I made the trek to the Rocky Gap Casino and Resort in Cumberland, Maryland to celebrate a close friend’s milestone birthday. Taking only three guests with her, of which I was one, we were a small party of four and happy to have some time away from reality. Though it was the dead of winter when we made the trip, the resort looked as though it offered much more than a comfortable bed. The large lodge was akin to a well-maintained golf course, and I could see there would be, in the warmer months, space enough for canoes and paddle-boats to coast around the lake. Walking trails also looked very inviting, but being as cold as it was, we opted to do most of our walking indoors.
Accommodations
The room accommodations were tidy and comfortable. We split a room between the four of us to keep costs down, so we’d have more fun-money to spend on the spa and delicious food. The room had two queen beds, a spacious bathroom and all the other typical amenities you find in a hotel – internet, cable, refrigerator, etc. Many people book their room as part of a package, so if you’re interested in golfing, the spa or both, you can book it all together. We did ours separately, though, as it was the easiest way to split the bill and pay for our own spa services.
Since our trip, though, we’ve had offers come through to visit again at special room rates, so keep your eyes open, sign up for their emails and you’ll be sure to catch some discounts.
Spa and Salon
There were four of us who made this special trip to Rocky Gap Resort and Spa, and all four of us got different types of services. I, myself, celebrated my friend’s birthday with a wonderfully relaxing Custom Facial. As the prices were a little higher than what I typically spend for a service, I only did the 25-minute facial. Looking back, though, I think I would have gone for the full thing, as 25 minutes is really not a long time.
I admit that I’m always a tad nervous when being seen without makeup, even though I had no one to impress at the resort. Silly as it may sound, though, it made me slightly apprehensive to get the facial, as I was getting it due to “problem” skin. Having a slight problem with acne and, yet, dry skin, I was nervous to reveal to anyone just what I looked like without the cover-up. I had nothing to fear, of course.
The facial began in a private room, dimly and comfortably lit. The technician started out with some discussion about my skin type, what I currently do to cleanse my skin, and what “issues” I think I have. Based on our discussion, the technician began to apply her expertise to rejuvenate and revive my dull skin into something that was healthy and glowing.
She did a thorough cleansing, exfoliation and applied moisturizer. Always afraid that the moisturizer would lead to more acne, I explained that I didn’t tend to use it all that much. The technician taught me that no matter the skin type, it is important that the skin stay healthy and moisturized. She gave me tips for taking care of my combination skin that would help reduce the acne, even the skin tone, and give me an overall, happier glow.
The facial, for me, was wonderful and very relaxing.
My friends opted for other services like body scrubs and pedicures. One went for the Chocolate Covered Strawberry Pedicure, which, when we go back again, I will be sure to try, as the thought of being pampered while eating chocolate covered strawberries is almost too tempting to bear.
If you do decide to go, they’re always offering some sort of special every month, so be sure to check that out when you’re making your reservations.
Dining
The resort offers several food options, but for our birthday celebration dinner, we chose to go to the Lakeside Restaurant. The meeting space is elegant and overlooks the lake. If you intend on adding drinks to your bill, bring a little extra cash, as they add up quickly to a dinner plate that’s already on the pricier side. The food was delicious, the atmosphere was cozy and we were even able to bring in our gifts for the birthday girl. All in all, it was a great meal and a great location for celebrating life.
Pool
After the spa and after dinner, we wanted to get a little exercise in the indoor pool. The pool was spacious, and as we were there late at night, there was relatively no one else using the space when we entered it. With a whirlpool to warm up in when we got too cold, the pool room was perfect for a little recreation in the winter months.
All in all, I would give the Rocky Gap Casino Resort a Spale Score of 8. I found that the spa was a little pricier than what I typically like to pay for such services. However, the spa staff was so friendly and inviting that I wouldn’t hesitate to go back if someone suggested it. I would, though, have to count on spending just a little bit more money to get a really good service.
Take some time to relax and unwind.
Alicia
Photo by Johnny Chunga on Flickr’s Creative Commons.