Serenity at the Sanctuary — The Spa

As The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort has matured into one of the world's finest hotels, its spa has blossomed into one of the top reasons why people visit the barrier island.

"We've enjoyed a fabulous response to our services, amenities and therapists," says Spa Director Robin Jones.

For 2006/07, The Spa has introduced several new treatments, including the Carolina Cloud Nine. This treatment starts with an invigorating full-body exfoliation and luxurious thermal steam. A rain shower rinse leads to an application of moisturizers for soft and silky skin. It is finished with a nurturing hand-and-foot massage. Guests can choose from the Mandarin Orange Scrub, with essences of orange, apricot, walnuts and almonds or the Papaya Pineapple Scrub, which is for more sensitive skin.

"We have also introduced three new 'radiant' wraps," says Jones. "These wraps blend essential oils and other active ingredients to nourish, soothe and invigorate overexposed skin and tired muscles while relieving mental fatigue."

The wraps are:

• Pain Aid: Soothe and de-stress with a blend of arnica oil and relief balm, which is generously applied to the body to penetrate and soothe sore muscles and joints.
• Rescue Relief: Nourish, hydrate and calm overexposed, sensitive skin with a blend of lavender and aloe. It is a perfect treatment for sunburned or dehydrated skin.
• Frequent Flyer: Erase travel fatigue and water retention with an invigorating wrap that combines peppermint and grapefruit oils.

As part of its commitment to stay on the cutting edge of spa services, The Sanctuary has also begun offering Thai Massage, which is uplifting and energizing to both the mind and body.

Thai massage combines yoga postures, stretching, compression and pressure points. The massage helps the body release toxins and tension, increase flexibility and decrease stress. This interactive service is conducted on a mat, fully clothed and with no oils.

The Spa at The Sanctuary was designed to elicit the feel of a grand Southern porch and garden through the use of a rich tableau of Charleston brick, trickling water, native plants, garden-style lighting and classic chaise lounges found in the relaxation areas. The treatments are inspired by nature, incorporating the balancing properties of the ocean, maritime forest and South Carolina's botanical gardens.

Combined with service grounded in Southern hospitality, The Spa presents a variety of services, including massages, facials and salon treatments. The Spa was the first in the country to offer Body Wraptures, which are warm, grain- and herb-filled wraps. The Body Wraptures are used specifically during the Signature Massage, a unique massage experience designed for the deepest, soothing comfort. During the massage, the wraps are placed on key tension areas and major muscle groups to induce deep relaxation and increase the therapeutic benefits of the therapist's massage strokes. The remarkable results are relief of muscle tension, increased circulation and a relaxed nurtured feeling.

The Spa's interior features 12 spacious massage, facial, and body treatment rooms styled as personal havens with hardwood floors, shuttered windows, original artwork and therapeutic color schemes. The Spa's special private treatment suite accommodates two people and is ideal for couples, friends, mothers and daughters or as a VIP retreat. The suite also features two treatment tables, a relaxation area, a Riverbath Whirlpool, as well as a private bath and shower. Adjoining the suite, the Thermal M Room incorporates steam and a refreshing rain shower in a capsule for total warmth and privacy.

The Sanctuary's signature line, skin, body and hair care products, along with candles and spa wear are available for purchase in the spa boutique. Spacious lounges, provided for men and women, come complete with showers, individual lockers, private vanity and dressing areas, steam rooms, saunas and a vitality mineral water whirlpool for relaxing. The Spa also features private men's and women's solariums where guests can read, relax and sip fruit-infused water and teas between or after treatments.

Additionally, a full-service salon featuring hair services, manicures and pedicures is located in The Spa. Guests do not have to have a spa treatment to visit the salon. The hotel's fitness center, which is available for hotel guests, is located on the first floor, offers a 65-foot-long indoor pool, a special studio for yoga, pilates, tai chi and other wellness programs, as well as a complete fitness center with equipment featuring personal viewing screens. A variety of exercise classes and personal training are available.

Hours are subject to change.
Call ext. 86299 for The Spa's front desk or (843) 768-6299.

Visit The Sanctuary online.

Look for Connoisseur: The Magazine of Kiawah Island Golf Resort in your guest room.

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