Get a glow up ahead of the big day at one of these overnight and day spa destinations.

by Amanda Lea

Steal away for a moment of stillness before the festivities with these mini-retreats to help you keep your cool. You and your squad can go off the grid with a mountain escape, ground yourselves with rejuvenating spa treatments or bask in the tranquility of coastal views. Lean into your self-care celebrations and savor the moments with those who will be by your side on the big day.

Prices and availability can vary — be sure to call ahead to ensure the most up-to-date information.

Hotel havens

Serenity awaits. Book a room to make the most of the luxury offerings from local spas, or opt for a day pass and enjoy catered services and poolside vibes.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Charlotte
Uptown
704-547-2244 

The Ritz is a perennial staycation favorite, where you can relax with a 90-minute deep tissue massage or get your glow on with a 60-minute signature facial. Afterward, unwind in the poolside Aqua Lounge, chic Relaxation Lounge or therapeutic Vitality Lounge. Groups can graze on the decadent chocolate bark and enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne. 

Know before you go: For groups of five or more, there is a 60-minute treatment minimum per guest (which includes access to the spa’s amenities). If you book Monday-Thursday, your group will receive 10% off. Complimentary valet parking is available when you book a spa treatment. 

Spa by JW at JW Marriott Charlotte
Uptown
704-499-6651 

In the heart of uptown, the focus at Spa by JW is a “holistic mind-meets-body experience” with a full menu of rejuvenating and restorative spa treatments. You’ll find six treatment rooms, plus a couples’ room and relaxation center. Group bookings for four or more people include a meal and two glasses of champagne per person. The spa is located on the second floor, but be sure to ask about a resort pass so you can venture to the fifth floor for a soak in the heated rooftop pool. 

Know before you go: An appointment is required for all spa services, and group bookings should be made at least a month in advance. The spa is closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

The Spa at Ballantyne
Ballantyne
Appointments: 704-248-4141 | Groups: 704-248-4118 

Walking through the doors of The Spa at Ballantyne feels like entering a peaceful paradise. Request one of the signature Carolina Lavender treatments, which use a custom blend of Carolina-grown lavender oils for massage therapy, body scrubs, body wraps and nail therapy. To book a bridal day-spa experience, contact Lydia Artale, the spa’s group sales manager, who can coordinate the day-of details, including lunch, sweet treats and a welcome bag for the bride-to-be. Artale can also streamline hotel accommodations and restaurant reservations, if you decide to make a night of it.

Know before you go: Due to high demand, the spa recommends booking at least four weeks in advance, especially for groups of seven or more.

Poseidon Spa at Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte
Uptown
704-368-4125 

Spend an afternoon relaxing at one of Charlotte’s newest luxury properties. The highlight here is customization. You and your group will receive personalized massage experiences based on your needs and preferences. After sharing your wellness goals, the team of experts at Poseidon Spa will tailor your treatments to your needs. The penthouse location offers sweeping views of the Queen City, inviting you to forget about the wedding to-dos and make the most of your downtime.

Know before you go: For group bookings, including wedding parties, email poseidonspacharlotte@ismspa.com.

Spa sanctuaries

Whether you need a morning of pampering, an afternoon of self-care or a full day of shared relaxation, these in-town escapes will have you feeling your best.

Palestra Boutique Spa
Midtown
704-342-4600

At this elegant boutique spa, each member of your group can build their own experience by choosing from an array of beauty and wellness treatments. The 75-minute “Palestra Signature Facial” at Palestra Boutique Spa is a popular pick and is complete with a scalp, arm and hand massage.

Know before you go: Appointment times fill up fast (especially for weekends), so plan ahead to best coordinate treatment times for groups of three or more. 

Toccare Day Spa
Myers Park: 704-562-1912 | Dilworth: 704-614-7503 

This airy day spa will have you breathing in serenity and breathing out stress. The magic at Toccare is in the details of this women-run paradise featuring green luxury skincare, wellness, makeup and hair care products. 

Know before you go: The cozy space is best enjoyed in pairs. It’s perfect for a bride-and-bestie treat, mother-daughter de-stress sesh or couple’s escape. 

Toska European Spa
SouthPark
704-332-8500 

The epitome of luxury, this salon and spa is owned by skincare expert Toska Hustad, whose A-list clients have included Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Aniston. Groups will enjoy VIP treatment at the Facial Bar, which seats six. The 30-minute “Red Carpet Ready” facial — an all-in-one treatment to have you feeling your best for a night out — is a popular choice. You can also choose from a menu of body treatments, waxing, tinting and more at Toska European Spa. 

Know before you go: You can bring your own refreshments for your group. Call ahead and let the team know, and they’ll keep your beverages chilled. Plan to book group appointments at the Facial Bar a few weeks out. Weekdays typically offer more availability. 

Urbana
Huntersville and South Charlotte
704-543-1700 

Your group will love sipping complimentary tea or wine (with a treatment) and reveling in relaxation at Urbana’s signature tea lounge. Book a spa party for a minimum of four guests and each guest will receive a 60-minute service plus a party platter with sweet and savory treats. ($108 per person, gratuity included.)

You can also book a couples service and enjoy side-by-side massages in a private suite (or in separate rooms, if you’d prefer). Add the “romance enhancement” package for chocolate-dipped strawberries and truffles to enjoy before your service. (Prices vary.)

Know before you go: Plan to book group packages several months in advance. Weekdays offer more availability. 

Weekend escapes

Step away from the wedding planning, and restore your mind for the big day at one of these nearby destinations. (They also make great rendezvous for those traveling from out of town.) So set that “out of office” message, and embrace the escape.

Sanderling Resort Spa
Duck
252-261-7744 

A little vitamin sea is good for the soul. This coastal resort offers peaceful views of the Currituck Sound and ocean-inspired spa treatments. Book a “Sea Splendor’’ and relax with a custom salt scrub blend of Hatteras sea salt, jojoba oil and honey followed by a detoxifying seaweed wrap. Treatments include access to amenities such as steam rooms and an indoor swimming pool at the Sanderling Resort Spa.

Know before you go: Information about group offers and seasonal packages is available on the resort’s website. 

Omni Grove Park Inn Spa
Asheville
1-800-438-5800 

Go off-grid at this restorative mountain escape. Try the “Mountain View Massage” on the outdoor pagoda with a backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Or indulge in the 80-minute “Mountain Honey Wrap” to experience a massage with regional sourwood honey, warm body butter and a gentle exfoliant. Treatments include access to the spa’s two waterfall pools, a lap pool and tranquil terraces at the Omni Grove Park Inn Spa.

Know before you go: Spa appointments are currently only available to overnight guests (resort guests can also get a spa day pass). Be sure to call ahead. The spa is an electronics-free environment (including e-readers), so bring a book or a few magazines.

The Umstead Hotel and Spa
Cary
919-447-4041 

Consistently ranked among the best spas in the Triangle area, the peaceful woodland setting of the Umstead Spa will transport you from the daily grind. Balance your energy with the 60-minute “Cherry Blossom Body Ritual.” Or build your own massage with a combination of Swedish, aromatherapy, hot stone, deep tissue and therapeutic techniques.

Know before you go: The spa recommends booking at least three weeks in advance. Weekend appointments are reserved for hotel guests.

Westglow Resort and Spa
Blowing Rock
828-295-4463 

The 42-acre estate overlooking Grandfather Mountain has something for everyone: an indoor pool and hot tubs, sauna and steam room, a fireside relaxation lounge, and a separate women’s lounge.

Book a full-day spa escape at Westglow Resort and Spa with your choice of signature treatment, a three-course lunch and access to the amenities for the day. Or make it a weekend getaway and rent the six-bedroom Westglow Mansion, which can accommodate up to 14 people. Enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast every morning during your stay, and access to the spa facilities is included (treatment appointments are additional).

Know before you go: Mansion rental is subject to a minimum three-night stay from June through October, with a two-night minimum November through May. The Mansion must be rented in its entirety. 

The Spa at Pinehurst
Pinehurst
855-235-8507 

Settle in for a day of pampering at this world-renowned resort. Soothe sore muscles at The Spa at Pinehurst with the signature “Pinehurst Massage,” or try the “Healthy Glow Facial,” a regenerating experience for any skin type. The Spa Escape package provides one-night accommodations in one of the resort’s historic hotels, one 50-minute spa treatment, complimentary breakfast, and all-day access to the sauna, eucalyptus steam room, whirlpools and tranquility areas. Later, stroll through the Village of Pinehurst to peruse the shops and grab a bite to eat.

Know before you go: On weekends, the spa is reserved for guests with a scheduled appointment. Monday through Thursday, guests who do not have a treatment scheduled may purchase a Tranquility Pass for $50. SP

Featured Photo: Photograph courtesy of The Spa at Ballantyne

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