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Enlighten
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Mountaintop Utopia
You never thought the top of a mountain would look so good until being perched atop the White Mountains Presidential Range, the home of New Hampshire’s breathtaking Mountain View Grand Resort and Spa. If you can pull your eyes from the spectacular summit vista, you’ll benefit from the wholesome mountain water during a refreshing and energizing hydrotherapy session in a 252-jet Chroma Tub, the only tub of its kind in the U.S. And, for the al fresco at heart, the resort has 400 acres fit for its seasonal playground of activities (from sleigh rides to fishing) for true mountaintop bliss. (866) 484-3843, www.mountainviewgrand.com
—T.G.
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Canada’s Eastern Experience
At Echo Valley Ranch, nature’s healing power invigorates British Columbia’s Cariboo forest and Fraser River. As part of your personalized daily program enjoy horseback riding, hiking, and 4 x 4 birding and fishing excursions with wrangler-naturalists. Two spas will restore your energy: at the Baan Thai enjoy an authentic Thai massage, herbal steam treatment, or facial; or pamper your body with European beauty and bath therapies. The property features cozy log lodges and cabins, a spring-fed indoor swimming pool, and a fitness studio. A truly unique Canadian experience. (800) 253-8831, www.evranch.com
—B.B.
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Earthy Environs
Taos, New Mexico’s El Monte Sagrado was the first U.S. property to integrate The Living Machine, a unique system that recycles the wastewater on property, creating a sustainable model for spas. In recognition of the area’s spiritual roots, the property boasts such unique treatments as sound and vibrational therapy, a spiritual cleansing, and even a treatment that maps your soul’s blueprint (using your birth chart amongst other things). Book one of the ten Global Suites, each featuring a unique ambience, including suites dedicated to China, Marrekech, and Morocco. From the intrinsic healing atmosphere to the property’s concern for the environment, a stay at El Monte Sagrado is sure to enlighten and inspire. (800) 828-8267, www.elmontesagrado.com
—M.B.W.
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Lakeside Illumination
Lake Austin Spa could rest on its laurels that include a tranquil waterside site, a 25,000-square-foot spa, and a spa menu that boasts over 100 body treatments and other therapies. But it doesn’t. Instead, it aims to inspire its guests to explore their inner core by offering an array of themed workshops to compliment its multitude of fitness classes, low-fat gourmet cuisine, and hedonistic pools. These courses, from cooking to self-esteem to art, provide spiritual stimulation that works in conjunction with spa treatments and workouts to pave the way for personal growth. (800) 847-5637, www.lakeaustin.com
—R.H.
Luxuriate
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Destination Detox
Set on a 315-acre nature preserve near Montreal, Spa Eastman makes learning how to be your best part of the pleasure of being there. Chalet charm enhances this self-contained hideaway. The property boasts an abundance of inspirational amenities including exercise studios, an indoor swimming pool, and the “take time for yourself” sundeck. Take charge of your physical and mental well-being with a consult with their on-site naturopath for a personalized energy-booster herbal regimen. In addition, the destination spa offers water therapies, a Watsu pool, nature walks, snowshoe treks, and is located nearby ski slopes. The property consistently is voted one of the best values in Canada. (800) 665-5272, www.spa-eastman.com
—B.B.
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Adult Summer Camp
Rustic cabins adorn the gardens, fields, and woods of Omega’s 195-acre Rhinebeck campus. Although most visitors come for workshops featuring internationally recognized teachers of yoga, meditation, writing, or other mind/body/spirit disciplines, the Rest & Rejuvenation Retreats let guests structure their own days of classes, contemplation, and wellness services ranging from Shamanic counseling to tennis. The cafeteria-style meals—primarily vegetarian—are exceptional. The Omega Center for Sustainable Living, under construction, demonstrates Omega’s “green” commitment; it will include a system of plants, bacteria, algae, snails, and fungi to filtrate wastewater for campus irrigation. (800) 944-1001, www.eomega.org
—B.H.
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Wisconsin Serenity
Tucked behind the carnival atmosphere of Wisconsin Dells between a small canyon and pine forest, Sundara sets the stage for a personal journey with its feng shui design. Curved walls symbolize the flow of life; the red logo corresponds to relationships and romance. Each service in the Chakra series of treatments begins with a Dosha analysis to determine your personal system of balance based on body type and emotions. The Shiro Dhara massage revitalizes your chakras and promotes meditation by gently rubbing oil between the brows to open the third eye for looking within. (888) 735-8181, www.sundaraspa.com
