Canyon Ranch Spa – Las Vegas They had us at daily hot stone massages. Wellness, the catch-all term for spa pampering and mental and physical care, is big business these days, and well-known luxury spas such as Canyon Ranch, Miraval, and Red Mountain Spa are beginning to target two of consumers’ biggest obsessions: health and real estate.
The result? Communities clearly aimed at second home buyers and urban pied-à-terre seekers, that count daily massages, in-home power flow yoga and guided hikes just steps from the front door among the amenities. Big players in the spa world are now building communities that allow health and beauty devotees to own a piece of their favorite retreats, betting that wellness is more than just a week-long vacation concept.
Most spa resorts allow owners to access the majority of the on-site facilities for free, and to enjoy spa services and dining programs for discounted fees. Here’s a look at wellness communities currently in the works from three spa resorts.
For Sunny Relaxation
Canyon Ranch Living -MiamiCanyon Ranch Living – Miami, Florida
Canyon Ranch, possibly the most famous luxury wellness resort in the country, has expanded into real estate with a deluxe spa community set directly on Miami Beach. Though the condominium residences feature professional-caliber kitchens (for cooking healthy gourmet meals, naturally), residents may instead choose to visit one of five dining venues on the premises. A 70,000-square-foot spa and fitness center will offer 22 treatment rooms, exercise equipment, pools, a rock-climbing wall, and yoga and pilates classes. Canyon Ranch Living in Miami is set to open in 2008 and the remaining residences range from $1 million to $5 million.
Another option is in the works from Miraval, the celebrity-loved spa (Oprah has featured it on her show) that makes moguls swoon too. In fact, AOL co-founder Steve Case was so sold on the resort that he made a hefty investment in Miraval that has helped spur its expanse into real estate. The Villas at Miraval, a collection of whole ownership homes in Tucson. Ariz. allows owners to access all the perks of a stay at the resort, from the requisite yoga and Pilates classes to programs that aim to change your metabolism, refine time management skills or even just help conquer a fear of heights. The first homes have been sold at prices starting at around $1.7 million and the resort is taking reservations for 16 additional properties. Don’t dig the desert? Miraval is expanding their living well concept to stressed out New Yorkers with a condominium project on the upper east side of Manhattan.
For Big City Pampering
Canyon Ranch Living – Chicago, Illinois
Chicago’s 67-story glass high-rise will be home to the Restaurant at Canyon Ranch, a five-star hotel, and 257 lavish residential condominiums. A 75,000-square-foot spa and fitness center will offer cutting edge wellness treatments and healthy lifestyle support. Despite the serene interior space, the residences are steps away from Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, a haven of luxury shopping and numerous cultural attractions. Canyon Ranch Living, Chicago is slated to open in 2011. Residences range from $810,000 to more than $4 million.
For Natural Serenity
Residences at Red Mountain Residences at Red Mountain – Ivins, Utah
The modern adobe villas on the grounds of Red Mountain Spa offer awe-inspiring views of red rock mountains and lava beds. Though set in calm and quiet surroundings, owners will have plenty to do between discounted spa services (many of which are influenced by Native American rituals and local geology), ample hiking and biking, a full fitness center and class schedule, multiple pools, and tennis. A daily inclusive vacation package, including three healthy gourmet meals, is available to owners for a reduced rate. Twelve villas have already been sold and 12 new two-bedroom villas are currently being built surrounding a courtyard with a pool and hot tub. Units start at $554,900.
