Highlands North Carolina Spa Recognized As One Of US’s 10 Best

Looking for that perfect relaxing spa day? I know I just had one and am already craving another day, where the biggest stressor is whether to get in a pool or a hot tub between spa treatments. There are so many luxurious spas in North Carolina so when I saw that USA Today had released their 10 best spas I had a feeling I'd find a North Carolina relaxation spot on my list. And I did! Though in all honesty, it wasn't the one I would have guessed. My first thought was that Asheville's Grove Park Inn would make the list. Instead, it was another mountain spa. Highlands North Carolina is home to the Old Edwards Inn & Spa which ranked 9th on the USA Today list.

This southern Blue Ridge Mountains Spa self describes as "pure bliss" and "European elegance". Amenities include saunas, whirlpools, steam rooms, nail and hair services, a spa cafe, a fireside lounge, and more. Treatments offered include facial and body treatments or immersive bath rituals. Relax with a 50, 80, or 110-minute massage featuring therapies from across the globe. Or enhance that look with a nail, hair of makeup treatment. All in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. You'll want to make the most of your time at the Old Edwards Inn by staying overnight and dining in the beloved restaurant. But no visit to this Highlands North Carolina Inn is complete without a relaxing day at the spa.

Other Spas that made the USA 10 Best list were in states such as Illinois, California, and Florida. The best of the best? The Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes in Orlando, Florida. I can't say Orlando is the destination I think of when I think of relaxing. But perhaps I'll get the chance to try this out sometime.

USA Today's 10 rankings are voted on in a variety of categories monthly. Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. From there 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Then USA Today readers can vote once per category, per day. And the top 10 become the "10 best". You can view the full list here.

Are the stresses of work and life weighing on you? Perhaps you're looking for a relaxing way to celebrate a special occasion. Or maybe you're just in a "treat yourself" phase. (How do I convince myself to end the treat yourself phase that I can't afford? Asking for a friend). Whatever your reasoning, I bet you can come up with an excuse for a spa day or weekend. And lucky for you North Carolina is home to some fabulous top-tier spas. Whether you are looking for a spa day, staycation, or a weekend getaway there are perfect spas in North Carolina to choose from. That's the hard part, choosing just one.

So while I can't make the decision for you, I can't even make decisions for myself, I can do some of the work for you. So I've compiled a list of 9 of the most relaxing and luxurious spas in North Carolina for you to choose from. Because you deserve it. Spas on the list include urban oasis, tranquil mountain getaways, resorts with golf, spas, and more to offer, and more. And you have to make a day of it. Not just your massage or facial, you want a destination you can take advantage of everything. Most of these destinations offer access to pools, whirlpools, saunas, fitness centers, and restaurants/bars.

So get to reading, then dreaming, and then planning your ultimate spa weekend. I may have to do the same (anyone want to foot the bill for that?). The list includes one spa I've personally visited, one I do have a trip planned to for a friend's birthday and one that is a dream of mine to experience. Did I miss one you love? Let me know! If you need me I'll be mentally relaxing, drinking prosecco, and enjoying a spa hot tub.

Location: Charlotte

Conveniently located in the Ballantyne Hotel in South Charlotte the Spa at Ballantyne describes itself as a "Destination Day Spa for Wellness & Relaxation." Their menu offers a selection of spa services including massage, facials, body treatments, manicures, pedicures, and hair salon services. Day guests will also receive access to fitness centers, pools, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, spa dining, and lounges.

Spa At Ballantyne 

Location: Asheville

If it's at Biltmore you know it's going to be elegant and luxurious. The Spa is located at the Inn on Biltmore Estate, the Estate's first and premier hotel. The spa prides itself on being a reflection of the "Biltmore legacy of world-class hospitality and attention to detail." Services are open to overnight guests of The Inn, Village Hotel, or Cottages on Biltmore Estate, as well as to Biltmore Annual Passholders.

The Spa at The Inn on Biltmore Estate

Location: Blowing Rock

The Spa at Chetola opened in 2009 and reflects its mountain surroundings. The spa consists of a relaxation room, five treatment rooms (one for couples), a nail treatment area and hair salon, the Swan Bar, and women’s and men’s locker rooms. Spa guests also receive access to the resort's heated indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, and state-of-the-art fitness room.

The Spa at Chetola Resort

Location: Pittsboro, NC

Nested in the town of Pittsboro is Fearrington Village the perfect destination for a weekend of relaxation or just a day trip. The spa offers massages, facials, as well as nail appointments.

The Spa at Fearrington Village

Location: Greensboro

Bring your man and let him golf while you enjoy the relaxing spa at Grandover. The goal of the experience is "tranquility".The services menu features a selection of massages, facials, and body & nail treatments for both individuals and couples. Spa guests also receive access to the indoor/outdoor pools at the resort.

The Spa at Grandover

Location: Asheville

And this is the one at the top of my spa bucket list. This historic Asheville resort is home to a 43,000 square foot subterranean spa featuring rock walls and tunnels, water features, pools, and a mountain-view hot tub. There are of course the incredible spa treatments as well.

Omni Grove Park Inn

Location: Pinehust

The Spa at Pinehurst, a popular golf destination, features a relaxing environment. Guests enjoy access to the sauna, steam room, whirlpools, as well as a tranquility room.

The Spa at Pinehurst

Location: Charlotte

Unlike most of the others on this list, the Ritz Carlton Charlotte Spa is an urban escape where guests can find "stillness". While in a vibrant location, it still offers ample opportunity to relax in one of 5 treatment rooms, lounges, pool, whirlpool, and an "aqua lounge".

The Ritz Carlton Charlotte Spa

Location: Cary

The newly rennovated Umstead spa is now even better. It's a "haven of wellness and tranquility " for guests.

The Umstead Spa