Hot Springs Resort & Spa - Into the Blue Ridge

Hot Springs, North Carolina

Photo Courtesy of @hotspringsresort

In the ancient Appalachian Mountains of Western North Carolina lies a sanctuary that has drawn travelers seeking healing and rejuvenation for over two centuries. As you follow the winding mountain roads, catching glimpses of sloping forests and gushing rivers, you arrive at the gates of the legendary Hot Springs Hotel and Spa. Stepping into the resort feels like being transported back in time. Here in the heart of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, you can experience the same therapeutic and beautifying benefits that have attracted generations of visitors since 1778. 

Mineral Baths

Photo Courtesy of @hotspringsresort

The main highlight of this resort is the opportunity to soak in the warm mineral waters, rich in sulfate, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and lithium. Several indoor and outdoor mineral water tubs and pools are maintained at around 100 degrees Fahrenheit. 

You can book private one-hour mineral springs soaks in an open-air cabana overlooking the lush mountain forests. Three sides are open so you can immerse yourself in the warmth of the water while admiring views of wooded hills and catching glimpses of native wildlife like deer. The privacy of the cabana and the tranquility of natural surroundings make it the ultimate place to relax body and mind. The mineral springs are pumped continuously into the tubs with gentle water jets that provide a soothing hydrotherapy experience.

The mineral waters have long been renowned for their therapeutic benefits. The lithium content is believed to have a calming effect. Magnesium helps relax muscles and reduce stress. Sulfates aid in improving skin conditions and reducing inflammation. With regular soaking, the minerals may also help lower blood pressure. The cleanliness and meticulous maintenance of the outdoor tubs and cabanas ensure you can enjoy the springs in a safe and hygienic environment.

Spa

The Hot Springs Hotel and Spa onsite spa provides a vast menu of signature treatments for complete mind and body regeneration. Their specialized therapies integrate the beautifying and healing effects of the local spring waters to provide an exclusive experience.

Start your spa journey with a relaxing soak in a private hot mineral water tub on the spa terrace overlooking the resort's gardens. After enjoying the tranquility of the warm soak, you can choose from an array of massages tailored to your needs. Options include Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, and shiatsu massages, combining various techniques to melt away tension. Skilled therapists customize the pressure and focus areas according to your preferences. The addition of herbal liniments and aromatic oils enhances relaxation.

The spa uses products made from local herbs and plants handpicked from their onsite garden for nurturing facial therapies. Their signature facial includes a deep pore cleansing and a hydrating and brightening mask to rejuvenate your complexion using gentle botanical extracts.

Body treatments involve gently exfoliating with mineral-enriched salts and sugar scrubs to smooth your skin. This is followed by applying therapeutic mud or oils through a relaxing massage. Some signature treatments include:

  • Revitalizing Sugar Scrub with rosemary, mint, and essential oils to gently exfoliate and nourish skin.

  • Herbal Body Wrap is infused with plant extracts and essential oils to deeply hydrate and improve skin texture.

  • Botanical Mud Wrap with minerals from the hot springs to detoxify and cleanse your pores.

A combination of massage and facial treatment provides head-to-toe relaxation for the ultimate renewal. Customized packages are also available if you want to spend a whole day pampering in the spa.

The spa uses natural and organic ingredients to provide an exceptional sensory experience. The therapeutic effects of the treatments will leave your skin radiant and your body and mind in a state of blissful rejuvenation.

Accommodation

Photo Courtesy of @hotspringsresort

Photo Courtesy of @nomad.rdh

In addition to the day spa, Hot Springs Hotel and Spa is a full-service hotel providing luxurious rooms and suites. The main historic hotel building features charming old-world architecture with wrap-around verandahs overlooking the lawns. It has retained its 19th-century ambiance and decor while providing modern amenities for guests.

The property offers a range of room options, from cozy standard rooms to plush one-bedroom suites with separate living areas and private balconies. The suites provide extra space to unwind and have incredible vistas of the surrounding mountains. Most rooms open up to the verandah or have a patio so you can enjoy the fresh mountain air and sounds of nature.

The rooms have premium bedding, coffee makers, mini-fridges, and free WiFi. The bathrooms have spa-like marble finishing and therapeutic bath products. Some rooms have oversized clawfoot bathtubs perfect for a relaxing bubble bath after a long day of exploring the outdoors. Guests can also request rooms with indoor hot tubs on the balcony. With top-notch service and amenities, the lodging ensures a rejuvenating getaway.

Dining at the hotel restaurant and bar provides world-class culinary experiences focused on locally-sourced ingredients. You can also request 24-hour in-room dining service. Onsite recreation includes an outdoor pool surrounded by the forests and a well-equipped fitness studio. The serene setting makes this award-winning historic property one of the most coveted places to stay in North Carolina.

Nearby Activities

Photo Courtesy of @hotspringsresort

In addition to the healing waters and luxurious spa treatments, plenty of recreational activities at and around Hot Springs Hotel and Spa keep you entertained during your stay.

The resort has hiking trails leading from the property into Pisgah National Forest. You can embark on trails ranging from easy nature walks to challenging uphill treks with rewarding views from mountain lookout points. Guided tours are available for groups, or you can explore the trails independently. The concierge can provide trail maps and packed lunches for your hike.

Embark on a thrilling ten-line zipline tour soaring through the treetops with panoramic mountain views. Explore the scenery on horseback with guided trail rides tailored for all levels, from beginners to advanced. Seek adventure whitewater rafting on the raging Nantahala River led by expert guides. 

Cultural experiences are also plentiful, with visits to local wineries and breweries for tours and tastings. The charming nearby towns of Hot Springs and Marshall have main street galleries, antique shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore.

There are endless options for adventurous excursions followed by unwinding back at the hot springs.

Address: 315 Bridge St, Hot Springs, North Carolina 28743

Website: https://www.nchotsprings.com/

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