Avanyu Spa in Vermont
Set on 2,300 acres between the Green and Taconic Mountains, this stately inn was a famous destination throughout the 19th century. In the last several years, Rock Resorts has been lavishing money and attention on the grand old inn andone of its major expansions is a new multi-million dollar, 13,000 square-foot Avanyu Spa. With dramatic views of Mount Equinox, this white wooden building is set behind the hotel, but fits in easily with the grounds.
At one end is a stunning indoor swimming pool, complete with a seahorse sculpture, topiary, and a beautiful ceiling made of wooden beams and steel. Right outside is a patio with deck chairs and a hot tub that looks onto Mount Equinox, which rises 3,800 feet behind the hotel.
At the other end is an unusually cozy spa with Oriental rugs and a blazing stone fireplace in the relaxation room where you wait for your therapist. On the one hand it’s so comfortable, it’s like home. On the other hand, people don’t want to leave, preferring to stay and chat and have tea. This can create a seating shortage!
Maple Sugar Scrub
This Vermont spa reflects an elegant woodland aesthetic, decorated with a palate of greens, mission-style furniture, and a leaf motif that appears in everything from the rugs and wall sconces. The treatments also reflect a sense of place, like the maple sugar scrub ($99). This takes place on a wet table. You’re gently rubbed all over with real maple sugar (which smells wonderful!) to exfoliate the skin. Then you’re rinsed off right where you lay by the massage therapist. After you’re dried off, on goes a maple body cream. This treatment should end with a trip to the pancake house. I couldn't stop smelling my arm!
Another great treatment is the Spirit of Vermont ($150), an eighty-minute massage that uses a mix of Reiki, reflexology and massage to leave you feeling blissfully relaxed.
Parents should note, the spa is only for those 18 and over. Children are allowed in the pool during special hours, so adults can enjoy lap swimming in peace.
The spa’s gym is a little small, but has some nice Cybex machines, and there is a studio for yoga and Pilates with Fitball classes (Fee charged). Pool aerobics, tennis clinics, and fitness treks in the mountains are available at extra charge. Use of moutain bikes is free.
Gleanagles Golf Course in Vermont
The 18-course Gleaneagles Golf Course offers championship golfing. The Equinox is also known for and its British School of Falconry, Archery School, and Off-Road Driving School, which takes palce in a Land Rover Discovery or a Hummer H2.
The Orvis family of fishing fame actually owned the resort from 1853 to 1938, and Orvis is still a major presence in town. Besides the big store just down the road, there is a fly fishing school. In winter there is downhill skiing and snowshoeing.
For dining, the 1769 Marsh Tavern offers classic New England cooking and some spa cuisine selections (though I’m told people tend to stay away from any menu item marked spa cuisine. If they’re eating out, they don’t want to scrimp.) I also had an exceptional meal at Pangaea in North Bennington, about 20 minutes away. For a reservation or more information please call 800-362-4747 or visit their website at www.equinox.rockresorts.com
Special Packages
Vermont Honeymoon/Anniversary Package ~ from $862 for three nights!* Three nights deluxe accommodations (upgrade to Suite if available at check in) * Bouquet of flowers and bottle of champagne * Choice of 50 minute massage or herbal wrap * Complimentary use of the Avanyu fitness facility
Package Pricing:
Regular Season (5/2-9/16) $1,003
Shoulder Season (1/1-3/31 & 10/19-11/26) $903
Value Season (4/1-5/1 & 11/30-12/18) $863
Three night minimum applies.
Rates are per room excluding taxes and gratuities.
Spa Treatments
The Mountain Man's Facial
A deep cleansing and softening facial just for men. This calming, soothing treatment relieves shaving irritation or skin aggravated by exposure to harsh, drying weather conditions and environmental elements. Tension is soothed with facial, neck and shoulder massage. ~ 75 Minutes: $145
