Set in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, The Spa at Leola Village at The Inn at Leola Village is an escape from the city (it’s an hour from Philadelphia, 1.5 hours from Baltimore and 2.5 hours from New York City). The 3,500-square-foot spa at the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star hotel in Lancaster County blends lavish Tuscan-style fabrics and furnishings with rustic Amish accents and antiques, transforming the buildings of this former 1800s tobacco farm into a relaxing Italian-inspired retreat.
The marriage of these two cultures is apparent everywhere you look — wide planks of distressed wood compose the reception desk and doors throughout, metal fixtures hand-forged by local Amish tradesmen complement the space, and deep shades of reds and oranges provide the backdrop to an eclectic mixture of Italian-themed artwork, some of which are by area artists.
The marriage of these two cultures is apparent everywhere you look — wide planks of distressed wood compose the reception desk and doors throughout, metal fixtures hand-forged by local Amish tradesmen complement the space, and deep shades of reds and oranges provide the backdrop to an eclectic mixture of Italian-themed artwork, some of which are by area artists.
Our Inspector's Highlights
- The full-service salon sits at the front of the spa behind a wall of glass doors designed to isolate the scents and sounds associated with hair maintenance from the peaceful tranquility of the treatment rooms.
- Not only is the Leola spa a destination for a romantic weekend of pampered luxury or a girls getaway, but it’s also great for weddings. With two shampoo chairs and four styling stations, the salon can accommodate groups and bridal parties with ease.
- Even if you aren’t getting married, you’ll want to stop in for the Marcia Teixeira keratin service, which repairs damaged hair without relying on harsh chemicals, leaving locks soft, shiny and frizz-free for three to five months.
- Head to the makeup room for services ranging from everyday applications to airbrush makeup for special occasions. The eco-conscious spa uses all-natural, mineral-based cosmetics that are safe for all guests, including expectant women.
- Men aren’t left out of the spa-time indulgences: The Art of Shaving experience includes aromatherapy treatments designed specifically for their skin. The popular Royal Shave begins with a hot towel and a facial massage with pre-shave oil and is followed by a warm shaving cream application and a straight-edged razor shave.
Things to Know
- The Pennsylvania spa sees an equal share of inn guests and locals, so we recommend scheduling your preferred treatments well in advance.
- To ensure that you get the ultimate spa experience, try to arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled treatment.
- If you no longer seek total relaxation, you must alert the spa at least 8 hours in advance.
- A 20 percent gratuity is automatically applied to spa services.
The Treatments
- The most popular spa package is the Petite Day deal. Start with a 50-minute Classic Massage followed by a 50-minute Classic Facial and Spa Ritual manicure and pedicure. Then choose a delicious lunch from the spa dining menu to finish off your day of pampering.
- Each massage is customized and uses a personalized blend of pure plant and flower oils.
- Among other services are spray tans, Gel FX manicures featuring Orly lacquers (cured via LED light rather than harsh UV lighting) and organic SpaRitual manicures and pedicures with products that are both organic and vegan.
- The Lancaster spa also offers exfoliating body scrubs and detoxifying seaweed wraps.
- Mud therapy body masks make use of the Vichy shower. After your treatment, remain on the cushioned table while your therapist positions a metal arm over your body to allow streams from five rainwater showerheads to gently rinse away the salt or mud.
The Facilities
- The décor of the spa’s locker rooms reiterate the Tuscan influences on the interior design of the inn through a combination of textures that includes wood, stone and ceramic tile.
- The men’s locker room having the added masculine accent of an oversized leather easy chair.
- You’ll see the Italian countryside aesthetic throughout the six treatment rooms — tan walls, plush white blankets on the massage tables, stone tiles in muted shades of browns and grays, and benches upholstered in fabrics shaded in deep, warm colors.
- In between services, relax in the luxury spa’s tea room, where complimentary herbal tea, coffee, fruit-infused water and wine are served. Snack on fresh fruit and cheese or enjoy a lunch of Italian fare from Osteria Avanti, the onsite restaurant.
Getting There
