When it comes to pampering oneself a good pour (read: full glass) of wine or a massage often does the trick. So when I heard about the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara’s new treatment, Vino Therapy, which combines these two wonders into one luxurious 80-minute long indulgence, I had to try it.
Upon entering the Spanish-style spa I was given a tour of the impressive facility—from the steam room and its menthol-infused crystals, to the gorgeous tile accents around the locker room, everything is taken into consideration. The beauty is definitely in the simplicity. My tour concludes with a glass of refreshing champagne, once again reinforcing my awe with the flawless execution, from my greeting to the goodbyes.
I head upstairs to the spacious lobby, equipped with an array of teas and juices. Yet the highlight lies beyond the space: the view of the glistening Pacific just beyond the rose garden acts as the spa’s backdrop. It’s impressive, to say the least. Dawn, my masseuse, with her gentle and serene presence, takes me to my Spa Suite equipped with hydrotherapy, a soaking tub, a burning fireplace, and the ocean view, peeking out from linen drapes. I’m ready to move in.
Dawn returns with my treatment options. Between a salt or sugar scrub, I opt for the latter, because sweets have always had a special place in my heart (and stomach). Next, I choose my scrub scent out of three vinotherapy blends from Santa Barbara Grapeseed Company: Pinot Noir, Rose, & Champagne. Given my earlier taste of the bubbly, I continue on the champs path. Here comes the good part, and my first time experiencing a body scrub in a spa. Dawn goes over every inch (practically) of my body, from the shoulders to the toes, with the aromatic scrub. The beauty of this treatment is that you’re getting a massage and intense exfoliation in one, a win-win. Next on the agenda is the full-body massage, post-shower of course. Dawn works her magic for the remainder of our session, releasing some serious knots in the process, as I drift away to a dreamy state of euphoria. To my dismay, our 80-minutes, which felt much longer but also not long enough (because who really wants a moment of bliss to be over?), comes to an end.
As I lift myself off the table I realize my skin has never felt so smooth. It’s like I’ve been reborn (no exaggeration). I slip on my plush robe and head to the Jungle Pool to continue my day of self-care in paradise . All in all, if you’re looking for a pick-me-up that guarantees you’ll leave rejuvenated, this is it. Because, sometimes you just need to treat yourself.
Originally published in Santa Barbara Life & Style's September/October 2018 issue.