Warm up at These 4 Seattle-area Day Spas
The week’s shift has style and social writer Andrew Hoge yearning for warmer pastures
By Andrew Hoge January 17, 2020
Many of us had to pull out our parkas to battle this week’s sub-freezing temperatures. While the frosty weather signals a drive to the slopes for some, others might prefer to indulge in après-ski activities all day long. These four inner-city day spas are perfect for escaping the cold and trying out a new treatment or two—parka not required.
Life Time Bellevue LifeSpa
Life Time Bellevue opened at the bottom of The Shops at The Bravern in 2018, showcasing an array of premium options for the fitness enthusiast. While access to the fitness center requires a membership, the location’s LifeSpa,a calming modern oasis, is open to the public. Just beyond the club’s posh entryway guests can enjoy premium skincare and massage services that range between $65-$130. And there’s no need for parents to worry about future unexpected snow days; a session at the spa comes with two complimentary hours at the onsite Kids Academy.
Ummelina Day Spa
Across the street from Westlake Park hides one of downtown Seattle’s best kept secrets. The Ummelina Day Spa, which opened in 1986, is an easy way to step away from city noise and indulge in mineral spring bathtub soaks, facials and body treatments (including salt scrubs and infrared sessions). Pro tip: Be sure to allot enough time to try the multi-jet shower after your session, there’s nothing quite like it.
Banya 5
Banya 5 is a co-ed day spa positioned on the edge of South Lake Union that delivers on the “unique sensory experience” touted on its website. For $45 ($30 with a 50-minute service) guests can partake in the Parilka, a heated sauna made of concrete and basalt brick; Turkish steam room, a toasty 113 degrees of airborne eucalyptus; and cold and hot pools. The space offers a more social experience than other spas, and if spending a couple hours exploring each experience (isn’t that what everyone does?) isn’t enough, you can schedule a spa service ahead of time; from mud wraps to massages.
Olympus Spa
Arguably one of the region’s well-known day retreats is Olympus Spa, which has two locations: up north in Lynnwood and south in Tacoma. The owners’ traditional Korean approach seeks to balance physical and mental health with a series of pools and infrared lit rooms (this type of light penetrates deep into the skin), as well as a full array of spa services including body scrubs and massages A day pass will cost you $43 (50% off on your birthday) and since this one is for ladies only, you might want to read up on the dress code here.
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