Eco-Friendly Spas

Knowing what we now know about global warming, environmental destruction and the proverbial footprints we are leaving on the planet, it’s becoming harder to fully enjoy the finer things in life without just a little guilt. For example, how do you lie on a spa table getting exfoliated, oiled, wrapped and waxed without thinking about where those sweet-smelling products being used came from, or what your surroundings are made of? The treatment that’s supposed to relax you can suddenly make you anxious again.

the crossings austin texas

The pool at The Crossings in Austin, Texas

As we’ve become more eco-conscious, so have our spas. Different spas uphold different ideals, but the overall theory is that the products used are all-natural with very little, if any, artificial ingredients, and are supplied by farms and companies that also employ green policies. The products are sometimes indigenous and their use helps support the local farmers and producers. The spas themselves often use energy-saving initiatives (solar lighting, for example) and use recycled materials for their physical structures.

Here is just a sampling of eco-friendly spas that are committed to sustainable earth policies and to leaving as few of those footprints as possible. The list focuses on U.S. spas and those that offer accommodations as well.

The Crossings
Austin, TX
This wellness resort and retreat offers packages of varying lengths that range from $1,800 for three nights, single, to $3,600 for seven nights, double. The Crossings is currently offering a Girlfriend Getaway package: Book a multi-day package for a group of six or more by June 30 for a stay through August 31 and save 30 percent per person off the package price.

They also have year-round programs. Upcoming programs include Longevity: Awakening Vitality (June 19-22), HeavyWeight Yoga Retreat (July 17-20) and The Gift of Equus: Discover Yourself Through the Eyes of a Horse (September 19–21). Additionally, clients can have some fun with the Dare to Fly for a Day Special, which includes a two-hour flying trapeze class, lunch or dinner and access to all property amenities from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. for $110, plus 20 percent off accommodations. Call 512-334-4637 or 866-533-2318 for spa reservations, or 877-944-3003 for rates. The main number is 512-258-7243. Visit www.thecrossingsaustin.com.

We Care Spa
Desert Hot Springs, CA
This mind, body and spirit retreat offers three ongoing packages, with a choice of eight days/seven nights, six days/five nights and three days/two nights. They cost from $2,417 to $4.094, $2,130 to $3,361 and $744 to $1,708, respectively, depending on accommodations.

Call 800-888-2523 (reservations) or 760-251-2261, or visit www.wecarespa.com.

Aromatherapy Foundation of Maui
Makawao, Hawaii
Accommodations here are separate from spa services. Accommodations cost $175 per night for the Octagon Studio and $225 per night for the Maui Vacation Cottage. Prices are for two people for one to 14 nights; guests get one night free for 15-21 nights, two nights free for 22-27 nights and three nights free for a monthly stay. Spa treatments are provided by Doreen Larisch, who is a licensed massage therapist, certified aromatherapist and has a B.S. in Human Ecology. Call 877-877-6284 or 808-573-8002, or visit www.aromatherapyfoundationofmaui.org.

Dragonfly Ranch Healing Arts Center
Honaunau, Hawaii
Although spa services here are generally separate from accommodations, Dragonfly does offer a Royal Vacation Package for two people, which includes seven nights’ lodging in the Dolphin Room; an introduction to various healing relaxation modalities; Hawaiian Lomilomi Rejuvenation Treatment for each person; unlimited use of the Far-Infrared Sauna; a flower essence consultation; lessons in healthful food preparation; training in the Tibetan Five Sacred Rites; as well as more traditional activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking and a guided ocean tour to view Spinner dolphins. The package costs $1,095; separate accommodations range from $100 to $250 per night, including breakfast. Call 808-328-2159 or e-mail [email protected]. Visit www.dragonflyranch.com.

Mohonk Mountain House
New Paltz, NY
Accommodations here are separate from the spa and range from Traditional Style rooms ($300-$500) to Mountainview Tower Suites ($1,650-$2000), with numerous choices in between. A spa package that they are currently offering is the Hello Baby! “BabyMoon” Package for couples expecting a child. This includes a 50-minute Maternity Massage for Mommy, especially designed for the lower back, legs and feet, and a choice of the 50-minute Eagle Cliff Deep Tissue Massage or Sky Top Revitalizer Facial for Daddy. The couple enjoys the treatments side by side in the Couples’ Treatment Room. For this package, rates begin at $430 per person, per night, based on double occupancy, and include three meals daily, afternoon tea and cookies and most resort activities. For hotel reservations, call 800-772-6646; for the spa, call 877-877-2664 or e-mail [email protected]. Visit www.mohonk.com.

Essence Recovery Centers Inc.
Asheville, NC
Packages here include: 7-Day Smoking Cessation Program starting at $2,790; 7-Day Healthy Weight-Loss Program starting at $2,790; 7-Day Total Essence Renewal Program starting at $3,995; and 28-Day Total Essence Recovery Program starting at $17,800. Packages include accommodations and spa cuisine, as well as varying treatments, such as hypnotherapy, hydrotherapy, yoga, detoxification sessions, acupuncture, Swedish massage, equine-assisted self-realization, sweat lodge ceremonies and more. Call 828-658-8198 or visit www.theessencecenter.com.

ojo caliente mineral springs resort and spa

The Iron Pool at Ojo Caliente resort, New Mexico

Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa
Ojo Caliente, NM
The Ojo Escape at this resort is a four-day rejuvenation package offered year-round, Mondays through Thursdays. It includes three nights in its Historic Hotel and daily treatments that consist of hot-stone massages, facials and scalp treatments, among others. The price for this package is $799 per person in the low season (November-February) and $845 per person in the high season (March-October). Spa treatments must be booked prior to arrival. Ojo Caliente offers seasonal specials; this summer’s special is A Relaxing & Rejuvenating Escape for Two. It includes one night in a Plaza Cottage; two 50-minute custom massages; a 50-minute private outdoor pool session with Kiva fireplace; and unlimited access to all mineral pools, the mud pool, steam and sauna. The cost is $369, based on double occupancy, and is valid June 1-August 31. Call 800-222-9162 (reservations) or 505-583-2233, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.ojocalientesprings.com.