 San Francisco ModernClean lines and independent spirit define the City's newest additions to the spa scene. San Franciscans enjoy life. And why shouldn't they? The air is breathtakingly fresh, great food awaits at every turn and lively conversation appears to be essential to existence. And much as the city has modernized only with great care to preserve the past, its newest spas embrace the clean lines of 21st century aesthetics without forsaking the essence of spa culture and tradition. A similar vibe on an even smaller scale pervades Spa Vitale, a three-treatment-room retreat within the recently opened Hotel Vitale. Dreamily located on the waterfront, and just a stone's throw away from the revived Ferry Building, Marketplace, the property instills a sense of spa throughout. Even the hotel room door plaques sport a sprig of lavender. Sign up for a Bathing Ritual before any massage, and a toasty warm bath is drawn for you outside on a small terrace protected from nearby office buildings by planters of tall bamboo. I had no trouble settling into the infinity-edge tub, its waters slightly creamy with tangerine milk bath. On its edge, a comforting collection of ginger tea, water, a chilled washcloth, cucumber slices for my eyes and a pretty bell to ring if I needed anything transformed the unusual setting into a delightful oasis. Next, I was off to one of the treatment rooms, all of which have floor-to-ceiling windows that let natural light spill in. (To my mind, there is little that enhances a treatment room more than the pure energy of sunlight). My therapist honored me with a terrific 50-minute rubdown, simply called Massage, that she began with some eloquent work on my feet. Spa-goers not staying at the hotel would be well-advised to wear comfortable clothing, as there are no lockers or locker rooms, only a small changing room and a tote bag for your folded clothes. |
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