tanglewood summer music festival, which runs through August 29 — the Lenox facility’s signature is its 1897 Bellefontaine Mansion, a replica of Louis XVI’s Petit Trianon.

Completely renovated and surrounded by 120 acres of spacious grounds and gardens, the Mansion provides a stately entry into the Canyon Ranch experience.

That said, be prepared to have a health and wellness cocoon envelop you immediately.

All buildings in the complex are accessible by climate-controlled corridors lined with works from local artists so you need not change out of your plush robe and slippers to visit the 100,000-square-foot spa complex.

State-of-the-art treatment rooms offer a variety of custom facials, but you might try the
“Ageless Oxygen Boost,” their version of the trendy treatment that hydrates the skin by applying oxygen with a pressurized tool. In addition to massages, hydrotherapies, exfoliations, eye treatments and acupuncture, you can customize a fitness program or get a personal health consultation. Canyon Ranch’s Health and Healing Center has seven board-certified physicians and the overall ratio of staff-to-guests is 3 to 1.

Inside the spa you’ll find a large indoor pool, gyms, yoga and Pilates studios, indoor tennis, racquetball, running track and more. Outside is a 50-foot pool, tennis courts, miles of walking, biking and cross country skiing trails, plus canoeing and kayaking.

Each day you have your pick of more than 40 classes to attend, most of them complimentary. These include physical fitness and spiritual with an Eastern bent as in tai chi, qi jong and meditation. There are cooking classes, nutritional seminars, astrology, numerology, and the list goes on and on.

Your visit includes three very healthy gourmet meals a day. Menus are printed with calorie, carb, fiber and fat counts, so anyone who is serious about weight loss will be in heaven.

Canyon Ranch is known for its food and puts the emphasis on healthy without being too scary. There is even a meatball sub and lobster mac and cheese.

Breakfast or lunch in Cafe Tasse, a charming setting where the egg white omelets and multigrain French toast are simply marvelous, is recommended. Note: No alcohol is served here or permitted in the spa and common areas. What you do in your room, however, is up to you.

Rooms have the usual amenities (TV, DVD/CD player, refrigerator, Internet), and in addition to meals, you have full use of the common area spa facilities.

Canyon Ranch is not cheap. There is a three-night stay minimum, and a double room over the weekend starts at $2,630 per person ($390 spa service allowance). Round-trip complimentary transportation is provided from Albany airport or the Albany train station.

The Bottom Line: A world-class health and wellness retreat with a long record of expertise.

Spa Eastman, Eastman, Quebec

Spa Eastman was Canada’s first destination spa and still makes the lists of award-winning locales for the pampered set. Located about an hour’s drive from Montreal, Spa Eastman is a stylish nod to healthy living. Situated on 326 acres of forests, rivers and glades, it is an eco-friendly property with an international flair.

French is the first language at Spa Eastman, but most of the staff also speaks English.

Owner Jocelyna Dubuc became passionate about health and wellness during an extended trip to India in the 1970s. Her passion and commitment pervades Spa Eastman without asking too much of you. The healthy gourmet cuisine is quite good and they keep a nice list of high-quality organic wines free from pesticides so you can enjoy their full therapeutic properties. À votre santé!

The spa treatment menu is equally impressive and features all varieties of massage therapies, body therapies and hydrotherapies, including “Le Grand Bleu.” With this signature treatment you are submerged into a therapeutic bath while being massaged with air and water jets. 50 minutes later you will have all the cares of a jellyfish. Also make time for the “Barborganic Cool Eyes,” a 30-minute treatment for the eye region that noticeably tones sagging skin.

Spa Eastman just spent a considerable amount upgrading the property, including the common areas of the spa. There are outdoor hot tubs, a polar bath, year-round swimming pond and a new relaxation room, or you can visit the indoor pool, gym or hammam (Turkish bath).

A full roster of lifestyle classes are available, so after breakfast you might take the daily guided anti-stress walk along the miles of scenic hiking trails or try some yoga, tai chi, meditation, cardio kickboxing or Pilates.

Spa Eastman offers special cure diets: raw, personalized and grape — yes, that means grapes for all meals. After dinner, be prepared for a quiet evening — there are no televisions or phones in the rooms. There is a small radio, but the static-filled stations are in French so it’s best to bring a good book.

Accommodations are in both the main house (Spa Pavilion) and spread throughout the complex. An overnight stay includes three meals, access to activities and common areas of the spa. There are various grades of rooms, but the better ones (Superior, Spacious) with scenic views and fireplaces are in the Spa Pavilion.

Packages include a two-night “À la Carte” with no spa treatment starting at $318 per person (Economic double room) and a two-night “Relaxation” package with spa treatment starting at $580 per person (Economic double room).

The Bottom Line: A healthy spa retreat with a distinctly foreign flair. Perfect for Francophiles and travelers who want to recharge on their way to Montreal or Quebec City.

The Lodge at Woodloch, Hawley, Pennsylvania

Located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, the Lodge at Woodloch is one of the newer destination spas and is designed to add sizzle to the spa experience.

Though the emphasis is clearly on a healthy retreat, the gourmet cuisine does not scrimp on taste, wine-tasting classes and cocktails are offered along with afternoon tea, and you’ll see more couples lounging here than in many destination spas of this sort.

Designed in a high mountain lodge style, it’s set in a 75-acre woodland that’s open, airy and welcoming. Common areas include stone fireplaces, a well-stocked library and an outdoor firepit.

There’s a private 15-acre lake for kayaking, boating and fishing, a paved nature trail and access to a private 18-hole championship golf course. Guests can also use the facilities at nearby Woodloch Pines Resort, a sister property.

The 40,000-square-foot spa at Woodloch offers separate men’s and women’s areas with fireplaces, steam rooms, saunas, whirlpools and private porches.

The indoor pool complex has a nifty “Aqua Garden” with hydro massage water walls, and you must try the heated outdoor whirlpool (with heated deck) overlooking the surrounding forest — just sublime.

There is also a cardio weight studio and a coed “Whisper Lounge” with a fireplace and wooded porch.

Spa treatments offer an array of facials such as “Caviar,” which uses protein-rich caviar, and massages including “Delaware River Stone,” whose indigenous stones are said to create energy. Signature body treatments include “Awakening the Senses Head to Toe,” a luscious experience of aromatherapy, chromatherapy (involving color) and healing sounds. Couples treatments are also available.

During the day, classes and activities include tai chi, Pilates, aerobics, kickboxing, spinning, meditation, stretching, yoga and fitness boot camp. During the evening, however, expect relative peace and quiet.

Accommodations are plush and include private verandas, TVs with DVD/CD players, a refrigerator and Wi-Fi. All packages provide three meals a day and use of the common area spa facilities.

Weekend rates that include one spa treatment ($120 allowance) can start at $349 per person per night double occupancy and go up to $850 from one-bedroom suites.

The Bottom Line: Approximately 90 miles from New York City, Woodloch is easy to get to and an equally good choice for both girlfriend getaways and couples retreats.

Source: NYDailyNews.com

As with most of the hospitality industry here, rates at Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa and Canyon Ranch Resort dip during the summer as out-of-towners spurn Tucson’s sizzling summer temperatures.

But for the heat-tolerant locals looking for a “staycation,” there are deals to be had, including packages tailored specifically to Tucson and Arizona residents.

One thing to keep in mind: Summer rates at destination spas are much higher than you’ll find if you’re comparing them against staycation deals at other Tucson resorts. But both Miraval and Canyon Ranch are all-inclusive spas, meaning meals, classes and credits for spa services are also included in your rate.

Here are some of the specials going on this summer at Miraval and Canyon Ranch. Prices listed below are minimums and do not include taxes or amenity fees.

Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa

• A midweek getaway package for Arizona residents starts at $355 per person, per night for a deluxe room. The special, which is available for overnight stays Sundays through Wednesdays this summer, includes meals, unlimited access to fitness and health classes, and a $130-per-night resort credit for spa services.

• If you don’t go midweek, the full summer rates start at $425 per person, per room, based on double occupancy beginning May 30 through Aug. 31. Winter rates for the same room can be as much as $625.

• Arizona residents can purchase a day-spa package for $299, which includes lunch, a massage or facial, and full access to spa facilities and fitness classes from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

Canyon Ranch Resort

• Tucson residents are eligible for 25 percent off summer rates plus a $130 resort credit for spa services for a two-night stay. Call ahead for special two-night rates.

• Those discounts come off of the regular summer rates, which start at $2,860 per person, per room, for a four-night package based on double occupancy. Summer rates run June 12 through Sept. 15. Peak season rates for the same package start at $4,070.

• The “Right in the Neighborhood” package is worth 15 percent off summer rates.

Source: Arizona Daily Star

Show mom how much you love her with one of these retreats that made our list of top spas:

One & Only Ocean Club, Paradise Island, Bahamas – This exotic resort and spa is reminiscent of a Caribbean plantation along the white sand beaches of Paradise Island. Its vibrant décor and plush gardens are sure to make anyone feel like Bahamian royalty. Daily yoga on the beach is complimentary to all guests, and other activities are available like tennis and seaside golf. The One & Only Spa offers luxurious treatments including ocean detox bathing rituals, coconut rub and milk wraps, and ocean view massages, all from private open-air villas. 

Ponte Vedra Inn and Club, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida – The beautiful beaches of Florida have their fair share of destination spas and resorts, but Ponte Vedra Inn and Club seems to stick out from the rest. This spa is the largest in North Florida and boasts more than 100 blissful services and treatments from therapy grottos to indulgent espresso wraps. When guests aren’t pampering themselves, they’re horseback riding, taking long bicycle rides and shopping in the charming village of Ponte Vedra Beach.

Inn by the Sea, Cape Elizabeth, Maine – This Cape Elizabeth resort and spa is a seaside oasis aimed at providing the ultimate relaxing getaway. Inn by the Sea offers luxurious spa treatments and amenities coupled with classic New England charm. All spa experiences are inspired by the sea, and designed to heighten your senses and relax your body. When guests aren’t taking beach walks along the harbor or visiting the lighthouse, they are perusing the village shops of Portland.

The American Club, Kohler, Wisconsin – The American Club rests in the small village of Kohler along the Sheboygan River. As one of the Midwest’s most celebrated resorts and spas, the American Club blends sophistication with rural charm. The famous Kohler Waters Spa believes in healing and rejuvenating with the use of minerals and water. Popular spa services include RiverBath, used to re-mineralize the body and skin, and BodyTalk, one of the Kohler’s extraordinary energy therapies. For a perfect couples getaway, consider checking out Kohler’s four championship golf courses.

Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa, Jackson Hole, Wyoming – Tucked away in the majestic mountains of Jackson Hole is the Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa. As a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, The National Elk Refuge and Grand Teton National Park, this lodge prides itself on maintaining a rustic beauty evocative of the natural surroundings. Guests may practice yoga amid the mountain peaks with Teton’s rooftop studio, or restore inner harmony with Solitude Spa’s natural herbs, salts, muds and water treatments. For winter getaways, nearby mountains offer some of the best skiing in the country. Search and compare cheap flights to Jackson Hole.

The next five spa resorts on Cheapflights.com’s list of Top 10 Spa Destinations are west coast retreats and include: Wickaninnish Inn, Tofino, Vancouver Island, British Columbia; Calistoga Ranch, Calistoga, California; Rancho La Puerta, Tecate, Baja California, Mexico; Mii Amo, Sedona, Arizona and Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, California.

Source: Sys-con.com

Vietnam’s based Luxury Travel Company unveils a special spa package entitled “Luxury Spas of Vietnam in 14 days” from South to North Vietnam featuring the creme de la creme of spas destinations in Vietnam.

“This luxury spa of Vietnam tour includes leisurely stays at the best spa resorts – providing ample time for you to focus on the treatments and activities of most interest to you” said David Nguyen, Sales and Marketing Manager of Luxury Travel Company.

This is a new spa vacation for anyone seeking an exotic location, the flexibility to choose your own spa program, and daily private chauffeur and expert guide to introduce saps lovers to the local culture at your own pace.

This tour covers the highlights and popular destinations and the best hotels and resorts for spas in Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang – Hoian – Hue and Hanoi. Travelers relax with a hot stone massage on a private beach at sunset and rejuvenate with hydrotherapy, mud masks, and facials.

“This spa experience is private, depart daily, and can be customized to suit individual interests and schedules. Join the many who have discovered the healing effects of a spa getaway at one of these extraordinary destination spas and spa resorts, handpicked by our experts,” adds David.

 
The Spa Village is the world’s only spa to base its therapies on the healing heritage of the Baba-Nyonya — a unique combination of Chinese and Malay influences.

YTL operates six Spa Villages currently — in Pangkor Laut, Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Tanjong Jara, Malacca and Tembok, Bali. All the spas have their own signature treatments.

YTL vice-president of spa division Chik Lai Ping, said business has been sustaining well despite the global financial turmoil.

“The spa continues to act as an amenity to the guests in the resort. We have a lot of followers that travel to all our YTL hotels and resorts to explore the uniqueness we have created for each space. Some travellers stay in the resort because of its Spa Village,”

Chik told Business Times via email.
 
Chik said time and research are invested far in advance before a spa is developed. She did not elaborate on the investment costs involved.

The first Spa Village was officially launched by the late Luciano Pavarotti in September 2002 at Pangkor Laut Resort in Perak.

“Ever since we opened it, we have won many awards and recognition including Pangkor Laut Resort being named ‘Number One in the World’ by Condé Nast Traveller in 2003,” Chik said.

British newspaper, The Sunday Telegraph placed the spa among the World’s Top 25 Spas.

In 2003, it also won first place in British Conde Nast Traveller’s Awards for Best Overseas Destination Spa, beating venerable places like Les Sources des Caudalie in Bordeaux, France and Clinique La Prairie in Switzerland.

Source: Business Times