Looking for a Destination Spa in the U.S.?

Looking for a destination spa in the US? Destination spas are luxury spa vacations, the ultimate in pampering - with a little hard work thrown in! But the results can be remarkable!

Destination spas focus on fitness and weight loss, overall wellness, or, in some cases, spiritual renewal.

They are generally a luxury destination spa with full services and comfortable surroundings.

Here are some of the best destination spas in the US:

• The Lodge at Woodloch - This luxury destination spa is located in Pennsylvania's lake region, about 2 hours from New York City.

The spa integrates physical, mental, and spiritual renewal with a full schedule of daily activities. A Spa Concierge assists you in planning your visit and you can be as active or relaxed as you like. Some of the more unusual activities include cooking demonstrations, art classes, and storytelling around the fire circle.

• The Golden Door - The oldest destination spa in the US, The Golden Door set the standard for luxury destination spa vacations.

The original spa, in Escondido, California (north of San Diego), is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2010. The spa experience is limited to 40 guests, and the weeklong program focuses on personalized health and rejuvenation. This spa has been voted the best fitness program and the best spa for going solo - great for truly "getting away from it all!"

The Golden Door also has facilities in Colorado and the Caribbean.

• Canyon Ranch - Another very well-known destination spa in the US, Canyon Ranch focuses on fitness, nutrition, and a healthy lifestyle.

A very good choice for a weight loss spa or fitness spa vacation, Canyon Ranch facilities are larger than the Golden Door, but no less personalized. Their programs are more flexible in length (from 4 to 10 nights), and upon arrival you'll meet with a program director to design a fitness program just for you.

The orginial Canyon Ranch is located in Tucson, with additional locations in Lenox, Massachusetts and Miami.

• Cal-a-Vie - Another option for a California spa vacation, Cal-a-Vie is an intimate resort with 24 "European villas" nestled in the hills north of San Diego.

You'll start your week-long program meeting with a wellness consultant, who will customize your program to your needs - which, according to their literature, "you can stick to or veer from as much as you like". They promote a stress-free environment, so you don't have to worry about meeting every goal!

Mornings are designed to be active, with relaxing spa treatments and meditation in the afternoon.

• Green Valley Spa - Surrounded by the stunning red rocks of Utah, the Green Valley Spa is a luxury fitness spa, with plenty of active pursuits to accompany their massage and skin therapies.

They also specialize in overall health, with medical professionals on staff to assist in determining your health and fitness needs.

The resort is very relaxed and casual, with an emphasis on outdoor activities, like hiking, along with Pilates and other fitness activities.

• Aspira Spa at the Osthoff Resort - According to their literature, Aspira means 'infused with spirit' and is located on the shores of a lake considered sacred by local Native Americans.

Elkhart Lake in Wisconsin, about an hour north of Milwaukee, is the home of the Osthoff Resort and Aspira Spa. The resort takes full advantage of the lake for water activities, and the spa incorporates Native American rituals with Asian philosophies for a unique spiritual experience.

The spa offers a full range of services from massage to yoga classes. Their "Spa Suite" allows couples or a small group (sisters, friends) to have a private spa experience. Accommodations range from a one-bedroom guest room to a 3-bedroom suite - a great place for a girlfriend getaway!

Where Would You Like to Go Next?

• Destination Spas in the Caribbean

• Destination Spas in Europe

• Destination Spas in the Pacific and Asia

• Return to Destination Spas

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