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Lake Tahoe Activities and News

Ski & Stay with a Hot Winter Deal

January 26th, 2012

Welcome back winter! There is new snow and great skiing all around Lake Tahoe. Granlibakken is Tahoe’s original ski resort near Tahoe City, with central lodging and ski and stay packages for 8 area resorts.

For $139 a person you get one adult all-day lift ticket to your choice of one of Tahoe’s 8 ski resorts, one night’s lodging, a hot breakfast buffet and use of sauna, heated outdoor pool and hot tub.

Located on 74 secluded acres on the northwest corner of the lake, Granlibakken offers accommodations ranging from cozy lodge rooms to studios with fireplaces and kitchens to one to eight bedroom townhomes. Not really interested in skiing or snowboarding? No problem! The lift ticket is exchangeable for a $50 credit for on-site amenities at the Lighthouse Spa or the Tahoe Cross Country Center to explore miles of historic cross country ski trails. But if the mountains are calling you, choose one of the close resorts that best fits your interest.

There's plenty of snow to make a few turns.

For a smaller mountain with spectacular views of the lake you’ll definitely want to make the short trip to Homewood Mountain Resort.  Only 6.1 miles away from Granlibakken, Homewood offers 1,260 skiable acres, 8 lifts and 60 trails.  Make the most of your day at the smaller resort of Homewood then head back to Granlibakken to snuggle up next to the fire.

Alpine Meadows  is a known local favorite.  Ski or snowboard across 2,400 acres with 14 lifts, 100 trails and 7 bowls.  You don’t have to go far for dining and shopping as Alpine Meadows has both on location.  A short drive of 8.3 miles will put you at Alpine in no time for a day filled with skiing or snowboarding.

Squaw Valley USA, home of the 1960 winter Olympics, offers visitors skiing/snowboarding, shopping, and dining.  With 4,000 skiable acres across 6 peaks, 30 lifts and 170+ trails Squaw is consistently one of the top destinations for skiers and snowboarders around the world to visit in Lake Tahoe.  The Village at Squaw offers shopping, first class restaurants, live music as well as other events throughout the year.  Don’t miss Squaw’s High Camp which offers ice skating, an Olympic museum and a pool and hot tub. Just 8.5 miles from Granlibakken, Squaw is guaranteed to keep you busy and entertained all day.

Vail Resorts newest addition, Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort, also has a lot to offer and was recently named two-time Olympic gold medalist Shawn White’s home mountain. Northstar has 3,170 skiable acres, 20 lifts, 97 trails and 7 terrain parks for your skiing pleasure.  If you tire quickly from skiing the Village at Northstar offers ice skating, premium dining and shopping. Located 10.4 miles from Granlibakken, Northstar is another excellent resort with an abundance of activities.

Another local favorite is Sugar Bowl.  With 1,500 skiable acres across 4 peaks, 13 lifts and 95 trails Sugar Bowl, like Homewood, is a smaller option, but one that is not void of great runs and a fun day of skiing or snowboarding.  A little further of a drive at 24.8 miles, Sugar Bowl will show Granlibakken guests a different side of the north shore of Lake Tahoe.

For panoramic views of both Lake Tahoe and Nevada Mt. Rose is the place for you. Mt. Rose has 1,200+ skiable acres, 8 lifts and 60+ trails available. Located 25.5 miles away from Granlibakken, it is a bit further of a drive but definitely worth it for the unbeatable views.

Wool socks and a cozy fire are perfect on cold winter nights.

The largest resort Heavenly, offers 4,800 skiable acres, 30 lifts and 97 trails.  31.8 miles away from Granlibakken, Heavenly has more than enough to keep a family entertained for a day.  Other than skiing and snowboarding with incomparable views of the lake, the Heavenly Village offers ice skating, a variety of dining options, shopping, a movie theater and Après happy hour deals both on and off the mountain.

A South shore favorite is Sierra-at-Tahoe, with 2,000 skiable acres, 14 lifts, 46 trails and 5 terrain parks to keep skiers and snowboarders wanting more.  One of the best places to have lunch in Tahoe is the 360º Smokehouse BBQ at the Grandview lodge at Sierra.  The delicious menu and panoramic views of the Lake Tahoe basin make the 40.1 mile drive from Granlibakken worth it.

Any of these 8 resorts are an easy drive for a day filled with skiing and/or snowboarding, shopping and dining.  And the best part is at the end of the day you get to return to your cozy and personal lodging at Granlibakken.

 

Don’t miss this opportunity! Have you booked your winter retreat to Granlibakken yet?

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Guest Blog: Tahoe Honors Olympic Heritage

January 13th, 2012

By Al Saracevic From SFGate.com Slope Dope

Photos by: Granlibakken Resort

California State Parks and a group of Tahoe businesses are planning to honor the area’s Olympic heritage with a series of events in January that will focus on the region’s Nordic skiing history.

The biathlon and cross-country events at the 1960 Squaw Valley Olympics were held in what is now Sugar Pine Point State Park. A few years back, Tahoe historians and preservationists went back and retraced the routes used during that Olympiad and now visitors can literally ski and snowshoe in those same tracks.

“The magic of the Olympics and our California snow heritage comes alive as our visitors ski or snowshoe under the forest canopy or along Tahoe’s magical shoreline,” said California State Parks’ Interpretation Program Manager Heidi Doyle.

Here’s a list of the events outlining this weekend Olympic Heritage Celebration:

Jan 13 (Fri) 6-8pm Olympian Dinner at Granlibakken

Cedar House Pub, at Granlibakken Resort is sponsoring a very special evening in honor of Olympic Heritage Celebration week by offering 50% of the evening’s profits to be donated towards the Olympic Trails restoration efforts. Come and enjoy a fabulous menu of local favorites while mingling with other Nordic enthusiasts and contributing to a worthy cause. Call 530-581-7307 for reservations.

 

Jan 14 (Sat) 10am-1pm Citizens Against the Clock

Strap on your cross country skis and get ready to live the thrill of Olympic competition! The West Shore Business Association with Turning Point Tahoe are sponsoring a Citizens Against the Clock event which puts skiers, of all ages and abilities, on a short cross-country ski course followed by an electronic rifle shooting range, proving a safe and family friendly way to experience this Olympic sport. This is your chance to try something new and fun! Turning Point Tahoe will be providing adaptive skiing options, making this event accessible to all! Each skier will be electronically timed and the results posted. The course will be run between 10am and 1pm. The event is free. There is an $8 per vehicle parking fee.

Jan 15 (Sun) 12pm-2pm Historic Cross Country Ski Tour

Dave Antonucci, author of “A Snowballs Chance: The Story of the 1960 Winter Olympics”, will lead Nordic skiers on a interpretive tour of the Olympic Ski Trails located at Sugar Pine Point State Park. This intermediate level 10 kilometer tour will take you to Olympic Meadows, the site of the Biathlon range with stops along the way where you will learn of about our fascinating snow heritage. This will be a tour that you will never forget! The event is free and parking is $8. Please wear layered clothing, bring water, energy snack and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Jan 15 (Sun) 2:30-3:30pm Olympic Heritage Celebration Closing Ceremonies

Join past Olympians and local dignitaries as we commemorate the official end of the Olympic Heritage Celebration events with the extinguishing of the Olympic caldron. The ceremony will take place in front of a replica of the Tower of Nations that stood at the entrance of Squaw Valley to welcome visitors to the 1960 Winter Olympic Games. This free event will be held near the campground entrance of Sugar Pine Point State Park. Hot cider and cookies will be provided.

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Stay, Play and Party at Granlibakken

December 30th, 2011

3…2…1… Happy New Year! New Years Eve always brings parties, family, friends and resolutions. Still no plans for New Years Eve? Start the year off right and make a reservation at.

Granlibakken Conference Center & Lodge

Granlibakken Resort is the perfect place to be for the New Year’s Holiday.  Don’t worry about having to drive on New Year’s Eve because Granlibakken offers a party and a place to stay. For $195 you have lodging, festivities and an abundance of fun.

Enjoy a New Years Eve buffet party with all the guests ($195 rate includes two seats) at the Cedar House Pub. Dance the night away with music all night.  Take a break from dancing for dessert and champagne at 11:30 p.m. As the countdown to the New Year stats make sure you have your date to kiss at midnight! Sip on champagne in traditional New Years Eve fashion and enjoy an evening with your friends and/or family.

Cheers to 2012!

While you’re visiting make sure to check out Tahoe City for the Shop Local Contest! All day every day Shop Local and win Prizes. For every $20 spent at a participating business earn a sticker, 3 stickers and you can enter to win prizes. 13 or more stickers and you are eligible for a Grand Prize worth $500.

So if you are undecided about New Years come to a place that has it all.  Granlibakken is always happy to have you and is sure to offer an unforgettable celebration. Happy New Year!

Dance the night away.

 

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Guest Blog: Rest & Rejuvenate

November 11th, 2011

By Dan Giesin on http://www.7×7.com/tahoe

Although the waters of Lake Tahoe aren’t strictly restorative, folks from the City have been traveling to the Big Blue for generations in seeking solace from the hassles of day-to-day urban life.

Come Friday, you can head up to Tahoe for a little R&R and perhaps get some health concerns cleared up in the bargain as Granlibakken Lodge plays host to the annual Women’s Wellness Weekend in Tahoe City.

Formerly under the aegis of Tahoe Forest Hospital – after two decades of running the show, the Truckee facility is now simply collaborating with the program – the two-day Women’s Wellness Weekend attempts to fuse accepted medical practices with alternative options to offer a balanced weekend of interactive clinics on skin screenings, body/muscle testing, inspirational and informative seminars on health, nutrition and aging and recreational activities.

 

“It’s a community collaboration,” Granlibakken promotions manager Shawna Lee said. “(Local) health professionals, medical doctors, fitness instructors … are all donating their time and expertise in the name of health and well-being.”

Among the seminar presenters are clinical psychologist Amy Vail of Olumpic Valley; oncologist/hematologist Ahrin Koppel, one of the main MDs at the new cancer center in Truckee; Dr. Gregory Tirdel, a local sleep disorder specialist, and Carolyn Willette, a cardiac rehabilitation nurse from Tahoe Forest Hospital.

Other seminar options include ki gong, a form of exercise using breathing, posture and meditation; restorative yoga, and an astrology/health class. Pilates and yoga classes; acupuncture, chiropractic and skin-care presentations; body fat testing; blood lab readings; a 5K fun run and a one-mile nature walk are also on the agenda.

Registration fee for the Women’s Wellness Weekend is $99, which covers most seminars, breakfast Saturday and Sunday, a lunch on Saturday and a beer/wine social hour, also on Saturday. For those seeking lodging, Granlibakken is offering a $138.40 per person per night double-occupancy rate; seminar fee is included in the package. Log on to granlibakken.com to register or to get further information.

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Guest Blog: Granlibakken Lodge Review

November 4th, 2011

By The Mom Reviews

Now that Fall is upon us, the leaves are changing, the weather is cooling down, but travel is still high on our list! We typically head to Lake Tahoe during the summer, that’s the time of year best suited for our whole family for biking, swimming, and hiking. But, a few weeks ago we got the chance to visit Tahoe City’s Granlibakken Conference Center and Lodge and had an amazing stay and weekend doing almost all of those summer activities and more!

Located about 5 hours from home in a picturesque valley minutes from the lake and south of Truckee, Granlibakken is a year-round spot for business or pleasure. The resort encompasses 74 wooded acres with the sweet sugar pine scent filling your senses as your explore the grounds. 5 tennis courts, outdoor heated pools (wading pool for kids)/spa and saunas, nature trails, bike rentals, a ropes course, and a par course will keep your family active all year, with cross-country skiing, practice ski hills, and a snow play area in the winter. With over a dozen ski areas within 30 minutes, this is a wonderful choice for your next vacation.

Lodging
With many choices such as bedrooms, studios, or suites, our family of 5 stayed in a Granlibakken’s townhouse with two bedrooms and loft that fit us all perfectly!

With a full living room and comfortable seating, the family had the chance to enjoy a movie in, rest after a long day in the mountains, and feel the openness of the floorplan. Just above the adjacent dining room and kitchen, the loft with a queen bed was a perfect spot for my near-teenage daughter. Her own television, desk, and door(!) kept all her belongings in one spot and gave her just enough privacy that she needed.

The townhome had the most incredibly comfortable furniture. The seats around the dinner table were soft leather and the couch was super cushy, with warm sherpa blankets in the closets, the 35 degree nights were snuggle time! The view from the back patio (with table and chairs) is in the above bottom right picture. The fall colors were amazing and the quiet about the resort made for peaceful evenings and great morning walks!

The townhome amenities were just like home, decor was beautiful for a mountain residence, art and modern touches surrounded us. The granite countertops in the kitchen were gorgeous, I was happy to warm up to tea in the evening, during the summer fans are available in the closets. Two full bathrooms were enough for 5 of us and bonus for the 3 flatscreen televisions, all were equipped with their own Blu-ray player!

Dining
Eating family style in the dining area reminding me of my college days, more especially this weekend because a group from UC Davis was holding a conference on the grounds and many had their UCD sweatshirts on! The food was delicious and served buffet style in the morning, lucky for guests this meal is included in your stay! Think bread pudding, quiche Lorraine, cheese blintzes, breads, pastries, cereals, eggs, pancakes, bacon, fruits, yogurts, and so much more! I’ve never seen my kids eat so much!

Dinner was just as abundant and delicious. The buffet is different each night, there are themes, Mexican (sometimes with Mariachis included!), Italian, BBQ, and more, salads are always available, vegetarian options too! Prime rib, NY steaks, chicken, red pepper coulis, stuffed zucchini, baked potatoes, bread, soups, there is no need to leave the grounds during your stay with the offers on site!

Lighthouse Spa
Remember when I said the resort area is quiet and peaceful, why not build on that thought with a spa treatment from Lighthouse Spa. The Spa at Granlibakken offers three relaxing treatment rooms, including an area for multiple treatments and parties, a cozy waiting area and a refreshing outdoor deck in the midst of the Sierra. You’ll love the experience of a blissful retreat for all of your special occasions, weddings, or wellness weekends. I had the amazing opportunity to have a reflexology treatment on my feet. Never done this in the past I swore I never would fall asleep and with the music so calming and low, the perfect temperature of the room and the view of the ski hill out my window, I admit my masseuse said I was OUT! After coming too, I felt the relaxation overflow, that light-headed feeling of being rested and calm. We talked about the stressors my body expressed and ways to deal with them. Why I haven’t treated myself more often to spa treatments is beyond me, everyone needs to do it at least every few months! The Spa offers:

• Massage Therapy
• Skin Care
• Manicures & Pedicures
• Body Waxing
• Body Therapy & Healing Treatments
• Ayurveda Health & Wellness

I asked my masseuse to tell me how much she loved her job and she says she especially loves it when another masseuse pays back in trade and she gets her turn! I don’t blame her!

Our stay was hosted for two nights, including two breakfasts, one dinner, and a spa treatment (I did pay gratuities). All opinions are our own.

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Sierra Sun Previews Wellness Weekend

October 31st, 2011

As part of Granlibakken’s commitment to health and wellness, they will host the annual Lake Tahoe Women’s Wellness Weekend Nov. 12-13. The event fuses Eastern tradition with Western practices to offer a balanced weekend interactive clinics on skin screenings, body/muscle testing; inspirational and informative seminars on health, nutrition, aging; recreational activities along with food and wine.

The community event complements the health and wellness activities Granlibakken offers its guests, including an array of outdoor recreation: skiing, xc-skiing, snowshoeing in the winter and biking, hiking, rafting, boating and tennis in the summer. The resort provides healthy meal options, year-round heated outdoor pool, hot tub, sauna and new on site multi-treatment Day Spa.

The Women’s Wellness Weekend retreat begins, Saturday, Nov. 12, with a 5K fun run or a 1-mile nature walk around Granlibakken, followed by a breakfast. Presentations kick off with a discussion led by clinical psychologist Amy Vail of Olympic Valley

Seminars on Saturday include environmental and breast health, nutrition, healthy aging and optional empowering exercise activities. Dr. Koppel, specializing in hematology and medical oncology, is part of the new cancer center in Truckee and will discuss cancer prevention and breast health. Dr. Tirdel, a sleep disorder expert, will present “Sleepless in Tahoe” providing insight and tips on attaining a full night’s rest. Carolyn Willette, a registered nurse from Truckee Forest Hospital, will address heart health with her seminar, “The Heart of Matter.”

Participants can choose between Ki Gong, a form of gentle exercise using breathing, posture and meditation; restorative yoga; or an astrology/health class. Astrological chart readings by Robert Ayres are also available. Lunch is provided with additional talks throughout the afternoon. The evening finishes with wine and shopping, including local health booths and artisans, i.e.: jewelry, fabric, etc.

Wellness Weekend continues on Sunday with breakfast and optional Cross-fit, Pilates and yoga classes options include health, financial planning, acupuncture, chiropractic and skin care presentation. Rounding out the weekend is an interactive fair with gait analysis, the study of human motion by measuring body movements, mechanics and muscle activity; makeup artists; body fat testing; skin screenings and manicure and pedicure stations. Blood lab readings are available for an additional charge. A Zumba Party, which combines Latin and international music for an effective workout, is also scheduled Sunday afternoon.

For information on speakers, health fairs, seminars visit www.granlibakken.com. Registration costs $99, some seminars additional fees apply. To register, visit www.granlibakken.com, select “make a reservation,” click “conference” and use “www” as login and password. Grab a girlfriend and stay for $138.50 per person double occupancy per night (rate includes conference fee).

Granlibakken's Women's Wellness Weekend invites mothers, daughters, sisters and aunties for two days of exercise, informative talks, skin care and more near Lake Tahoe's West Shore. Thinkstockphotos.com


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Pre-season Ski Training Tips

October 13th, 2011

Even though the weather is still in the 60s and 70s (in fact record highs today) ski season is around the corner with area resorts anticipating opening in a little over a month. Whether you ski 5-10 days a season of 40 + you’ll likely be sore the first few times you hit the slopes.

Keep in mind we’re not health experts, but here’s a few tips to help you before strapping on those skis and snowboards this season.

http://www.coreperformance.com/knowledge/workouts/prepare-for-winter-ski-season.html

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here’s a few of my favorite exercises/stretches:

Core Performance recommends training session that combines lower body strength-boosting moves, power exercises and drills to solidify your hips, torso and shoulders. This helps to build strength and speed for the mountain while carving up a more flexible body, and one that’s more resilient to injury.

Did you know that we’re located near several of the top resorts in the country, including Squaw Valley USA, Northstar-at-Tahoe and local favorites like Alpine and Homewood. We have array of ski/stay packages (of course includes our delicious hot daily breakfast and transportation to several of the resorts) – rates will be available soon.

What’s your favorite pre-ski season exercise? Do you prefer to ski or snowboard?

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Sunday Bike Stroll

September 22nd, 2011

It’s Indian Summertime in Lake Tahoe – which means less crowds, temps in the low 70s, plenty of daylight and all the same outdoor recreation we love in the summer. In fact, it’s one of my favorite times of the year. The other weekend my partner in crime and I stayed at Granlibakken and rented bikes for a Sunday stroll along Tahoe City. The wonderful part about Granlibakken is they arrange the rentals for you and the bikes are delivered from West Shore Sports. You don’t have to do anything, no lines, nothing.

We ventured about a mile to the trail that takes you along the Truckee River. One word: be-au-ti-ful! It provides ideal spots for photos ops, reading plaques about wildlife and the environment and just soaking in the views. This four mile section from Tahoe City to Squaw Valley is a paved multi-use trail that is mostly flat with a few easy grades (we only biked until River Ranch because we wanted to have plenty of time to explore downtown Tahoe City). It’s located far enough away from the road that you aren’t bombarded by the noise of nearby traffic. The trail can be busy at times so abide by the rules of staying to the right side in case people want to pass on your left.

Granlibakken is an ideal home base for accessing a variety of scenic road and mountain biking trails along West Shore. Stay tuned for more info on riding around Commons Beach as well as biking/walking along the shops in Tahoe City.

Peddle Safe!

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Women’s Wellness Weekend

September 15th, 2011

Leave the men at home weekend…

As part of Granlibakken’s commitment to health & wellness, the annual Lake Tahoe Women’s Wellness Weekend – a long standing community event in Tahoe City- will now be hosted by the resort November 12-13. The event fuses Eastern tradition with Western practices to offer a balanced weekend of information, inspiration, activities, food & wine.

Hosting events is Granlibakken’s forte.  The schedule for the Women’s Wellness Weekend starts with optional exercise activities including a 5k fun run or 1 mile nature walk through the perimeter of Granlibakken’s hillside forest. I love running in the fall when it’s cool, you don’t get overheated and seeing the Autumn leaves – it’s beautiful.

Breakfast is followed by an opening “jump-start” talk by respected Psychologist Amy Vail.  Seminars on Saturday include breast health, environmental health, nutrition, healthy aging and empowering exercise activities (optional).  Choose between Ki Gong, a form of gentle exercise using breathing, posture and meditation:  Restorative Yoga, Or a special class  ref: Astrology/Health.  Lunch is provided and flows into further talks throughout the afternoon. Saturday evening finishes with wine and shopping. Go for a new experience and have your astrological chart read by Robert Ayres (additional charge).

Festivities on Sunday include optional exercise classes of Cross-fit, Pilates and yoga with discussion classes and a health fair. Enjoy breakfast followed by classes on finances for your future, acupuncture, chiropractic and skin care. The afternoon includes an interactive health fair including gait analysis, makeup artists, body fat testing, skin screenings, mani & pedi stations and much more.  Blood lab readings are available and must be signed up for in advance (additional charge).  For the adventurous women attend the Zumba Party Sunday afternoon.

Registration is only $99.00. To register, please visit Granlibakken’s homepage and click “make a reservation.” Click “conference” and use the information:  “www” as your login and password.

Grab a girlfriend and stay for $138.50/person double occupancy per person per night (rate includes conference fee).

So who’s going to join me this weekend? What aspect are you most interested in learning?  I’m intrigued by Astrology/Health and love Zumba classes!

 

- Jenn

 

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Day at the Spa

September 8th, 2011

Tahoe’s Lighthouse Day Spa second location is now open at Granlibakken Resort and Conference Center at the bucolic family resort near Tahoe City. I had the luxury to take my better half to Granlibakken for a weekend retreat – or staycation. On Sunday of our visit we started the day with a delicious hearty breakfast at the resort with eggs benny, sausage, cinnamon toast and fresh fruit. We went for a morning bike ride and then came back to relax and pamper ourselves.

I had the foot massage, scrub and pedicure. My feet looked brand new, felt so soft and the nail polish was a complementary color for my skin tone. Sitting there with the nail manicurist, talking about life while starring at the beautiful hillsides of the quaint Norwegian resort I couldn’t think of a better way to spend the day.

              

Meanwhile, my boyfriend received the first professional massage of his life. After 45 minutes of avoiding drooling and falling asleep on the massage table he came out of the room grinning ear to ear and was the most relaxed rejuvenated I’ve ever seen him. He does carpentry and works hard long hours and needless to say he had muscles that he didn’t know were tense and sore. He exclaimed he’s hooked and wants a massage every week!

The new location boasts three treatment rooms and a number of wellness packages aimed at revitalization and relaxation, including customized and deep tissue massage, hot stone therapy, pre-natal, reiki healing and coming soon couples massages.

Lighthouse Day Spa opened its original location in Tahoe City in 1992 and enjoys a reputation of holistic massage therapy and treatments with a certified staff. Body therapy includes purifying and muscle-soothing body wraps, sinus and head clarifying treatments, chakra therapy and reflexology. Lighthouse Day Spa also offers refresher, clarifying and restorative facial skin therapies, nail care and body waxing.

Granlibakken offers a variety of Wellness packages including Blissful Retreat, a 60 minute sinus and head clarifying hot stone massage; Tahoe Sampler, a 30 minute massage, facial and bodywrap; Renewal, a 60 minute massage, facial, manicure and pedicure; Holistic Day Spa with Ayurveda, alternative medicine, consultation, chakra therapy and sinus and head clarifying or the
Holistic packages including Ayurveda health consultations are designed to create inner balance by providing insights into diet, herbs, aromatherapy, meditation and breathing techniques.

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