By L. Brooks Baldwin
the ultimate spa for every vacation
If you could choose the best spa out there, which would you choose? Think of the options! But then again, how could you choose? There are just so many great ones out there. What criteria would you prioritize – location, luxury, value, programs, cuisine?
Now you can see what we were up against in choosing our wish list finalists. It was hard enough to narrow down our categories (to fourteen), but to then have to cull the finest from the fine, well, that was tough. Above all, “range,” was our greatest consideration since we wanted to cover not just the highest profile spas, but the ones that appeal to your average person and average wallet. It was also vital that there be an extensive range of categories, so as to address a wide variety of individual passions and goals. In the end, we somehow managed to winnow a list of close to 100 top contenders down to the final thirty-six. Please read on and see what we consider to be the ultimate dream list of spas and retreats.
Romance
Wickanninish Inn, British Columbia
The stormier the better is the motto at this remote and rugged Vancouver Island outpost of romance. Warm up to one another in the spa’s Cedar Sanctuary bungalow while rhythmic and thunderous waves provide the background music during your Hot Stone Massage for Two. www.wickinn.com; (250) 725-3100
Las Ventanas al Paraiso, Cabo San Lucas, MX
As if sensual spa treatments like Sea & Stars Massage for Two aren’t enough to arouse your most romantic notions, the palatial guest rooms replete with scented candles, luxe linens, and an intimate fireplace will likely send you over the edge. For those seeking a romantic meal, head down to the beach by light of tiki torch for a private dinner served for two at ocean’s edge. www.lasventanas.com; (888) 767-3966
Eco-Friendly
Vista Clara Ranch, Santa Fe, NM
Treading gently upon the earth while maintaining the ancient ways of the land and Native American peoples is the focus of Vista Clara Ranch. Knowing that the spa places a premium on water conservation efforts, use of wind and solar energy, and composting and production of organic gardens and orchards, leaves one all the more at ease when experiencing treatments like the highly renowned Bones of the Earth Hot Stone Massage. www.vistaclara.com; (505) 466-4772
Spa at Sundance, UT
Situated serenely at the base of Mt.Timpanogos, not only is this intimate spa eco-friendly, it is also deeply committed to the indigenous nature of its surroundings. On the “green” side of things, the spa’s construction incorporates many environmentally responsible building products, including low VOC paint, water-saving devices, energy-efficient lighting and heating, wallboard made from sunflower seed hulls, and the use of trestle wood lumber salvaged from the Great Salt Lake. Look to the spa’s enchanting menu for its indigenous influence, whether it be the signature Honey and Oatmeal Body Blanket, the energizing Sage and Sweetgrass Rub, or any of the variety of other tempting offerings. www.sundanceresort.com; (800) 892-1600
El Monte Sagrado, Taos, NM
Built to preserve and sustain the land upon which it resides, El Monte Sagrado incorporates both water conservation and purification methods, and features biolariums, architectural spaces that combine nature with living areas. The Rejuvenation Center offers a delightful and eclectic melange of treatments including spiritual healing, acupuncture, tarot, Astrological and psychic readings in addition to Life-Reading Massages and Back-to-Energy Body Treatments. www.elmontesagrado.com; (800) 828-TAOS
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