Looking for a retreat in Pasadena?
My favorite spa outside of Pasadena is in Ojai at the Ojai Valley Inn and Spa. Closer to home, there’s the Huntington Spa in the prestigious Langham Hotel and Burke Williams in the heart of Old Town Pasadena.
Since I already tried the Huntington Spa, armed with an excuse and total commitment to the 365 Things In Pasadena™ facebook I booked myself for a relaxation massage at the Burke Williams day-spa.
I’ve heard of Burke Williams from many of my friends, but somehow never got around there. Also, since it’s tucked away on one of the many Old Town side streets, I just never saw it and with my busy schedule, didn’t take the time to look it up.
However, not to be deterred, yesterday was my relaxation day. My appointment was scheduled for 7:30 pm. There is no parking at the spa, so you have to build in the extra parking and walking time. Since it was Memorial Day, parking was easy and free and I arrived at the spa around 6:30 to enjoy the available facilities.
When I walked into the gracious lobby, I was first greeted by the fragrance of Heather and a concierge who kindly asked for my appointment time and had me sign in. He gave me the key to my locker and told me to go ahead and let myself in.
I thought it was a little strange not to be shown around the spa since it was my first time there. Giving him the benefit of the doubt, I did get a tour when I came in to make an appointment. However, Burke Williams is huge and at that time of night, not too many people were there to ask for directions. After a couple of wrong turns, I did find my way to the locker area to begin my journey.
The locker contained sandals and a plush, oversize robe. The changing area was nicely appointed and clean had all the necessary girl things – a variety of lotions, make up remover, pony tail bands, brushes and hair accessories, etc – and was quite nice.
I enjoyed the steam room and dry sauna and particularly loved their mist room which was very refreshing. The whirlpool spa was quite large and the overall ambiance was perfect. There were a couple of ladies there that were engaged in quite a lively conversation for the entire time I was there, ignoring all the “silence is appreciated” signs and the staff did not seem to want to address that.
There was fruit flavored water everywhere, lemonade and herbal tea in the waiting room. The selection of fruit was a bit miserly (a few sad looking red apples) and the only other thing that I would change would be to infuse the wet, iced towels with a refreshing scent.
About 10 minutes before my service, I made my way out to the waiting room. My therapist, Zoe, came out right on time and was very gracious. She asked all the right questions and it was clear that she wanted to ensure me having the best experience. I’ve had many massages in the past and would have to say that she was one of the best therapists I had.
Burke Williams has several membership options as well as a pay per service menu. Overall, it was a great experience and if you haven’t been there, definitely check it out.
39 Mills Place
Pasadena, CA 91105
626-440-0202
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