The Claremont Hotel Club and Spa in Berkeley, California, offers a luxurious retreat for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Recognized by prestigious publications like Elle and National Geographic Traveler as one of the top spas in the US, the Spa Claremont provides a sanctuary from the everyday. This review details a personal experience of a blissful afternoon spent indulging in the spa’s amenities and treatments.
Arriving at the historic Claremont Hotel, the grandeur of the property is immediately apparent. The expansive lobby, reportedly the largest on the West Coast, showcases a captivating gallery of historical photos, setting the stage for a journey back in time. Before even entering the spa, the hotel itself offers a captivating experience.
The Spa Claremont, located on the lower levels of the hotel, provides a tranquil escape. Upon check-in, guests are provided with spa robes, slippers, and a key to a personal locker. The pre-spa experience begins with a unique shower experience featuring a multitude of shower heads for a truly invigorating cleanse.
Following the shower, the Spa Claremont’s whirlpool beckons. This above-ground whirlpool requires a short climb before descending into its soothing waters. While the spa literature mentions a San Francisco skyline view, the more prominent vista is of the lush palm trees surrounding the hotel. However, glimpses of the Golden Gate Bridge can be caught between the trees.
The pre-spa journey continues with a visit to the impressive steam room, enveloped in a thick, cleansing mist. A refreshing ice water dispenser conveniently located outside provides a welcome cool-down. Multiple trips to the steam room, showers, and whirlpool complete the pre-spa ritual.
After the pre-spa preparations, a 50-minute therapeutic massage awaits in a quiet, serene room. The massage seamlessly blends techniques like Hawaiian lomi-lomi, inducing a state of deep relaxation.
The pampering continues with a spa pedicure in a bright, sunny room. A vibrant nail color selection and a pulsating massage chair enhance the experience. While enjoying the foot bath, even the captivating prose of Paul Theroux’s The Last Train to Zona Verde couldn’t compete with the blissful ambiance of the Spa Claremont.
The final touch is a French manicure, complete with a warm paraffin treatment. After four hours of pure indulgence, leaving the Claremont Hotel Club and Spa is a reluctant farewell. The experience provides a much-needed respite and a reminder to prioritize self-care. The Spa Claremont at the Claremont Hotel Club and Spa in Berkeley truly delivers a luxurious and rejuvenating escape.
Claremont Hotel Club and Spa Berkeley: Location and Contact Information
The Claremont Hotel Club & Spa is located at 41 Tunnel Road, Berkeley, California, 94705. For hotel reservations, call (510) 843-3000. To book spa treatments, call (800) 551-7266 extension 2. Visit the Claremont Resort website for special offers and packages: http://www.claremontresort.com. Advance reservations are required for childcare services. Contact the spa to inquire about extended pre-spa time availability on certain days.