Renewing the Weary Spirit: Golden Door Spa

It’s no wonder that the Boulders Resort calls its massage haven the Golden Door Spa—it’s refined and filled with amenities and treatments fit for royalty. The spa—modeled after the original Golden Door in Escondido, Calif., the oldest continually operating spa in the country—is a tranquil oasis in the desert. It draws inspiration from the ancient Honjin inns of Japan, offering the weary and the stressed excellent personal service and soothing therapeutic treatments that help to relax and reenergize. The exterior conforms to the distinct architecture of Boulders, while the inside suggests a Southwestern theme and Native American influences while incorporating feng shui elements and a Zen-like ambience.

Recently, we paid a visit to the Golden Door Spa for a unique treatment: the Thai Massage, described as a “choreographed series of facilitated stretches that combines acupressure and yoga positions to warm the muscles and encourage energy flow.” It was unlike any other massage, but equally—or perhaps even more—enjoyable and effective. Just when you believe you’ve reached the highest point of relaxation and balance, you’re taken even higher. The combination of stretching, breathing, and natural movement allows the body to fully recharge! And with complimentary tea, water, and dried fruit and a turn in the steam room and sauna, the experience was one that absolutely must be repeated. And, the Thai Massage is only one offering out of many.

Outside, you can empty your mind in the aesthetically pleasing labyrinth (path to tranquility), amble through the beautiful garden, and practice meditation under an authentic Tipi guide. Hike on historic trails for a glimpse at Native American ruins or go mountain-biking, golfing, rafting, horseback riding, or hot-air ballooning. Slide into the pool dedicated to Watsu (underwater treatment) or the hydrotherapy tub complete with eighty jets, choose from a tantalizing assortment of massages, or opt for a more active experience in their fitness center, movement studios, or rock wall. A café and circular tea room silence rumbling stomachs, while special treatment rooms and suites provide privacy and serenity for individuals and couples. Sweat the stress away in the steam room; improve flexibility of mind and body in the yoga studio; or take a class on wellness, stress reduction, nutrition, cooking, self-awareness, or self-acceptance. Once you begin to feel your best, the salon hair and skin treatments can help you look your best.

Don’t miss a golden opportunity for some luxurious pampering.

Call (480) 488-9009 or visit TheBoulders.com for additional information, including a detailed list of available treatments.