Destination for Relaxation

Go inside Orlando’s top spas to indulge in some well-deserved pampering

By Brooke Fehr

Luxuriate in the spa-exclusive pool at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes.

Orlando may be considered the land of fantasy and make believe, but it also offers a plethora of ways to escape reality via another path – by visiting its impressive line up of world-class spas.

The City Beautiful is a top destination for travel, as visitors from all parts of the globe come to walk the footsteps of their favorite mouse, wizard, comic book character and more. Excitement seekers quench their need for speed with an endless array of roller coasters and butterflyinducing thrill rides. It’s escapism at its finest, as guests immerse themselves in whole other worlds.

But for the discerning, Orlando is also a destination for another reason: it is home to a fantastic array of spas. Far beyond the shopping center massage spots or cookie-cutter chains, each of these soothing sanctuaries offer guests complete escape and relaxation – if only for the day.

Whether getting away with the girls, rounding out a golf trip with the guys or planning a solo trip to recharge, consider ditching the high-adrenaline attractions in favor of a gentler, quieter Orlando experience: a spa vacation.

When only a complete retreat from the world will do, and The Ritz-Carlton Spa Orlando, Grande Lakes offers just such an antidote. An easy distance from Orlando International Airport, This sanctuary is the epitome of a destination spa experience. The 40,000 square-foot spa, Orlando’s largest, occupies its own building, which sits between The Ritz-Carlton and the JW Marriott. The retreat is surrounded by lush gardens at its entrance, and lake views to the back, adding to the feeling of seclusion.

As you step inside the tranquil setting, the enormity of offerings unfolds before you. Begin your journey to wellness with a trip to the state of the art fitness center, which features a full collection of ARTIS equipment by Technogym. Afterwards, indulge in your choice of spa offerings in one of the 40 treatment rooms, many of which accommodate couples’ therapies. Feeling peckish? The spa’s restaurant, Vitale, offers light, healthy fare to nourish you as you relax. Next, lounge by the 4,000 square-foot salt pool, available for exclusive use of spa guests, or make ample use of the spa’s saunas, steam rooms and other elegant facilities

Regarding therapies and treatments, many of which make use of Florida citrus and local honey, the options are practically endless. Consider experiencing the Grand Citrus Escape, a head to toe treatment that utilizes sweet orange and the resort’s own honey, and includes exfoliation, bath, wrap, scalp treatment and a full body massage. Or choose a signature treatment such as the Eco-Garden Hammock Massage, which combines “zero gravity” and massage technique to send guests straight into zen mode. Gentlemen may take advantage of newly-launched luxury barber services while sipping on artisanal bourbon or craft beer from the property’s Whisper Creek Farm Brewery.

Beyond the spa, round out your visit with plenty of fine dining, golfing and access to Florida’s natural side with eco-tours guided by one of the resort’s very own Florida Master Naturalists.

Alas, ignoring the fact that Orlando is the Theme Park Capital of the World may not be an option, especially when traveling with family. While a spa-only visit to Orlando is certainly possible, it’s hard to pass up the chance to combine relaxation with the fun of world class attractions. If you find yourself wanting a little of both, The Spa at Four Seasons Orlando at the Walt Disney World Resort is the answer. The resort itself is nestled within the luxurious Golden Oak community. The 13,000 square-foot spa, located on the ground floor of the stunning resort, serves as a sanctuary and escape from the high energy and constant stimulation that are the hallmark of the area’s theme parks. The serene environment takes its cue from the Florida Everglades, with a palette of cool earth tones and plenty of natural light.

Eighteen treatment rooms allow skilled staff to work their magic, whether guests are interested in touch therapy (massage), skin therapy, wraps or nail and beauty services. New at the spa, guests can experience the Mindful Matcha Treatment. This 50-minute therapy combines Orlando-based Healing Butterfly Matcha with sea salt and shea butter to produce an exfoliating treatment that helps to reduce inflammation and to aid in cellular regeneration. The results are an immediate improvement to skin’s textureand appearance.

Indulge in The Ritz-Carlton Orlando’s hammock massage.

Beyond a treatment, be sure to schedule extra time relaxation lounges, an Experience Shower, steam rooms and a solarium featuring zero-gravity wave loungers and water views.

Pampering isn’t just for grown ups any more, however. The special Magical Moments for Kids options allow for “Mommy and Me” experiences that turn your tyke into a glamorous princess or shining knight. Or experience spa bliss with the one you love: couples, mother and daughter duos, and others can take advantage of any number of treatments for two in the spa’s couples suites. Or, for the ultimate indulgence, book one of the Four Seasons’ two waterside spa bungalows.

Wherever you find yourself staying during a visit to Orlando, there are a plethora of options to choose from to satisfy the need for serious rejuvenation. Located at the sprawling resort that’s situated just beyond the border of Disney Springs, Senses at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa calls to mind the legendary hot springs of New York State. It’s the perfect spot for the first time spa goer, or a busy vacationer in need of some down time. Also in the attractions area, the Wyndham Grand Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort’s Blue Harmony Spa, adjacent to Walt Disney World, offers relaxation and rejuvenation in the midst of an action-packed Central Florida visit. Or opt for Mokara Spa at the nearby Omni Orlando at Championsgate. On International Drive, the Hyatt Regency Orlando offers a suite of spa services, including their incredible Himalayan Salt Stone Massage, a great escape for the business or leisure traveler on the go.

So, by all means, embrace the respite from reality that Orlando offers. Whether you’re flying high on one of the city’s many thrill rides, or swaying gently in a hammock as you experience zero gravity zen, it’s all here for you.

Relax with couples’ therapy at Disney.

Enjoy downtime at The Ritz Carlton’s spa-exclusive pool.