How to Choose the Perfect Northern California Spa Vacation
Northern California is home to a number of excellent spas, and the setting amidst picturesque landscapes and mostly mild weather couldn't be better. Whether you're seeking upscale elegance or Zen funkiness-you'll have plenty of options for a relaxing and invigorating getaway.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
-
-
1
For a Bay Area escape in a wonderful locale, look no further than the Claremont Resort and Spa, a historic property in the Berkeley hills nestled on 22 lush acres. Complete packages are available at the 20,000-square-foot spa, or you can choose from individual treatments that include massages, body wraps, water therapy and acupuncture.
-
2
An unforgettable way to combine the great outdoors with some great indoors is at the Double Eagle Resort, only a few miles from the eastern entrance to Yosemite in June Lake. The lodge-like resort offers microdermabrasion (skin rejuvenation), a number of massages (including "hot stone!") and handsome cabins in addition to their regular rooms.
-
3
If you're headed for wine country, one of the most superb spa lodgings is undoubtedly the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, a pampering oasis of fine accommodations, dining and of course peerless spa facilities. Enhanced by the natural mineral hot springs of the region, the spa is a plethora of treatments and facilities and is perfect for a romantic weekend; options for couples include a couples massage, a "wine and roses" soak and massage, massage lessons, couples yoga and much more.
-
4
The town of Calistoga, another wine country escape, boasts a slew of spas and related activities. Dr. Wilkinson's is known for its mud baths-and many other treatments-and the eclectic lodging choices range from '50s-style motel rooms to a lovely Victorian edifice.
-
5
For an upscale oceanfront oasis, consider the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, with a setting on a high bluff overlooking the mighty Pacific. Among the spa highlights are a candlelit, co-ed Roman mineral bath, 16 different treatment rooms, steam rooms, saunas and a whirlpool Jacuzzi overlooking the sea.
-
6
For a holistic holiday in the far northern climes of the state, try the Sacred Mountain Spa in Mount Shasta. The full-service day spa focuses on the rejuvenation of mind, body and spirit-with everything from reflexology to shiatsu massage to special pedicures to chiropractic work; while it is a day spa, there are several nice lodgings within a few minutes' drive.
-
7
For a serene escape by the Humboldt County coast, Chumayo Spa in Blue Lake offers a variety of massage treatments, sauna and hot tub, and a lone guest room available at reasonable rates. The little hideaway also boasts a "flotation" (sensory deprivation) tank that will truly take you away from it all.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If possible, leave behind your cellphone, laptop and other such devices and immerse yourself in the experience.
Try something new on your next spa escape-a mud bath, special facial or other treatment you've never tried.
Don't overindulge in alcohol before or during hot tubs, saunas and the like, as this can lead to light-headedness and even fainting.
