After the season of giving to everyone else, the most important gift in the new year is a commitment to self-care. We’ve chosen three newer spas in Texas that invite you to focus on rejuvenation and healthy living. — June Naylor
Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa
In the hills northwest of Austin toward Bee Cave, this landmark resort revealed its thorough transformation last spring after a lengthy $150 million renovation and expansion. At its heart is Barton Creek’s new 13,000-square-foot Mokara Spa. For a new you, try the Texas Sun Seeker, a skin treatment aimed at reversing sun damage and premature aging; Arnica Restoration, a massage incorporating heat packs and homeopathic arnica gel to reduce pain in muscles and joints; and Inner Glow Ritual, a top-to-toe scrub wrapping you in shea butter and giving your scalp a hot oil aromatherapy treatment prior to a body massage. Spa patrons also have access to the rooftop pool and healthy cuisine at Spa Creek Café.
8212 Barton Club Drive, Austin, 512-329-4000, omnihotels.com
A rooftop pool with a view.
Photo courtesy of Omni Barton Creek Resort
Relax in European-style lounge areas while awaiting spa treatments at Hotel Alessandra.
Photo courtesy of Hotel Alessandra
Hotel Alessandra
One step inside this stunning downtown Houston hotel is like walking into a European boutique hotel. Beyond the chic design that includes a grand entry with a marble staircase, there’s a spa hidden away that transports you far from the urban fray. Among specialties is a roster of seasonal treatments, starting with Renew You in January, a resurfacing skin treatment incorporating an arctic berry peel process with botanical peptide product aimed to give you a youthful glow. In February, the Rosehip Head-to-Toe Package energizes and restores your skin from stem to stern with repair complexes, hydrators and balms incorporating rosehip and lemongrass botanicals. Massage therapy also is offered, including treatments focused on feet and legs and one especially for pregnant guests. The hotel’s Maserati car service is complimentary.
1070 Dallas St., Houston, 713-242-8555, hotelalessandra-houston.com
Miraval
On the property formerly known as Travaasa, this resort unfolds on rocky hills near the shores of Lake Travis, about an hour northwest of downtown Austin. In addition to a wide selection of body and skin treatments, many of which are based on Eastern medicine practices, Miraval also offers yoga and meditation programs. Or book appointments with an art therapist, wellness counselor, diet and nutrition specialist, exercise physiologist, equine therapists or astrologers. On the resort’s farm, you can learn about beekeeping and raising chickens. Culinary programs are offered as well, matching Miraval’s healthy cuisine. Specials through Jan. 31 include a free third night with a two-night stay; and the Winter Companion Package, giving you 15 percent off your package if you room with a friend. Airport shuttles are included, and there’s no tipping at the resort.
13500 FM 2769, 855-234-1672, miravalaustin.com
Meditation and yoga offerings join opportunities for wellness counseling, equine therapy and more feel-good activities at Miraval.
Photos courtesy of Miraval.