Taking time-out at the Cavallo Point Healing Arts Center & Spa
Remember when you were a kid (or you have kids) and were told (or you tell them) “take a time-out?” Well, sometimes we must tap into our inner parent to get permission as an adult to take a time-out and temporarily step off life’s merry-go-round.
When asked what my favorite places are for restoration and rejuvenation, the Healing Arts Center & Spa at Cavallo Point in Sausalito immediately comes to mind. First off, it is a great escape when you really need to get away but do not have the time or energy to go out of town. It is so close. Yet my healing starts the moment I arrive; I am transported as if miles away.
Perhaps, it is the sheer natural beauty of the sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the rolling hills of the Marin Headlands (perfect for hikes or biking before and after the spa), and the expansive landscapes. A bounty of nature greets you when you first enter what feels like a secret enclave as the world you just left begins to fade.
Catch refreshing whiffs from the surrounding eucalyptus and pines walking up the path to enter the tranquil and earthy, 11,000-square-foot Healing Arts Center & Spa at Cavallo Point. Here, a world of globally inspired wellness offerings designed for nurturing and renewal awaits. Integrating the finest cultural healing practices, this contemporary oasis offers everything from signature spa treatments, such as massages and facials to soothing soaks in the heated outdoor meditation pool. Plan time to sip away stress and enjoy a delicious lunch in the tranquility of the outdoor garden or at the indoor Tea Bar Café before or after your treatment. The spa’s seasonally inspired menu from chef Michael Garcia features salads and light fare and a curated selection of Ikaati teas.
What is unique about The Healing Arts Center & Spa is the variety of treatments and practitioners available under one roof. While there are the expected (and not to be underestimated) massages and facials, an array of unexpected healing modalities and alternative holistic medical treatments are also available, such as hypnotherapy and guided imagery for addressing anxiety, weight loss, addiction, or that feeling of being stuck or blocked in an area. There are four energy work treatments to choose from, as well as herbal treatments and consultations on nutrition. And for the adventurous, there is even a guided journey towards inner healing with a shaman (Shamanic Journeys). Men, if you think all this fun is just for the ladies, check out the Guys Day Out package tailored just for men. (Drop a hint: it is the perfect indulgence for upcoming Father’s Day.)
For guests looking for more enhanced, deeper, and longer experiences, the Healing Arts Center & Spa offers five “Retreat into Wellness” itineraries for planning a personal wellness retreat (all can be customized) alone, with friends or your partner:
- Room to Roam: An active itinerary. Suggested activities are hiking, biking, and/or kayaking, ending the day with a deep tissue massage and meditation.
- A Haven for Healing: Activities are designed to be transformative for healing.
- Lean in to Love: Perfect for two. Connectedness meditation, custom sound bath for two, hiking, and organic massage
- Relax. Reset. Renew: Sleep longer with a sleep package, outdoor yoga, meditation massage, hypnotherapy, acupuncture, and tea bar.
- New Year. New You: For any time you need a fresh start. This package includes a shamanic journey, herbal consultation, hypnotherapy, dermalinfusion facial, chakra energy balancing, and tea bar.
These five immersive itineraries offer wonderful opportunities to take time out to return to nature, quiet the mind, find gratitude in simple joys, reconnect with yourself or your partner, and focus on well-being.
The Healing Arts Center & Spa is the perfect getaway for singles or couples. My favorite day there begins with a hike, then a massage or treatment, a steam or hot tub, then tea and food afterward either at the spa or at Farley Bar or Sula—a great place to meet friends. I always stop by the Mercantile before lunch, drinks, or dinner to check out their latest offerings or pick up a gift for an upcoming birthday or holiday. Such is my perfect day, either alone, as a girlfriend’s getaway, or as a special time away with my husband.
There are plenty of after treatment options to continue your wellness journey if you decide to stay overnight, such as daily morning yoga and miles of hiking trails in the 75,000 acres of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Private guided hikes are available if you want to learn the trails. For the less ambitious, just strolling around the lodge’s parade grounds before or after a latte or cappuccino and walking down near the water is very relaxing and still affords a bit of exercise.
If you are concerned about leaving your best four-legged friend behind, the Cavallo Point Lodge is pet-friendly if you decide to stay. My dog, Arnie, always remembers the room I stay in as he goes right to it each time. Just keep your pet on the leash, as it is a National Park and there is wildlife.
So, the next time you think you just cannot get away, think again. Your wellness retreat is right around the corner just waiting for you to discover it.
HAUTE LIVING READERS CAN ENJOY THIS SPECIAL PACKAGE THROUGH AUGUST 2023
Marin Wellness Escape
- Overnight stay (your choice of historic or contemporary room)
- Complimentary room upgrade at time of check-in, subject to availability
- Organic massage
- $100 dining credit for Farley or Sula
Starting at $795* (single) $1,099* (double)
*Excluding taxes and gratuity and depends on room type and availability.
For reservations call: 415-339-4700