Business, Government Legal News from throughout WVBerkeley Springs Spa Feast lets visitors sample the joys of massage, relaxation

Berkeley Springs Spa Feast lets visitors sample the joys of massage, relaxation

By MISTY HIGGINS

For The State Journal

BERKELEY SPRINGS — For more than 250 years, visitors to Berkeley Springs have soaked in the warm mineral waters that still flow through the heart of the town.

The town is considered the present-day spa capital of the state and has been long regarded as a centuries-old health resort. Berkeley Springs boasts three times as many massage therapist as lawyers and continues its legacy as America's first spa while claiming its current place among the premier spa towns of the 21st century.

The 22nd annual Spa Feast will take place from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Jan. 28 at the Ice House and include a daylong sampling of bodywork and health-enhancing treatments, as well as related products.  Jeanne Mozier of Travel Berkeley Springs said admission for the event is $2 and includes all lectures.  Treatments will be priced at $1 a minute.

"People can come in and just get a sample.  It's a great way to try things that you might not normally try," she added.

The fair, which typically draws more than 250 visitors, showcases an array of spa-based and health-giving treatments ranging from facials and massage to Reiki and reflexology.  A variety of health-related assessment techniques will also be available. Information booths will provide samples of homeopathic remedies, locally made herbal soaps and healthy treats.  Shop owners and professional staff will be on hand to talk about special diets and holistic treatments for pets. 

In addition to the sampling and body workers, visitors also can sit in on a series of nearly a dozen lectures and participate in movement activities.  Lecture topics range from holistic health for animals and nutrition tips to weight and pain management techniques.

Demonstrations and diagnostic tests from War Memorial Hospital, door prizes and health and beauty products will be given away throughout the day.

Dr. Jane Doyle, a veterinarian, will continue the education experience with a two-hour seminar on holistic pet care at 1:30 p.m. Jan. 29 at the Ice House.

Panorama at the Peak and Tari's Café will have specials all weekend and also will be handing out discount coupons at the Spa Feast for healthy eating items.  Panorama will be selling green tomato cupcakes from its Green Tomato Festival, which will be taking place at the same time.

Expanding beyond the fair at the Ice House, health-conscious visitors can find specials at local spas and a weekend of spa-related activities including spa treatment packages and sale prices on spa and health items at several downtown shops.  Seekers of health and stress relief are urged to experience in-depth versions of the samples at the spa fair by picking and choosing among the town's five, full-service spas and other practitioners open all weekend. 

Several lodging establishments will offer spa packages and discounts on locations with whirlpool tubs.  The Highlawn Inn will also stage its 21st annual West Virginia Winemaster multi-course dinner with matched vintages.

For information on Spa Feast specials and lodging/spa packages, call Travel Berkeley Springs at 800-447-8797 or visit www.berkeleysprings.com.