My husband and I recently took a 2 night getaway in the Poconos Mountains to The Lodge at Woodloch in Hawley, PA. The Lodge at Woodloch was recently named #3 Top Destination Spa in the World by Travel + Leisure magazine (July 2014) . Since I was quite happy with my short visit to their parent resort The Woodloch Pines, I was very much looking forward to this adult only retreat.

Upon arriving the entrance gate, we were warmly greeted by a friendly man who was “expecting us” as we gave him our name. From there, the service at The Lodge was flawless and very warm and inviting. Once we were directed to the covered bridge by the main entrance of their building, valet took our luggage and keys, brought them to our room and directed us to the front desk. As we walked up to the front desk, our sign in paperwork and welcome package (two tote bags and water bottles) was already there to greet us. It was a great start to see how this resort caters to everyone.

We had arrived mid day and the temperature outside was quite cold, 15 degrees, and snow covered much of their 150 acre property. We booked our spa treatment which was rather late to do. It is recommended to reserve your treatments and dining reservations before arrival. We also signed up for a 2 hour art class, pastel drawing,  and a Juicing Demonstration that required advanced sign up. Learned so much about juices and smoothies!

It was time for us to start relaxing in their Aqua Garden, which houses their indoor heated pool, 2 waterfall heated jacuzzis and an outdoor hot springs pool. Even in the cold temperatures, people were outside enjoying the hot springs. And if you didn’t want to soak in the pool or lounge in the chairs, there is an activity going on that will fit anyone. Each week and each day, the resort lists their many activities, speakers, classes and demonstrations they offer. If you are looking for adventure, creativity, culinary, a retreat for your mind and body, fitness or just pampering yourself, this resort offers it all for you. Here is a sample of their many activities. There are just a few classes and activities that require additional fees and all spa treatments require a fee, but everything else is included in your stay.

Our first night, the resort was offering a shuttle up the road to The Pines to view their nightly entertainment. The Pines is a family resort and we were quite entertained by the musical show and comedian that performed. Other nights, the Lodge offers art classes, nocturnal walks or you can just relax by the fire pit and enjoy some s’mores. Again, because of the very frigid temperatures while we were there we could not partake in the latter but they had a fire blazing every night for those who wanted to.

The first thing I always notice wherever I go is cleanliness. I tried and tried but no matter where I went; our room, the restaurant, the public spaces and bathrooms, the pools, the woman’s retreat(locker room), everything was extremely clean and well maintained. Everywhere you went the staff was also very friendly, warm and accommodating.

Our room was the Verandah Deluxe. A lovely, nice sized room with a view of the wooded front area. Their bathroom had a shower stall, private water closet and a two sink vanity. One of the sinks flowed filtered water. Every hotel should do this! Loved it. At first, I thought I was not going to enjoy sleeping because the bed seemed very hard. But it actually formed your body as you laid asleep and it made sleeping quite restful and comfortable.

Three meals a day are included in your stay. The menu didn’t change for breakfast or lunch but did vary for the two nights of dinner. I would venture to say that the menu is considered gourmet food with dishes you may either not normally see or arranged. It caters to the “healthy” choice and you will find lots of choices for vegetarians and vegans. Although I found the menus to be unique compared to the restaurants we frequent, I found them to be satisfying and enjoyable.

Besides the activities and classes that one can take, the biggest part of this resort is the Spa. I indulged in The Lodge Facial and enjoyed every second of my 50 minute treatment.  Here is a look of the many treatments they offer. Again from the moment you step into the spa to check in, you are pampered and brought into a state of relaxation and tranquility.

We met so many different groups that came to The Lodge for different reasons. We saw a couple get married, one was on their honeymoon, several on their babymoon. We saw couples like us who were just looking for some quiet time to get away and we saw lots of women who were there as a girls retreat or a mother/daughter bonding getaway. I walked away feeling pampered, relaxed, renewed, educated and creative. I highly recommend this resort all times of the year. I’m looking forward to another stay but next time will be in warmer weather.