As I get older, the more I appreciate and prioritize self care. In the past year, I’ve made regular massages and facials part of my monthly routine… for the health and anti-aging benefits and how they make me feel. We are lucky to have a variety of spas in Vermont, from resort spas, green spas, and day spas, all unique and special. Here is a round up of my personal favorite spas in Vermont. You’ll also find my recommendations for the best massages in Vermont and best facials in Vermont, all worthy of a visit to prioritize YOU. It’s amazing what an hour (or half day) of self care can do for your mood, stress-level, productivity, and relationships.

The Best Resort Spas in Vermont

The Spa at the Woodstock Inn, Woodstock

The Woodstock Inn is one of my favorite destinations in Vermont for a long-weekend or a special occasion. The 10,000 square-foot, LEED-certified spa is stunning, with accents from Farmhouse Pottery, a eucalyptus steam room and an outside hot tub, sauna, and secluded patio, which is gorgeous in all seasons. The spa can get quite busy on the weekends with only 10 treatment rooms. To make the most of your experience, I would recommend visiting for a weekday treatment, which also lowers the cost of treatments. The Pink Himalayan Sea Salt Massage is outstanding!

The Spa at the Essex Resort, Essex

The Spa at the Essex Resort features a steam room and sauna, along wth a cozy waiting room, complete with a warming fireplace. For your treatment, you’re lead upstairs to the treatment rooms and gender-specific relaxation rooms. My favorite part about the Essex Resort Spa is the unique treatment options. The CBD body scrub was one of the most rejuvenating treatments I’ve had. It was perfect after a long winter to revitalize my skin. Visit during the week for a Vermont-resident discount. Also ensure you sign up for their mailing list to receive 20% discounted coupons on spa services.

The Stoweflake Resort & Spa, Stowe

The Stoweflake Spa offers 30 treatment rooms and over 150 treatment options in their extensive spa and meditation garden. The best part about the Stoweflake Spa is the shared amenities, including the hot tubs, steam room, sauna, and the Aqua Solarium, complete with waterfalls and mineral soaking tubs. Keep an eye out for two-for-one treatment specials and highly discounted services during their yearly sale in November. I’ve been known to head to the Stoweflake just for a day-trip to curl up with a book and soak in the mineral pools.

The Best Massages in Vermont

Rod Cain Massage Therapy, Burlington, Vermont

Specializing in deep-tissue massage, Rod Cain, located in Burlington on the Winooski River and in Essex, offers one of the most-detailed and highly skilled massages I’ve ever received. His understanding of the body and anatomy is unmatched and translates into a wholly restorative and highly customized massage experience.

Brilliant Massage Therapy, Burlington, Vermont

Located in the historic Gideon King building on King Street in downtown Burlington, Jolita and her team at Brilliant Massage Therapy specializes in custom massages for pain management, recovery, injury prevention and relaxation. Additionally, they offer unique techniques, including ashiatsu (using the feet), hot stones, cupping, tui na, graston, and oncology massage, among others.

Mad River Massage, Waitsfield, Vermont

Owner of Mad River Massage, Trish, is an amazing healer. Their location, in the historical 1850 Starch House in Waitsfield along the banks of the Mill Brook, is an idyllic Vermont setting. The old home is quaint and cozy, adding to the comfort you feel when receiving a treatment on site. They also will travel to you and perform massages outside on their property next to the river as well. They specialize in special needs modalities and energetic therapies as well.

Green Mountain Bodywork, Middlebury, Vermont

Owner Hanni Guinn was my introduction to deep-tissue massage. For almost a year, I received weekly massages from Hanni. Also a certified advanced rolfer, Hanni has extensive knowledge of the intricacies of the body. No session is every the same with Hanni, and she encourages participation from her clients for the mind-body connection that results from heightened awareness.

The Best Facials in Vermont

Elizabeth England Studios, Montpelier, Vermont

I met Liz when she worked her magic for my wedding makeup. Leading up to my big day, she encouraged me to try her all-natural, organic skincare products she makes herself. They have transformed my skin! Liz offers custom-tailored, energy-work facials (from oil cleansing, hydrosol mists, and clay masks) in her studio in downtown Montpelier. Book a series of treatments for a discount and the optimal way to encourage skin rejuvenation.

La Bella Derma, Winooski, Vermont

La Bella Derma in Winooski is my go-to stop for regular facials (hello extractions!) and facial waxing. Chelsea and her team are such perfectionists and know their stuff when it comes to treating a variety of skin conditions. Your initial skin consultation is complimentary, and they’ll put together a plan to ensure your skin glows. Don’t miss the teeth whitening machine while you’re there as well!

Element Salon, Hinesburg, Vermont

I have been a huge fan of Element Salon in Hinesburg since they opened. Michelle, the owner, is skilled at facials, massages, nails, and waxing. Michelle’s facials feature Pure Fiji products, which are “the optimal blend of exotic drift nut oils, powerful plant actives and the latest in dermatological revelations.” All facials include a mini-massage as well. If you’re looking for an exceptionally clean and well-cared for space for a pedicure and manicure, Element Salon offers the best local nail salon experience as well. (Ask Michelle for her Vietnamese coffee!)

The Best Unique Treatments in Vermont

The Salt Cave at Purple Sage, Essex, Vermont

One of only three salt caves in Vermont, Purple Sage features a Himalayan pink sea salt cave. The 45-minute experience features guided meditation in the beginning and then sounds of the ocean while you reap the benefits of salt therapy. The benefit? The restorative and health benefits equate to two days at the beach!

Ion Cleanse Detox Foot Bath, Jivana Spa, Burlington, Vermont

Burlington’s only green and eco-friendly spa, Jivana Spa on Church Street offers facials, massages, and a variety of awesome organic products. My favorite is the O&M brand! What’s the coolest though is the ion cleanse foot bath. This treatment removes toxins and heavy metals from your body through your feet, leaving you feeling more restored and energetic.

What is your favorite spa or massage therapist in Vermont? Share in the comments below to keep the conversation going!