If winter gets you down and you can not escape to a warmer climate then consider a few days at a spa. There are several excellent destination spas in New York State.
The Mohonk Mountain House in the Hudson Valley still has the ambiance of the Gilded Age when American aristocrats vacated to rustic but elegant retreats. Many were seasonal and faded away but The Mohonk Mountain House has managed to survive while continuing its high level of service year round. Built in 1869 this grand Victorian resort has a prized location overlooking the Hudson River Valley and has been designated a National Historic Landmark. Cross-country ski past snow-laden trees. Create your own “Currier and Ives” experience ice skating at the Pavilion but return in time to enjoy afternoon tea before retreating to the warmth of the spa.
The spa’s three-level design features wood, local stone and cedar shingles to complement the Mountain House’s existing architectural character, Along with the solarium, stone fireplace, and outdoor heated mineral pool, enjoy the indoor heated swimming pool. The pool building features windowed walls and lofty wooden beams with views of the beautiful property.
Celebrate Native American heritage at Turning Stone’s Skana Spa. It is the only spa in the Northeast that incorporates Native American elements in treating the body and spirit. Steeped in American Indian design, spa treatments include traditional Native American herbs, plants, and flowers. The name “Skana” means “peace” in the Oneida language. Guests will feel at “peace” when they enter the welcome area, which resembles an Oneida longhouse. Native America heritage is apparent throughout the Spa including artwork representing Oneida Bear, Turtle, and Wolf clans.
The Oneida people believe in harmony and balance between man and nature. They placed great importance on their dreams. The Lavender Dreams treatment promotes a tranquility of the mind, body, and spirit that is so relaxing guests soon enter “Dreamland.” In fact, each treatment room features a different Dream Catcher. The treatment begins with a gentle full body scrub followed by a lavender oil massage and an application of warm stones. Relax in the lavender wrap and dream the winter blues away. When not at the spa guests will feel that winter is over at the resort’s indoor tennis and golfing facilities.
If on a cold winter day daydreams turn to relaxing in a French Chateau then head to Mirbeau Inn and Spa in Skaneateles. Inspired by Monet and recreated in the French chateau style, Mirbeau Spa is a great place to defy winter. Many of the treatment rooms feature fireplaces but the ultimate place to thumb your nose at winter is at Mirbeau's Aqua Terrace. This beautiful outdoor oasis offers guests a unique winter experience. Relax in one of the three connected, in-ground whirlpools located at the base of a soothing waterfall that provides individual water massage seats. But the “piece-de-resistance” is the large, open hearth, French country fireplace. Sit by the fireplace, bathed in the warmth of the fire, snug in your terry robe, and, maybe, just maybe, fluffy snowflakes in the air. It will make winter seem glorious.
Once guests enter Mirbeau there is no reason to leave. Dine on French cuisine and French wine at the award-winning Giverny restaurant with a view of the snow-covered Monet-inspired lily pond.
All three places offer special packages that are rejuvenating plus makes any occasion one to remember.