Business reviews by user
1 Reviews by WestsideKaren
Copperhood Spa Retreat
Bravo Copperhood!
February 15, 2007
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83 of 151 people found this review helpful
For my birthday in January, my partner asked me, "Where in the world would you like to spend your birthday?" and without hesitation I answered, "The Copperhood Inn and Spa in Shandanken, New York."
I had been there a few times over the last few years and wanted him to experience the beauty and charm that is Copperhood that I always came home and raved about.
We arrived late afternoon on a Friday and were warmly greeted by Elizabeth. I was pleasantly surprised to see all the renovations that she had done to the place. The reception area was now warmed by a fireplace, and a beautifully decorated Christmas tree stood near a plush couch. Nearby a coffee table had a lovely bowl of fresh fruit and the server had a variety of teas, juices, water and coffee that were available whenever one needed a quick pick-me-up.
Her assistant Radek, immediately took our bags and showed us to our suite which was private, immaculate, and had a glorious view of Mount Sheridan. It was just as I remembered. Also as part of Copperhood is a small island visible outside our window. Surrounding the small island is a lovely rolling stream and on the island is the small barn where Elizabeth's goat and sheep graze freely. (A site I so appreciate coming from Manhattan.)
I rested awhile and then decided to take the late afternoon yoga class. Not being in tip-top shape, the class was geared to low impact and I found it just right for me being in the shape that I am in. No pressure, just relaxing with lots of breathing in of clean air and a view of the rolling stream as you worked out. (Again unlike Manhattan.)
I always look forward to the meals at Copperhood as they are homemade, nutritious and very tasty. The vegetable soups are delicious and served with my favorite, the homemade bread. What I enjoy most about the food at this spa is that you are served real food and real coffee made from a French press at your table. At Copperhood you're not served meager little portions of non-tasty foods that other spas are famous for. The entrees, whether chicken or fish, are always cooked to perfection and not overly saucy. And, after dinner, always fresh fruit and berries or if you're not on a diet, a wonderful homemade dessert.
When I woke up the next morning, I was happy to go out on my terrace and breath the clean beautiful air. As it was winter, the grounds were not brimming with lush green foliage as they were on a prior visit in the spring, but it was still glorious to see the tree-lined mountains and the rushing water of the rolling stream. I remember when I was here last the snow was steep and I had a wonderful time snowshoeing around the island with a group of other guests.
One of the highpoints of our stay was the hike up Mount Garfield. This is a somewhat challenging hike but I managed to stay with the group and make it to the top of the mountain. Once I reached the top, Elizabeth handed me a small stone and said, "Make a wish and place this stone on top of this mound of stones where other guests have placed their stones and made their wishes." My wish was that I made it down the mountain without a hitch, a stumble or fall, or better yet, that my shoes stayed intact. Last time I attempted Mount Garfield, my hiking boots fell apart but was able to get down the mountain on sheer determination and a faulty boot. All in all, the hike was one that I will always remember and even can laugh about to this day.
Once I got down the mountain, I said to myself, "Good food, beautiful surroundings, what more could I ask for?" Massages and pampering, of course.
My partner and I had massages scheduled. On Saturday, I got the European Body Treatment (which I think is the best deal for the money) and on Sunday, I also experienced a hot stone massage where I almost melted (in a good way, of course). I had two expert and very professional masseuses. By the time I got off the table, I felt like a noodle and was totally relaxed. In my book, the mark of a successful massage.
On the day we were to leave, we were asked if we were interested in a water aerobics class. I, of course, said yes. The pool was warm and clean and the class was fun and invigorating. (I think I even broke a real sweat.) I left the pool and immediately got into the hot tub where I unwound and finished my stay until it was time to leave.
If you're looking for a scene...not for you... If you're looking for action...definitely not for you. If you're looking for a tension-free, relaxing, no-stress atmosphere, where you are well taken care of and pampered...this is definitely for you! Whether you come with a spouse, significant other or with a friend, this is a sure bet, a real find, and a winner! I have to say that I especially enjoy the privacy of the place when it is not too busy. I feel especially lucky if we're among the only ones there. It's like having a private spa all to ourselves and how often can one say that?
We left New York wound "tighter than a drum" and thanks to our trip to Copperhood Inn and Spa, we turned ourselves back into stress- and tension-free humans.
And a special shout out to praise the housekeeping staff. I found them to be most helpful and they made sure all our needs were met and our rooms were kept spotless.
Thank you to Elizabeth and the entire staff of the Copperhood Inn and Spa in helping make our trip a truly memorable one. We will be returning soon.
I would visit this business again? Yes