Sometimes, a 60-minute massage just isn’t enough. For those times, you want a spa where you’d enjoy lingering. Hotel spas, for example, pamper with plush robes, free snacks and tea, and relaxation lounges, and they often have fitness centers and pools for your use while there.
Looking for a stay-all-day spa? These are eight great choices:
Salamander Resort & Spa
The newest luxury spa to open in the area, this also is one of our favorites. Arrive early or linger post-treatment to take advantage of the indoor and outdoor pools, hydrotherapy jets, heated stone loungers, and sauna and steam area. We love the wine-inspired Cabernet massage ($195 to $215). Or make it a true escape by spending the night. The Girlfriends Getaway package, for example, starts at $408 a person per day (with a three-night minimum), including a deluxe room; daily breakfast; access to the fitness center, indoor pool, and sauna; three 80-minute spa services; and a $175 resort credit that can be used toward dining or activities. 500 N. Pendleton St., Middleburg; 800-651-0721.
Four Seasons Hotel, Baltimore
Sure, people don’t usually associate Baltimore with pampering. Yet the serene waterfront views, heated loungers, and spacious rooms at this chic haven make it our other favorite spa, along with Salamander. It’s not without Charm City cred: The invigorating Baltimore Beer Treatment combines two local ingredients—Natty Boh and Domino Sugar—in a delectable scrub and a body-and-scalp massage ($165). 200 International Dr., Baltimore; 410-223-1440.
Spa World
You can while away the day—or night—at Asian-style, 24-hour Spa World, with its seven saunas and various pools. An all-access pass costs $40, and the juice bar’s bubble teas and the restaurant’s steamed dumplings are delicious. This isn’t a spa for the modest: Shorts and a T-shirt are provided for the saunas, but the single-sex pool areas are all-nude. Don’t fret—you’ll see all shapes and sizes. 13830 Braddock Rd., Suite A10, Centreville; 703-815-8959.
Four Seasons Hotel, Washington, DC
Take a swim in the hotel’s indoor saltwater pool or relax in the eucalyptus steam room or the sauna before indulging in a calming Amala facial ($155 to $215). Want to stay longer? Book two treatments and get 10 percent off both; book three for a 15-percent discount. 2800 Pennsylvania Ave., NW; 202-944-2022.
Mandarin Oriental
Unwind in the hotel’s Amethyst Steam Room or oversize relaxation lounge before indulging in a signature two- or three-hour Time Ritual ($300 to $495), which lets you craft your own spa experience. Spa guests can also use the large indoor pool and fitness facilities. 1330 Maryland Ave., SW; 202-787-6100.
Willard, Washington, DC
Small but well-appointed, the hotel’s Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa is also a top choice. Try the Stress Melter wrap, scrub, and massage combo ($230). Weather permitting, order a spa lunch on the quiet deck overlooking the hotel courtyard. 1401 Pennsylvania Ave., NW; 202-942-2700.
Pearl Modern Spa
Grab some friends and try the Blue Grotto, a steam room and do-it-yourself mud treatment ($85 and up), which includes soothing colored lights and rain showers. If you’re with your significant other, request one of the couples suites, which include large tubs perfect for post-treatment unwinding. 8171 Maple Lawn Blvd., Suite 100, Fulton, Md.; 301-776-6948.
Lansdowne Resort
At the resort’s Spa Minérale, you can enjoy a sauna or steam and indulge in a hot-stone massage ($150 to $210), which uses heated stones to melt away tension. Afterward, get cozy in the relaxation area, which boasts comfy loungers, tea, and snacks. 44050 Woodridge Pkwy., Leesburg; 703-729-4036.
McLean Robbins (mclean@mcleanrobbins.com) is an Arlington writer and digital strategist.
This article appears in the December 2014 issue of Washingtonian.
