I’ve been traveling around America for the past three weeks on a project working to promote US cities to international tourists. Needless to say, it’s been three weeks of busy filming and LONG days! I haven’t had much of a chance to enjoy the spa scene, but I did manage to squeeze in some time to check out some things out in Vermont!
If you’ve never been to this New England state, I suggest you put it on your bucket list. It is one of the most most beautiful places I have visited in the USA. Seriously.
The spa scene in Vermont is something special since it caters to active visitors. Vermont is one of the fittest states in the nation, so it’s no surprise they have a unique take on wellness and spas, used as much for muscle therapy as for relaxation.
Stowe Mountain Resort
I had the opportunity to visit Stowe Mountain Lodge and tour their spa facilities (while I didn’t have time to enjoy a treatment this time around, you better bet I will be returning as soon as I can to experience this “four seasons” mountain resort). The property is active all year round with things to do no matter what season you come. Although well known for it’s skiing in the winter, the other seasonal activities are just as rewarding, including breath-taking fall foliage, hiking trails, and great views.
The spa, also open year round, is a huge 21,000 square foot facility that embraces all the natural luxuries New England has to offer. Staying true to their brand, the Spa at Stowe Mountain Resort incorporates all four seasons into it’s spa menu. It features a huge fireplace right in the center — just perfect for relaxing after a day of skiing the Green Mountains. The really neat thing about this spa (and others in ski resort areas) is the use of the outdoor pool in the winter. While it’s freezing outside, the pool is nice and toasty — that contrast is absolutely incredible — although I guess we’ll have to wait until winter to experience that little luxury.
Fitness in Vermont
One of the best things about Vermont for me is the fact that Burlington and the surrounding cities is just crazy about fitness. There is so much to do no matter what the season and locals, as well as visitors, embrace it completely. Vermont definitely lives up to it’s title of number 2 fittest state in the nation. The reason fitness and activities are so important to this post is because it dictates the spa and wellness scene here as well. Part of being fit is making sure your body is taken care of in order for it to stand up against all the rigorous activity. Wellness goes hand-in-hand with fitness and it shows in the spa culture here.
Hotel Vermont
I had the chance to stay at Hotel Vermont right in the heart of charming Burlington while working with the state. The hotel is completely eco-friendly and works to incorporate the active lifestyle that makes Vermont famous. The hotel has a weekly list of daily activities in each of the guests rooms, including complimentary yoga, paddle boarding, kayaking, and bike rentals. They also offer massages every day during specific times for guests at a very reasonable rate. I had an opportunity to test out the bike path with a bike I rented from the hotel. After getting caught in the rain, I desperately needed a massage. I booked a couple hours in advance and it was all set.
The hotel partners with a local center called Blissful Healing Massage located right in Burlington. They use certified massage therapists that specialize in deep tissue and swedish massages. According to the hotel, they make sure to marry the body with the mind; meaning they want to bring balance to the mind, body, and spirit, while also releasing tension caused by muscle exertion.
Massage at Hotel Vermont
My massage therapist with a man, which I had never had before, but had no problems with. The hotel informed me he was the massage therapist on duty and did I mind have a male masseuse. I assured them it would be alright, and we were off…
The first thing I noticed about this particular massage, which is why I touched on fitness so much in my posts is that it was very different than any massage I have ever had (and writing a spa blog, I have had many). The masseuse was extremely meticulous and his knowledge of the muscle groups and ways to manipulate them to provide some much needed relief was top notch. I felt like he was trying to understand my body and the stress I had been putting on it throughout my various activities before diving in. By this point, I can usually dictate exactly how a full-body massage will go. Not saying they are not beneficial and useful, but many therapists use very similar techniques and it becomes quite routine.
This time, however, was different. I could not predict his next move and it was a welcome surprise. He moved around my back muscles with precision and expertise, really working on the ones that needed it most. The hotel does not specialize in spa services and doesn’t even have a spa, which is what makes this massage offering so special. This is a therapeutic massage, meant to combat the stresses put on our bodies through over exertion and it is a welcome addition to a hotel and city that promotes fitness and wellness across the board.
Happy spa hopping!…
Images courtesy of Hotel Vermont, Stowe Mountain Lodge