The Monterey Coast
If redwoods, endless beaches and towering cliffs are your thing, you’ll love the Monterey Coastline. With dramatic views of the Pacific on one side and deep green forests on the other, this region has long been a mecca for nature lovers. From the rolling hills and valleys of the Carmel Valley, to the incredible coastline of Big Sur, the Monterey Coast has a little something for everyone. Besides an abundance of spa options, travelers can enjoy wine tastings, golf, horse back riding, gourmet dining and more. With such a wealth of inspiration available, area spas and resorts are experts at offering treatments that showcase the highlights of this unique locale. Choose your spa style from luxurious resort getaway, a day of relaxation and refuge, or a nature lover’s upscale dream retreat.
Ventana Big Sur
Ventana Big Sur is a haven for nature lovers who are seeking a vacation experience infused with the spirit of Big Sur. Ventana seamlessly integrates the wild beauty of the region with an approach to luxury that is both grounded and indulgent at the same time. The majestic beauty of the redwoods is showcased on one side of the property, featuring numerous hiking trails and opportunities for forest adventures. Tucked away in this redwood oasis, their Big Sur Suites include hammocks for lounging on private decks and in-room soaking tubs. On the ocean side of Ventana, sunset views of the Pacific are the backdrop for the Pacific House Rooms, which feature private hot tubs, skylights, a wood burning fireplace and glass windows that open onto a private patio looking out onto the ocean.
Unique Ventana amenities include their “one of a kind” wine and cheese hour, which not only features a generous selection of wines, cheeses and house made appetizers, but goes above and beyond with the addition of complementary chair massage. Enjoy more relaxation with yoga classes (also complementary), taught by skilled teachers (many who also work at the nearby Esalen), offered in Ventana’s majestic wood paneled library.
The spa at Ventana Big Sur is conveniently located next to their outdoor Japanese soaking baths in a cozy cottage with ocean views. Indulge in their creative menu of spa offerings, which include not only spa favorites like massage and facials, but also more eclectic offerings such as astrology readings and reiki.
One of Ventana’s standout treatments is the “Essence of Big Sur Herbal Massage”. This amazing spa experience incorporates Ventana’s custom made herbal poultices and oils with wild crafted herbs sourced from the region and both Thai and traditional massage. Ventana’s practitioners are some of the best, chosen for their high qualifications and experience they will leave you wanting to come back for more.
Complete the Ventana experience with a meal at their destination Ventana Restaurant. An award winning wine list showcases a menu of seasonal dishes that include locally sourced seafood, produce and meats. Dine in a lodge style atmosphere, surrounded by original art and breathtaking views.
Bernardus Lodge and Spa
This upscale Carmel Valley luxury resort showcases a “rustic-chic ranch estate” aesthetic set on 28 acres of lavender, orchards and vineyards. Bernardus’ recent multi-million dollar upgrade and new owners have created an unforgettable experience for the discerning traveller. Romantic, lush and sensual, the transformed Bernardus is an epicurean’s delight. Your visit begins with valet parking and a complementary glass of local wine at check-in. The Bernardus staff will immediately set you at ease with their exceptional approach to service, which is authentically friendly and welcoming.
When the hour for spa-ing arrives, the renovated Bernardus Spa is the place to be. This sun soaked oasis of wellness features an array of treatments to choose from and a one of a kind environment in which to spa.
The indoor/outdoor aesthetic of this beautiful sanctuary is a feast for the senses, with a private pool and lounge area complete with meditation garden. Wellness offerings include private yoga sessions, guided hikes, personalized treatments and more. You can also steam in the eucalyptus sauna before and after treatment, shop in the carefully curated spa store, or try the full service salon which offers both nail and hair styling services.
Favorite treatments from the menu include their signature 50 minute Bernardus Seasonal Body Indulgence massage, which integrates your choice of an essential oil blend into a Swedish style massage. Many of the Bernardus spa offerings also incorporate botanical ingredients sourced from the property’s vineyards or on-site organic gardens, emphasizing the “garden-to-soul” philosophy of the spa.
Post-spa, dine at the newly opened “garden to table” focused Lucia Restaurant and Bar, which showcases locally sourced foods from the region, including produce from the on-site two acre vegetable gardens. Enjoy the view at the “Chef’s Table” in the kitchen, or a table in the upscale dining room.
After dinner it will be easy to retire to one of Bernardus’ artisan style guestrooms, which feature mosaic tiles, hand knotted rugs, and Mercury glass chandeliers. Upping the cozy/luxurious appeal are limestone fireplaces, feather beds and Frette linens, which will conspire to bring you to a whole new level of comfort. Another amenity that makes Bernardus stand out from the crowd is their complementary in-room pantry, which features an assortment of gourmet snacks and local wines to enjoy while you relax in your room. When it’s finally time to take your leave of Bernardus, you’ll feel pampered and refreshed and will probably be wondering how soon you can return!
Refuge
Enjoy a day of saunas, outdoor soaking pools and massage at Refuge. This local favorite in the Carmel Valley provides an affordable spa experience in a beautiful outdoor environment. Refuge offers their “Refuge Thermal Cycle” of sauna, cold plunge and hot water soaks to stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities. Refuge facilities include a eucalyptus steam room, a dry sauna and multiple outdoor soaking pools that range in temperature from freezing cold, to hot. Three different types of massage are also available including: sports, deep tissue and Swedish. When you book a massage, you’ll receive use of a robe, free admission to Refuge and the option of aromatherapy included in your massage. Take note of their “quiet policy”, which encourages guests to refrain from talking in order to enhance the relaxing retreat nature of the facility.
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