TRAVEL
The Lodge at Woodlach I
By Jennifer Pelaez
n just under 3 hours from Manhattan, escape to the northern corner of the Pocono Mountains, where serenity and natural beauty await at the Lodge at Woodloch in Hawley, Pennsylvania. This lakeside all-inclusive destination spa amid 150 acres of rolling woodlands, gardens, docks and waterscapes, offers an extraordinary respite for the mind, body and spirit. Upon entering into the plant-filled Garden Hall, which has a 14-foot glass cupola and a balcony looking onto the lake, you immediately feel a sense of tranquility and oneness with the idyllic surroundings. Floor-to-ceiling windows and decor in shades of pine, stone, bark and merlot, complement the region’s seasonal grandeur, and invite you to embrace the Great Outdoors. Whether lazing around a cozy fireplace in one of the plush lounge areas, or indulging in a personalized spa experience, every day is a fresh awakening and an opportunity to take advantage of the resorts numerous activities. Peruse through the daily activities calendar which are regularly updated and sure to please every possible interest. Embark on a journey of healing and body awareness with yoga, pilates, meditation, rolling or posture and balancing classes, or improve your physique with cardio, core, and body sculpting classes that will leave you feeling accomplished
76 • Resident August 2014
If the myriad of day activities have you feeling sore and over-exerted, rejuvenate yourself in the therapeutic soaking pools of the Aqua Garden or luxuriate at the outdoor horizon-edge whirlpool complete with deck and loungers. Head over to the impressive 40,000-square-foot spa with 27 treatment rooms to re-balance and pamper yourself from head to toe including a 100 minute chakra massage that improves through energy healing.
and fit. Embrace nature with a Garden Walk, hike, bike ride, or jog on one of the well-maintained property trails. Those looking to explore their more creative side can opt to spend a few hours in the art studio, where painting, drawing and photography are also offered. Other outdoor activities not to be missing range from fly fishing and kayaking on the private 15-acre lake, as well as gastronomy classes such as cooking demos and wine tastings. In the evenings, self-help experts ranging from relationship gurus to psychics host informal fireside chats for information seekers and those interested in self awareness.
Afterwards, reward yourself with a healthy gourmet meal at the intimate Tree dining room, enclosed in glass and wood that brings the outdoors inside. The diverse spa menu features healthy dining using naturally-raised meats and fish as well as organic, locally grown vegetables, including those from the resort’s farm-to-table garden. Whether you re-discovered your passions, uncovered new hobbies, focused on self discovery, or simply decompressed from everyday stressors, there is no doubt The Lodge at Woodloch will leave you feeling reinvigorated and will continue to benefit you long after you leave. For more information: thelodgeatwoodlach.com