Nestled in the picturesque hills outside Galena, Illinois, Stonedrift Spa at Eagle Ridge Resort promises to be a delightful escape.
From the moment you step foot into Stonedrift Spa, you are enveloped in soothing aromas and calming melodies that instantly melt away your worries.
Friendly staff welcomes you into their state of the art property, which opened in 2022, completely reimagined. Thanks to their loyal following of clientele, the spa had outgrown its former location which resided in the same building as the resort.
If you’re looking for the perfect midwestern spa getaway, or are already planning to visit Stonedrift Spa, keep reading for what to expect during your blissful retreat.
Amenities at Stonedrift Spa
Before I delve into the services, I wanted to share the amenities that make your time at the spa an immersive retreat.
Arrive early so you have time to decompress before your first treatment. From the reception lobby, you’ll be escorted on a brief tour of the Relaxation Room and the Locker Room and left to settle into your robe and slippers.
Locker Rooms
Every sense is pampered at Stonedrift Spa. First those soothing scents and melodies and now the soft, plush robes to wrap yourself in! (Hang on, we have views and tastes coming up in the Relaxation Room.)
The Locker Rooms feature a Steam Room, Showers, Changing Rooms, Bathrooms, and well-stocked Vanities.
Guests choose their own locker and set a four digit combination. Inside the locker you’ll find your robe and slippers. (If you have small feet like I do, I suggest bringing your own sandals or slippers.)
Relaxation Room
Guests are encouraged to lounge in the Relaxation Room before, between, and after their services. Consider spacing out your treatments so you have some peaceful time in the Relaxation Room to rest or read.
Its panoramic windows overlook an idyllic hillside that heightened the ambiance. Looking out upon the tranquility of nature was calming. Natural furnishings of wood and stone extend this sensation throughout the spa.
Enjoy flavored water or lovely teas, pour a snack, and snuggle up under a cozy blanket on a wave lounger.
Jacuzzi Hot Tub
The Jacuzzi is quite new, so not everyone knows that as guests you’re able to access it in addition to the relaxation room at no charge. Ask at reception and they’ll show you to a staircase leading you to the Water Therapy room.
We had it to ourselves as well as the two wave loungers that share the space. Note to self, or my husband if he reads this: The wave lounger chairs are the ultimate in comfort. I must buy one for my home.
Wellness Store
Did you fall in love with one of the products used during your visit? Not to worry, it is available for purchase in lobby’s store. They offer many wellness inspired gifts as well. (Including the luxurious robes!)
Spa Services
On my visit to Stonedrift Spa I felt wonderfully pampered and polished by my Tranquil Day Away Spa Package. This included a 50 minute massage, 50 minute facial, and a pedicure.
As an add-on, I also booked a Detox Treatment as I’d grown increasingly curious about salt therapy.
The first thing I noticed about the treatment rooms was the stunning and spacious vaulted ceilings. The space felt intimate without feeling cramped.
Every treatment I had was personalized to my goals and preferences. My stressors melted away within minutes of my massage and my facial left me glowing.
My 45 minute detox session was an embraced new experience. I’ll admit I had no idea what I was getting myself into, but I left breathing easier (after a couple weeks of congestion) and feeling energized.
I was cautious about the sauna like conditions of the halotherapy unit, as I usually cannot take the heat, but the temperature is kept cooler than a traditional sauna. My treatment stayed between 99-104 degrees. Once, I needed to step out to drink some water and cool down, so it was nice to have a private room to do so.
Small pieces of salt are infused in the air. If you bring a book, you might notice it feels like fine grains of sand have settled on the pages. Consider wearing a dry bathing suit or a towel for the treatment.
My spa experience only scratched the surface of Stonedrift Spa’s offerings. While I enjoyed one of their most popular packages, they feature personalized treatments from hydrafacials, to body wraps, to therapeutic Vichy showers.
For a full menu of Spa Services and pricing visit the Stonedrift Spa website. If you’re visiting with a group, inquire about the Stonedrift Spa Bridal Suite; a dedicated space in the loft for parties.
I struggled to turn in my robe at the completion of my services, but I have the memories of that blissful day painted in my memory.
In exchange for documenting my experience with honesty and transparency, Eagle Ridge Resort hosted me.
Planning your Visit to Stonedrift Spa
Here are a few suggestions to make your visit most enjoyable:
- Consider the order of your services. A facial should be after a massage so that you don’t lay into a face cradle and wipe away all the wonderful products.
- Bring a swimsuit for the jacuzzi, a scrunchie, change of clothes, and sandals if you have small feet. The one size sandals were difficult for me to walk in as a size 6.5.
- If you use the jacuzzi, it is suggested to do so before your massage, hair, or nail services.
- The Spa is across the street from the resort so you may choose to walk. You can also arrange for shuttle service between the spa, resort, and Highlands Restaurant (in Pro Shop Building).
- Call ahead to make an appointment. Unless you get lucky and catch a cancellation, appointments book out far in advance.
Health Benefits of a Visit to Stonedrift Spa
Here are nine health benefits of indulging in a Stonedrift Spa retreat:
- The soothing ambiance, calming treatments, and peaceful atmosphere provide a tranquil environment away from daily responsibilities, allowing you to unwind and release stress.
- A massage or facial will relieve muscle tension, ease aches, and promote physical relaxation. Skilled therapists stimulate circulation, reduce inflammation, and restore balance to your body.
- Disconnect from the demands of daily life and focus on self-care. Give yourself an opportunity to clear your mind, recharge, and gain mental clarity, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
- Spa treatments and therapies help promote better sleep. Massage, in particular, encourages relaxation and stimulates the release of endorphins, which can improve sleep quality and alleviate insomnia.
- Treatments, such as body wraps, steam rooms, saunas (including halotherapy), help cleanse the skin, eliminate toxins, and support the body’s natural detoxification processes.
- Spa retreats often offer a range of treatments focused on enhancing your natural beauty and improving skin health. Facials, exfoliation, and rejuvenating skin treatments leave your skin glowing, nourished, and revitalized.
- Taking time for self-care and pampering can boost self-esteem and increase self-confidence. The physical and mental benefits of spa treatments contribute to a positive self-image and a sense of well-being.
- Improved circulation: Spa treatments, particularly massages, help improve blood circulation throughout the body. Better circulation promotes the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the cells, aiding in tissue repair, reducing inflammation, and enhancing overall health.
- Conversing with your spa therapist will leave you with expanded knowledge on healthy lifestyle choices, stress management, nutrition, and relaxation techniques that can be incorporated into your daily life for long-term well-being.
Stay at the Eagle Ridge Resort
Between the four award-winning golf courses, the spa, and onsite dining at the Eagle Ridge Resort, this was the perfect (kid-free) getaway for my husband and I to unwind and recharge for a weekend with two of our friends.
Exploring Galena, Illinois
If it is your first time in the area, make sure you give yourself a few hours to explore historic Galena.
As you arrive downtown, you are immediately captivated by the town’s enchanting atmosphere. The main street, lined with elegant brick buildings, invites you to take a leisurely stroll and discover its many hidden gems. From quaint boutiques and art galleries to antique shops and cozy cafes, there is something for every taste and interest.
Driving to Stonedrift Spa
Conveniently located to a number of key cities in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois, a trip to Stonedrift Spa can be made in a single day or as a well deserved weekend retreat.
From Dubuque: 35 minutes
From Cedar Rapids: 1 hour 50 minutes
From Madison: 1 hour 50 minutes
From Milwaukee: 2 hours 50 minutes
From Chicago: 2 hours 45 minutes
Closing Thoughts on Stonedrift Spa at Eagle Ridge Resort
My weekend visit to Galena was a delightful escape filled with exploration, relaxation, and a touch of nostalgia.
As you bid farewell to Galena, you too will carry cherished memories of a weekend spent in a place where history, natural beauty, and small-town charm converge.
Eagle Ridge Resort’s timeless allure and warm hospitality have left an indelible mark, and I’m already longing for a return visit.
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This place looks soo cozy! Could definitely spend some time here relaxing.
Stonedrift Spa at Eagle Ridge Resort seems to be an excellent place to relax and enjoy treatments provided. Thanks for detailed information and many useful tips!
The Tranquil Day Away treatment sounds heavenly! What a lovely way to spend the day.
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