We are fortunate to have so many world-class health and wellness centers, as well as elegant inn-and-spa destinations. Those of us who live here don’t have to travel very far to enjoy all the services these facilities offer, and many of them want your business. With their special resident or day packages, they make it easy for you to enjoy your own day (or evening) of bliss.

Kripalu, Stockbridge, MA

It’s got arguably the best view in the Berkshires, but that’s not the only reason Kripalu has attracted aspiring yogis and people from all over the world looking for R&R for nearly 50 years. More recently, Kripalu has increased its outreach to locals and offers a variety of opportunities to take advantage of its classes, spa services, meals and peaceful grounds.

“We really want to help local attendees to experience our signature services,” said Christopher Collura, Kripalu’s Healing Arts (aka spa services) director. To that end, you can design your own package and receive a 10% discount, with the smallest pairing being two services, a massage and a Kripalu energy balancing ($175.50). Add an ayurvedic or Dr. Hauschka (products) facial ($283.50).

Photo courtesy of Kripalu

You don’t have to be a registered guest to take advantage of Healing Arts services and, once you’re there, there’s no cover charge for access. On the day of your services, you’re welcome to use the gym, sauna and showers.

For Berkshires residents — and those who live within 30 miles of Kripalu — there are day passes for $99 ($55 on Wednesdays), which allow you to participate in yoga, healthy eating, Healing Arts treatments and other services at greatly discounted prices (plus extra discounts and monthly guided meditation and sound healing community events on Wednesdays). On most weeknight evenings, Kripalu offers locals a $30 yoga and dinner special.

Note: Kripalu has just announced that it will close for six weeks, effective March 13, because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Canyon Ranch, Lenox, MA

Canyon Ranch is a recognized leader in healthy living and luxurious destination spa vacations. Even if you live close by, it’s still a destination: R&R begins in the elegant setting of the Bellefontaine mansion, built in 1897. The Spa Day package ($295) entitles you to select from a menu of nearly 40 classes every day, from cardio kickboxing to yoga, plus use of the 10,000-square-foot spa and fitness complex, saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools and more.

Photo courtesy of Canyon Ranch

Berkshires residents (and those who live nearby) might consider Canyon Ranch’s Transformation Tuesdays, which begin at 3:30 p.m. and end at 10 p.m. During that time, guests have access to all classes and lectures, as well as to the spa and fitness facilities; a healthy gourmet dinner is included, too. Consider it a seven-hour retreat at an incredibly reasonable rate: $65. (Spa services are a la carte, based on availability.) Added bonus: Canyon Ranch programs wellness presentations on certain Tuesday evenings. On March 17, Dr. Cory Lenherr will deliver “Recharge! Understanding and Overcoming Fatigue,” while on May 19, there will be an evening trail walk with the Canyon Ranch Outdoor Sports team.

Mirbeau Inn & Spa, Rhinebeck, NY

The Mirbeau properties were built with a distinct sensibility: to be a place where guests could let go and totally relax and, importantly, a place that was close to home. The Rhinebeck property, one of the newest spa facilities in the region (it opened last fall) was designed to resemble an old-world chic Parisian hotel — but one with 12,000 square feet and 14 treatment rooms.

Day spa packages include a variety of spa treatments (including a couples massage) plus dining, and range from $180-$420 Monday through Thursday. “Complimentary indulgences” include lounging in the resting area with a meditation pool and fireplace; use of the whirlpool with private bar and menu; an exercise class or workout in the fitness and yoga studios, and use of the steam room or Himalayan salt sauna.

You can still take advantage of Mirbeau’s Spa Night Out, $99 per person, on the remaining Thursdays in March from 5-9 p.m. Each guest receives a glass of champagne, a $10 credit towards dining at Willow, and choice of one signature spa service (Swedish massage, facial, dry skin ritual, or mani-pedi).

Mayflower Inn & Spa, Washington, CT

Billing itself as an exquisite country retreat that defines New England elegance, the Mayflower Inn & Spa is about as posh as you can get when it comes to “The New England Good Life.”

The Litchfield County country retreat, set on 58 acres of gardens and woodland, offers a package for day guests that includes lunch, a 60-minute facial or customized massage, plus another one of their services. You can choose an Ayurveda or nutrition consultation, or private sessions of meditation, Reiki, yoga, or Pilates. The Wellness Day package ($395), offered Monday–Thursday, allows access to the trails on the property (there’s an outdoor labyrinth) as well as the spa facilities that include steam, gym and meditation lounge.

Share this post

Written by
Lisa Green