Written by Sydney E. Lake for the 2020 Virginia Travel Guide
This story is part of the 2020 Virginia is for Lovers Travel Guide. Order your FREE COPY today!
Virginia has long been acclaimed for its history and outdoor beauty. But tucked among these iconic sites and sweeping vistas is a lesser-known wellness scene where visitors and Virginians alike can unplug and unwind. Follow this guide for your ideal getaway to relax, re-center, and reconnect.
HISTORIC GETAWAY—HOT SPRINGS
Nestled in the northwest region of the state is Hot Springs, where The Homestead Resort can be found. Fit for the ultimate luxury vacation, this historic resort has hosted 23 United States presidents, and provides guests with enchanting views of Virginia landscape and a full-service spa. The spa offerings are like none other, as services are completed using the mineral-enriched water from the surrounding Hot Springs area. Following a salt stone therapy massage, guests can relax in natural-body-temperature, mineral-rich water in the Octagon pool, which dates back to the 19th century, all while taking in the resort’s breathtaking views. For an indoor luxury experience, spa guests may visit the nascent Aqua Thermal Suite, a collection of European-style healing aquatic environments which combines “heat and cool therapy” for relaxation. Lounge, soak, let go.
SOUTHERN CHARM—SOUTH BOSTON
Just near the southern border of the state sits Berry Hill Resort, a former antebellum estate turned premiere resort venue. Only a short stretch from Richmond and Lynchburg, Berry Hill is the perfect place to escape for European-quality spa services such as massages, body treatments, facials and more – including monthly specials such as detoxifying avocado body wraps and Swedish massages. There’s even a curated gentlemen’s spa menu! While in South Boston, visitors can imbibe some of Virginia’s fine wine on the Southern Virginia Wine Trail, or expend some energy either hiking or biking the surrounding trails.
TREETOP ESCAPE—BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS
For the ultimate stargazing experience, look no further than Primland, the Blue Ridge Mountain resort where an unmatched treetop experience can be found. Condé Nast Traveler ranked this hidden gem on its Gold List of the "Top 100 Resorts and Hotels in the World," so this elevated experience – literally and figuratively – takes the idea of glamping to a lavish next level. Guests may choose from luxury treehouses or lodge accommodations perched on the 12,000-acre land. Nature walks, massages and horseback riding are popular daytime activities at Primland, while stargazing and peaceful sleeping are just two of the calming nighttime expectations. This observatory experience is like no other, and is the perfect way to allow your own thoughts to melt away before a long night of sleep. Primland’s spa offers exclusive treatments inspired by Native American healing rituals and European spa techniques, utilizing only the finest organic products and essential oils.
RECHARGE AND RECONNECT—APPALACHIAN MOUNTAINS
Escape from the hustle and bustle of dayto-day life in the Appalachian Mountains, just west of Roanoke in southwest Virginia. Here, the Eupepsia Wellness Center is home to an array of self-care plans, providing the ideal atmosphere to truly relax. Of their many health retreats, Eupepsia offers wellness retreats designed for guests to detox, rejuvenate and renew. Strengthen your mind-body connection through yoga and meditation classes, or educate yourself about wellness at one of the many workshops hosted at the vast 256-acre resort. Fitness may also be a focus of your stay, where you can exercise inside with a personal trainer, or go hiking or whitewater rafting in the surrounding Appalachian Mountains. Complete your stay with hydrotherapy or hot stone therapy at the wellness spa.
COASTAL ELEGANCE—VIRGINIA BEACH
Coastal Virginia is a breathtaking year-round destination. Enjoy a beach holiday with the changing of seasons at The Cavalier, located on the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Kick off your relaxing getaway at the hotel distillery, Tarnished Truth, with samples of their signature bourbon, rye whiskey and AVA Vodka. Or soak in your spirits with the Bourbon Tea nutria-Body Wrap at the spa, designed to leave skin soft and moisturized. For a more secluded beach experience, venture to nearby Sandbridge. If waking up early doesn’t cramp your vacation style, it’s well worth the early alarm to view the sunrise over the pristine sand dunes.
Want to learn more about all there is to do in Virginia? Make 2020 your year to discover why Virginia is for Lovers; order your FREE Virginia Travel Guide today!