Denver Spas

The Spa at the Brown Palace

Downtown Denver’s crown jewel, the historic Brown Palace Hotel, recently opened one of the city’s most luxurious spas, the Spa at the Brown Palace. Tucked away from the hustle of the Brown’s opulent lobby, the Spa at the Brown welcomes visitors with a soothing waterfall that sets the stage for the spa’s signature soaks. These invigorating bathing treatments enlist the hotel’s exclusive artesian well located 750 feet below the lobby. Among its six state-of-the-art treatment rooms, the standard spa favorites from massage to body wraps are all available in these exquisite surroundings. But for a truly memorable experience book the couple’s suite—a breathtaking room big enough for any couple to enjoy their romantic spa meal, side-by-side massages and a private soak in a tub to die for.

Skin behaves differently at 5280 feet above sea level, and the Spa at the Brown Palace addresses these skin-care qualms with exclusive treatments using the Auriege product suite. Try the “Moisture’s Kiss” 80-minute facial to rehydrate and revitalize. Or opt for the “Colorado River Stones” massage, a must for weary travelers as they acclimate to the Mile High City’s altitude.

Although this historic hotel was built in 1892, the spa opened in 2006 with special thought to male business travelers, providing a well-appointed men’s locker room and several treatments designed just for “him.” Although many treatments can be offered to hotel guests in their rooms, but it would be a shame to miss these luxurious spa surroundings.

Renaissance Aveda Spa & Salon at the Hotel Monaco
Another chic downtown hotel offers a sumptuous spa with a seasoned staff, the Renaissance Aveda Spa & Salon, located within the Hotel Monaco. A full-service spa and salon, the Renaissance offers a relaxed atmosphere in a modern décor. Famous for its toe treatments, don’t leave the spa without indulging in its “Hydrating Spa Pedicure,” a treat for the feet with a salt scrub exfoliating rub followed by a multi-faceted foot massage and decadent moisturizing treatment—finished off with an expert application of polish. An Aveda-concept salon, enjoy how nature and the elements play a role in all Renaissance treatments. In particular the spa offers several water-based therapies, the marquee treatment being the “Total Body Elixir.” This 60-minute Aruyvedic massage enlists various essential oils and sea salts for an invigorating scrub. Afterwards the therapists use a Vichy shower to bring water pressure to specific pressure points, finally finishing the treatment with a warm application of flower and plant compositions.

The Oxford Club at the Oxford Hotel
The Oxford Hotel, located in the heart of Lower Downtown (LoDo), houses a sophisticated spa that pampers visitors with skin and body care tailored to Colorado’s elements. Long a destination for locals craving expert skincare, The Oxford Club, offers clients a choice of Colorado-created Astara skin care products or industry favorite Dermalogica for facial treatments. Traditional massage and body wraps are also available at the Oxford Club, including its unusual “Herbal Steam” a lymphatic dry brushing of the body followed by time spent in the spa’s detoxifying steam tent. Afterwards an aromatherapy massage encourages circulation. It’s a cleansing treatment any spa junkie will appreciate.

Before leaving the Oxford Club, treat yourself to expert nail care in the spa’s sunniest spot. Expert technicians here are equally adept at a quick manicure or an indulgent pedicure. The view of Denver’s bustling downtown and nearby Union Station from this second-floor spa makes for excellent people watching while your digits dry.

Spa Universaire at the Belvedere
Even if your downtown hotel doesn’t offer a spa, there are several neighborhood sanctuaries worth seeking out. For a first-rate massage—often earning the top nod from local media—visit Spa Universaire located in an upscale apartment building, the Belvedere. Known for its discerning (and sometimes famous) local residents, the Belvedere is the perfect address for this wordly spa. An Aveda-concept salon, Spa Universaire tailors its service menu to the health and wellness traditions of exotic locales. Treatments rooms pay homage to 10 destinations ranging including the Taj Majal, the Pacific Rim and the Rainforest. Arrive early for a complimentary stint in the spa’s steam room and enjoy a pampering footbath with every treatment. Whether you want a traditional Swedish massage, a “Caribbean Therapy Body Treatment” or a heavenly “Hiker’s Foot Treatment” (perfect after spending the day on one of Colorado’s myriad trials), Spa Uninversaire consistently ranks among the best in Denver with locals.

The Woodhouse Day Spa
Just east of downtown a classic Victorian home has been transformed into a modern spa oasis at The Woodhouse Day Spa. A trip to the spa begins with refreshments on the large, glass enclosed wrap-around porch, the perfect place to unwind. One of the largest spas in the area, the Woodhouse is ideal for hosting pampering parties whether the occasion is a bridal or baby shower, a birthday party, or simply a girl’s night out. With two adjacent rooms filled with pedicure thrones, the Woodhouse can accommodate most any size group. The elegant yet homey setting sets the tone for a day of relaxation. A well-rounded menu of facial options offers skin care solutions for every malady. But the body treatments at the Woodhouse are not to be missed, all of which include time under the Vichy Shower, a massage-like rain shower from above. From its decadent “Magnolia Soufflé” exfoliating and moisturizing combination to the “Peppermint Sea Twist,” these relaxing skin treatments leave skin silky and the whole body refreshed.

Cherry Creek North

Just a short drive from downtown Denver is one of the city’s premiere shopping districts, Cherry Creek North. Among the chic local boutiques shoppers can also find some of Denver’s favorite spas.

A new arrival to the district is the breathtaking La Fontaine Aesthetics. Combining ancient Thai treatments and massage techniques with the latest in noninvasive cosmetic treatments, La Fontaine strikes a balance between old and new/East and West.

Treatments include a comprehensive facial menu, including the White Orchid Facial, which is not to be missed. For beauty junkies looking for more dramatic results, La Fontaine has two physicians on staff for cosmetic dental treatments or facial treatments including Botox, Restylane, or Sculputra.

An eastern flair runs through La Fontaine’s massage offerings, including the “Thai Herbal Ceremony Massage,” which incorporates meditation and yoga stretches with the massage treatment. Finally, schedule some relaxation time in the spa’s secluded Zen garden and emerge a more tranquil you.

Craving Italian instead? Bella Fiore Day Spa delivers a taste of Tuscany in its cozy spa. Featuring Italy’s Borghese skin care line, this charming spot is the place for treating dry, Colorado skin. Don’t miss any of the spa’s exfoliating treatments with Borghese’s gentle scrubs followed up with a rich moisturizing treatment.

Bella Fiore is also known around town for its ail treatments. Whether you need a quick lunchtime manicure or an extended 90-minute pedicure, this little gem knows how to treat tips and toes.

The elegant and stately grand dame of Cherry Creek spas is Ilona, a spa and skincare institute that has been a Denver landmark for 30 years. The spa has a classic décor reminiscent of an elegant home, which sets the tone for the Ilona philosophy. Founded by a Hungarian immigrant, Ilona Makari, the spa offers authentic European facials using their exclusive products line to its devoted clientele. Miss Ilona herself still can be found behind the counter, examining the work of her experienced team of aestheticians.

Facials here sacrifice the modern bells and whistles for traditional European techniques. Expect to leave with smooth, clear skin and personal skincare advise dispensed with a charming accent.

A short walk from Ilona sits another formidable neighborhood spa, Zuri BoutiqueSalonSpa. Featuring the Alina product line, Zuri’s facial menu runs the gamut from gentle European facials to high-tech microdermabrasian techniques. For even more sophisticated spa goers, Zuri offers both glycolic rejuvenators and medical grade Alpha Beta Face peels. Loyal clients come first for an expert skin care evaluation and a custom skin-care plan.

Once your face is glowing, take advantage of one of Zuri’s scrumptious body treatments. From traditional salt scrubs and mud wraps to its signature “Pumpkin Peel Exfoliating Wrap,” a sumptuous body treatment unlike any other in town.

Don’t be fooled by its small scale: Glo combines the best of both worlds with a hip boutique and select spa offerings. Walking into this sunny, modern space Glo features a small shop featuring of the world’s favorite beauty products. From fragrances to hair care, make-up to skin care, the Glo team picks and chooses only its favorite goodies.

Behind the packed store shelves sit a few small treatment rooms manned by the some of the city’s finest aestheticians. Glo loyalists like that the multitude of skin care lines offered at the store means every facial is designed with your particular skin in mind.

The spa also offers massage and nail treatments, but is best known for its expert skin care. After a treatment, check out Glo’s signature line of mineral-based cosmetics. The exclusive GloMinerals line has become a cult favorite not only among beauty editors and glamour girls, but also plastic surgeons who recommend it to their post-surgical clients.

Looking for a spa offering medical skin treatments? Head to Radiance Med Spa, staffed by a mix of MDs, RNs, and licensed aestheticians, here experienced technicians offer Botox, Restylane, facial peels, Photofacials, Intense Pulsed Light Hair Reduction and other results-oriented treatments. Founded and designed by a team of physicians, Radiance offers medical-based treatments in a relaxing spa environment. Plus, traditional treats such as massage add an element of pampering to serious skin care.

South

If plans call for you to head south of Denver, fear not for a lack of spas. In fact, some of the region’s favorite pampering spots sit only a short drive from downtown.

Near the bustling Denver Technology Center sits a longtime beloved spa for Denver’s south suburbs, Beau Visage Spa. Its approach to natural nail care has built a loyal following, especially for its signature “Hot Oil Manicure.” Catering to dry Colorado hands and nails, this thorough manicure instantly springs new life into your nails.

While at either of Beau Visage’s two locations (Littleton and Greenwood Village) check out the full-service menu of massage and facials. Or make a day of it and order a delicious spa lunch along with the treatments.

Another favorite among Denver’s savvy spa crowd is Lumiere Day Spa and Salon. Offering the feel of a French provincial estate, Lumiere sets a soothing tone as you enter the doors. Boasting a team of experienced aestheticans, Lumiere manages to combine thorough skin care with good old-fashioned pampering. Offering a variety of product lines including Murad, Cellex C, Sothy’s, and Dr. R.A. Eckstein BioKosmetik, Lumiere facials are tailored to each individual’s needs. Plus the added treat of hand and foot massages, make skin care treatments feel that much more special.

Perhaps the best excuse to drive south of Denver is a trip to Copper Falls Aveda Day Spa. Stepping into this gorgeous spa instantly lowers the blood pressure. Decorated with an Asian feel, Copper Falls aims to nurture its clients, encouraging the beauty within to blossom. The aura of relaxation and relief are evident in every aspect of this spa.

Although Copper Falls offers the most decadent massage and body treatments, that same standard of quality can be found even in its signature pedicures. Whether you choose a “Copperstone Massage” or a “Floating Massage” (given while upon water-filled cushions) the therapists at Copper Falls are some of the finest in the state.

Once you’ve made the drive, it would be crazy to leave the spa without Copper Falls’ signature “Rose Pedicure.” This hour-long treatment includes all the pedicure basics along with a dip of the toes into a rose-based paraffin treatment. Your feet will thank you.

North

North of Denver a spa revolution is about to take place, as Deepak Chopra is scheduled to open a state-of-the-art wellness center at the Westin Westminster in the summer of 2007. The Rocky Mountain Chopra Center & Spa promises to become a destination in and of itself. Planned as a 17,000 square foot spa, its largest in the country, look for Ayurvedic therapies and yoga classes offered alongside traditional nail and skin care. Ayurvedic therapies are based on ancient wisdoms that connect all elements of a person and their heath to their well-being. Treatments rely on identifying a mix of three mind/body principals —doshas—that create individual characteristics.

In the meantime, those looking for a spiritual spa experience need only drive 5 minutes from LoDo to experience A New Spirit Wellness Center & Spa. Located in the charming Highland neighborhood, A New Spirit encourages clients to book “float” time, in its exclusive flotation tank. The tank is a dark, soundproof box filled with shallow water and Epsom salts designed to relax users into a meditative state. Devotees claim a few minutes in the tank leave them refreshed and invigorated. Owner Andrea Hawkins Leigh quickly created a following of floaters among her regular spa clientele.

West

For travelers driving west of Denver to the mountains, the perfect pit stop is Evergreen’s TallGrass Aveda Spa & Salon. Nestled in the Foothills, this spa is the picture perfect Colorado spot. Rustic and charming, it feels like you’re visiting the vacation home of friends who just happen to have a spa staff on hand. Wrapped in a fluffy robe, admiring the mountain views or a roaring fireplace, visitors have a hard time leaving TallGrass. Make a day out of your spa treatments and order a healthy, delicious lunch cooked on the premises. (Vegetarian options are available with advance notice.)

Arrive a little early for some time in the steam room and then, let these expert aestheticians work their magic. Our tip for making the most of a trip to TallGrass? Always check the last-minute specials. TallGrass offers daily specials at a 20 percent discount when booked on the day of your visit.

Boulder

With its fitness-focused population it’s no wonder Boulder hosts two phenomenal spas to help soothe its many weekend warriors and adventure travelers.

Essentiels Spa has been Boulder’s favorite spa for more than a decade. Designed as if it were a seaside resort, Essentiels was the first spa in Colorado to feature the sea-based therapy products of Phytomer. A full-service spa complete with well-appointed locker rooms and a spacious steam room, Essentiels has a loyal following of Denverites willing to make the drive. For a truly unusual experience, book the “Mermaid Treatment,” a detoxifying process done in Essentiel’s exclusive thermal bed. Combinations of water and heat therapies leave the body silky smooth for days. Or for truly dehydrated skin, book “The Scrub,” a combination exfoliating treatment with a Vichy shower that increases circulation, leaving any spa fan energized.

Finally, don’t leave Essentiels without their famous pedicure. Located on the spa’s faux front porch, these almost hour-long treatments are perhaps the best in the state.

Boulder’s newest spa is quickly finding fans with locals and travelers alike. The Spa at the St Julien Hotel and Spa was designed to incorporate Colorado plants and indigenous elements in its signature treatments. Both the “Pinon and Pine Body Scrub” or the “Frothy Spearmint Scrub” are two body exfoliating treatments that can only be found here at the St Julien.

Alongside the locally based services, the St Julien offers a few treatments with global flair. These “International Indulgences” include the “LuLur,” a massage and body treatment from Java designed to be experienced by a bride-to-be 40 days before her wedding.

Even the skin and nail care incorporates local herbs whenever possible. But, for spa goers looking for local flavor of a different nature, end your trip to the St Julien with their Cocktail Pedicure and sip one of the hotel’s signature cocktails with your feet get the royal treatment.