By Renuka Christoph
Nestled away in the thick, quiet woods in a midwest town lies a hidden sanctuary, Sundara Inn and Spa. The destination spa, which means “beautiful” in Sanskrit is located in the resort town of Wisconsin Dells.
Sandara captures the essence of relaxation, offering unique body treatments in a luxurious setting. There are an array of massages, facials and treatments to select from, including the hot stone massage with stones from the Dells River. I began my spa experience with the Sundara’s proprietary Purifying Bath Ritual.
Each guest is provided with a scoop of Sundara Spa Sandstone Body Polish. I first exfoliated with the polish under the oversized rainfall shower head. The exfoliation pre- pares the skin for a body mist and the aroma steam room. Next, I took a cool rinse before going in the essential oil-enhanced hot pool with massaging jets. After this, I had to mentally prepare myself and then went for it – a plunge in what felt like an ice cold pool.
After this, I alternated between the hot and cold tubs to enhance circulation.
After the bath ritual, I went into the Relaxation Lounge, sitting in total silence in a heavy spa robe. I enjoyed a hot cup of tea and granola as I sat in awe in front of the giant glass windows, framing the treetops, outdoor pool and hot tub outside. The steam from the hot tub clashed against the cold winter air. I was immersed in total tranquility when my spa therapist arrived. She led me to one of the soft lit rooms where I would get the Radiant Glow Organic Facial.
The next 80 minutes was total bliss which included a neck, shoulder, face, scalp, arms, hands, & feet massage as well as hydration. The spa therapist used organic herbs and fruits including a strawberry rhubarb dermafoliant, se- rum and masque. The pro- duces are 100% organic product, made from fresh nuts, roots, flowers, fruits, and spices. The treatment consisted of cleansing, exfoliation with steam, extraction and two treatments masques. After the facial, I concluded my spa experience with a soak in the outdoor hot tub. It was perhaps the most defining moment of the tranquil experience as I had the entire haven to myself.
I was immersed in total bliss in a surreal scene, relaxing in an outdoor hot tub in the middle of a Wisconsin winter. The tree top silhouettes in the 26 acre pine forest were like shadows against the pink sky. The only noise to be heard was the rustling of leaves from a delicate wind. It felt as if I was whisked away atop the Swiss Alps. As I left the spa, heading back down the winding road toward the line of resorts and attractions, I felt a strong calm and inner strength from the spa experience.
Discover Family Fun at Kalahari
While at Wisconsin Dells, there are plenty of sites and attractions for all ages to enjoy. One sure winner for the whole family is the Kalahari Resort. The resort boasts as being the largest indoor waterpark. A recent addition to the park was Tufani Falls, consisting of the Sahara Sidewinders and the Screaming Hyena. A 65 foot vertical drop water slide is sure to please the thrill seekers.
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