Top 5 Spas in North Carolina

There are so many reasons to visit a spa. The most prominent is that going to a spa can relieve stress and make us feel pampered. It's good for the soul. Also, it's good for our bodies, and our skin in particular. Environmental factors, such as air pollution and sun exposure can often make your largest organ, your skin, break out with acne or cause premature aging. A spa can give your skin, as well as your soul, a chance to rejuvenate.

Whether you want to indulge in a little or a lot, these are five of the best spa experiences in North Carolina.

The Spa at Grove Park Inn

Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa

www.groveparkinn.com

290 Macon Ave.

Asheville, NC 28804

828-252-2711 or 877-772-0747

Spa Packages from $330-$625

Be aware that a 20% additional charge will be added to your fee for the staff.

Spa packages vary; however, this is the most popular spa in North Carolina. Perfect for anytime you really need to indulge in some serious pampering. There's even a package for the mother-to-be. People from all over North Carolina and beyond come just to visit and experience this luxurious spa and resort located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. When you visit the spa at the Grove Park Inn, you won't be disappointed. It's an experience you won't soon forget.

The Umstead Spa

The Umstead Hotel and Spa

www.theumstead.com

100 Woodland Pond

Cary, NC 27513

919-447-4170

Daily rates range from $299-$1879

Cary, North Carolina is known for its nice neighborhoods, fine dining and close proximity to the state's capital of Raleigh. The Umstead Spa is the place to go whether you want a fine dining experience or special honeymoon. Experience a four-course meal, complete with a glass of wine, inside their signature restaurant Herons or overlooking the lake. Or enjoy your wedding night which begins with a long-stemmed rose and ends with breakfast in bed the next day. Truly a luxurious experience, whether it's your wedding night or a special anniversary or 'just because.' More package deals are available. Visit their website and see which deals are available when you're ready to book a date.

Body and Soul Therapy

Christen K. Blethen

www.body-soul-therapy.com

428-A Alamance Rd.

Burlington, NC 27215

336-227-2700

Service prices range from $40-$250

Whether it's a deep tissue massage, acupressure, Swedish massage or reflexology, Body and Soul Therapy will spoil you and compel you to come back for more. This is where I and my daughter had our first massage and now I'm totally hooked. Located a short distance from I-40, you'll find your tension melts away when you book a massage with Licensed Massage Therapist, Christen Blethen. But don't just drop in. Sessions are by appointment only. You can call or book your appointment online.

The Spa at Ballantyne Resort

Ballantyne Resort

www.spaballantyne.com

10000 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy.

Charlotte, NC 28277

704-248-4141

Spa packages range from $168 to $408

Located in Charlotte, home of the Carolina Panthers (if you're an NFL fan), this spa is open to the public as well as guests of Ballantyne Hotel. It boasts 50 spa treatments. Whether you want a facial or a massage, you can enjoy a day of pampering. If you and your friends or significant other prefer more, overnight spa packages are available. This is a great place to concentrate on wellness as they have water aerobics, weights, sauna, whirlpool, cardio, indoor and outdoor pools and more. Although I haven't personally experienced this, the spa has a special package for men called 'Out of the Rough' with which they promise 'no girly stuff' for $228 (or $20 more if lunch is included). For the ladies, I recommend the hot stone therapy which is currently $200 per person. Be aware, there is a 20% service charge.

Westglow Resort & Spa

www.westglow.com

224 Westglow Circle

Blowing Rock, NC 28605

828-295-4463

Day Spa packages range from $195-$395

Includes the use of all spa and resort amenities, including an indoor swimming pool, whirlpools, steam room, saunas, cardio center, weight room, tennis court, fitness classes, fireside relaxation lounge and morning nature hike. Enjoy a gourmet café spa lunch at their poolside café. This is a nice relaxing way to spend a day by yourself or with a friend.

No matter what part of North Carolina you're located in or visiting, there's a luxurious spa nearby. Whether you're located at the mountains or the beach, when you're in North Carolina, be sure to indulge yourself in a little rejuvenation from the inside out. You'll be glad you did.