Vacationers can be pampered with soothing spa treatments

When stress mounts, vacation boredom sprouts or the reason is to celebrate on all accounts, Spa Marbella of Mission Inn Resort & Club in Howey-in-the-Hills, Fla., is an elegant retreat featuring a variety of body treatments, facials, massages, body wraps, waxing, nail services and bridal services.

The 6,200-square-foot facility opened in November 2008 and includes four individual massage rooms; a Tsunami Swiss Shower with surrounding jets and an overhead plunge; a manicure and pedicure salon; and his and hers relaxation lounges, locker rooms and aromatic steam chambers featuring scents such as Bulgarian lavender and peppermint eucalyptus.

“Spa Marbella certainly brings Mission Inn to a competition level of international resorts,” said Kathy Neiman, spa director. “There are so many wonderful things at Mission Inn. The spa is just another jewel in its crown of amenities.”

From the moment stepping through the spa’s large wooden double doors, it is apparent Spa Marbella strives to provide luxury during a client’s entire stay. Guests are greeted by warm smiles and a peaceful décor that is best described as “clean, cool, Mediterranean-like.” From the reception area to the well-appointed lounges, guests are offered hot tea or infused water, such as cucumber or rosemary-lemon. Other beverages and food are available by order from one of Mission Inn’s three restaurants.

The “wow factor” of the spa is more evident in the massage rooms and salon. New equipment and a comfortable setting set the tone for a relaxing experience. Therapists are trained in the lavish product lines of Pevonia and Pure Fiji, and are dual and triple trained.

“What that allows is some of our clients can come in and have the same therapist through their entire stay,” Neiman said.

In addition to the four massage rooms, a couples’ suite features dual massage tables and a spectacular circular shower for two. The double Kohler shower features 12 multi-directional body jets and eight overhead sprays. Couples also enjoy access to a private lanai with a calming fountain. The room is popular for side-by-side treatments for couples, mothers & daughters and girlfriends.

“Our couples’ room is really a wonderful amenity,” Neiman said. “We had a father and daughter come in recently to celebrate the daughter’s birthday and the dad received a massage and the daughter a body wrap.”

One of Spa Marbella’s most popular treatments is the Pure Fiji Experience. The process begins with an exfoliation with raw sugar cane and virgin pressed coconut oil. This sugar scrub is removed with warm compresses and hot towels. Skin is nourished and hydrated with body butter and a choice of three scents: passionflower, mango or star fruit.