With all the craziness happening in my life right now, I decided that before things got even more hectic, MM and I should take 24 hours to zen out and get away from all the items on our ever-growing to-do list. Timed with MM’s grad school graduation and birthday, I planned a surprise trip for us a quick two hours outside of NYC.
The city can feel overwhelming and a bit suffocating at times, but the good news is you don’t have to travel far to feel a world away. We jumped in our car and headed to The Lodge at Woodloch in the Poconos. I had gone a couple of years ago with my mom (recap) and I’ve been waiting for an occasion to go back.
The Lodge is a peaceful spa set by a lake, surrounded by trees and fortunately for us, warm weather and blue skies. For overnight guests, meals, spa & fitness center access and a long list of activities are included.
After checking in we headed to The Tree for lunch. I got the edamame dumplings and MM got the crab sandwich. The menu has a selection of healthy spa-like and heartier more indulgent dishes, plus a stocked salad bar.
Next up, we had some down time as we prepped for our massages. Down time at the spa can be spent in a variety of ways: wondering around the property on the nearby trails, taking a cooking class, trying a class at the fitness center, hanging in the outdoor or indoor hot tub or swimming in the indoor pool.
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We took a quick stroll to check out the on-site garden that the restaurant sources from and loved that it was open for guests to explore.
And then it was spa time! Our massages were both excellent, one of the best and most relaxing I’ve ever had. Afterwards we enjoyed a glass of wine by the fire pit.
The next morning we enjoyed a leisurely breakfast before heading back to the city.
Have you ever spent time at an overnight spa? I’m used to the go-go-go mindset and even at the spa, I was like, ok what’s next on the agenda? The answer is nothing! The spa is for relaxing, enjoying the open hours and not worrying about what is happening next. Bonus points for it being acceptable to walk around in your robe. Even after just 24 hours at The Lodge, my mind felt a little more at ease.
If you are ever feeling like I was, like you need to hit the reset button, look into a quickie spa getaway. Even one night away will change your outlook and mood. I recommend finding a place no more than 2 hours away so the travel time doesn’t cut into your relaxation time. If The Lodge at Woodloch is in that two-hour window, I can’t recommend it enough.
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A huge thank you to The Lodge at Woodloch for welcoming us for the night!
