Inside Asheville’s Subterranean Mountain Spa

Asheville, North Carolina probably isn’t the first place that pops into your head when you’re dreaming about a luxe spa getaway, but it should be. The Spa at the Grove Park Inn is the destination for unwinding in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Designed by architect Robert Le Blond, the 43,000-square-foot subterranean spa is built almost entirely of stone and can be accessed via underground tunnel or by following a series of staircases that pass waterfalls and gardens off the back of the historic hotel. The natural design elements utilized throughout the $52-million spa makes it feel as if you’ve entered a space that has long been a part of the surrounding mountain landscape.

The luxury treatment menu includes everything from a 110-minute facial to a massage in an outdoor pagoda that overlooks the Blue Ridge Mountains. “We wanted to bring in the healing vortex vibe that is part of the mountains,” says Ellen L. McGinnis, the Director of The Spa at the Grove Park Inn. If you’re looking for a unique total-body experience, try the Color and Light Wrap with aura imaging in the spa’s exclusive Therapeutic Wellness Pod. “For years people have traveled here for the healing properties of the mountains. Asheville is a little alternative, so we brought in some of that woo,” she says. The custom-designed pod uses infrared heat, gemstone and vibrational therapy, LED lights, aromatherapy and music to boost your wellness journey. A session in the pod (select from stress free, sunshine, relaxation or rejuvenate) can also be added on to the classic massage.

If your aura isn’t in need of any adjusting, the Spa has a lot to offer when it comes to hydrotherapy. You can experience the healing benefits of that cold mountain water in the contrast pools, take a float in the mineral pools (complete with underwater music), and work out any knots with the help of the waterfall pool. The Spa also has a eucalyptus-infused steam room, inhalation room and dry sauna — all of which work together to make you feel refreshed and renewed.

And don’t be surprised if you spend the entire day here. Most guests hang around before and after treatments, taking advantage of the silent lounge for napping, the mountain views, cozy fireplaces, and green juices from the café. Come for the mountains, but stay for the spa.