Listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its architectural significance and storied past, the Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa in Asheville, North Carolina, was built in 1913 by Edwin Wiley Grove who made his fortune selling Grove’s Tasteless Chill Tonic. Constructed from massive granite boulders hauled up Sunset Mountain by mules, wagons and ropes, this storied retreat has hosted presidents, titans of industry and celebrities — and most recently, my sister and me. What was meant to be a Valentine’s getaway with my husband turned into much-needed sister time after he came down with a bug.
This trip was slightly off brand for me. My travels typically lean heavy on adventure and activity and light on relaxation and downtime. Still, who doesn’t need to intentionally carve out space to unwind?
I arrived in the evening and stepped into the rustic grandeur of the Great Hall, anchored by two massive fireplaces and framed by rocking chairs and intimate seating areas — perfect for curling up with a book, enjoying a cocktail or lingering over conversation. We opted for a light dinner at the Great Hall Bar, soaking in the warmth of the fire and live music before turning in early to prepare for our spa day.
Our room was comfortable and inviting with sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Monday was devoted entirely to the spa. I scheduled a morning massage and an afternoon facial, each including access to the 43,000-square-foot oasis carved into the mountainside. “Spa” feels almost inadequate to describe the experience. Stone archways, flickering firelight and the soft sound of cascading water set the tone as we made our way from the Vanderbilt Wing to the mineral pools. We rotated between warm relaxation pools, waterfall features, the steam room and sauna. The spa maintains a strict no-electronics policy which initially left us slightly twitchy. Books in hand, we settled into the fireside lounge between treatments and quickly embraced the quiet. The outdoor hot tub terrace with panoramic Blue Ridge views was a highlight.
After a blissful day (the treatments were amazing), we returned to our room for a restorative nap. Riding the elevator in my spa robe may have been a trip highlight. That evening, we ventured downtown for a delicious dinner at Strada Italiano, followed by what has become a favorite hotel indulgence in our family: hot cookies and milk delivered by Insomnia Cookies. Trust me — it never disappoints.
We checked out Tuesday morning and parted ways, but not before I squeezed in a hike on one of the property’s scenic trails — a fitting, on-brand end to a restorative visit.
Beyond the spa, the Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa also features a celebrated golf course, indoor and outdoor tennis courts and a full sports complex. Whether you are planning a girls weekend, a romantic getaway or a trip with friends, there is something here for everyone.
Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa
290 Macon Avenue
Asheville, North Carolina, 28804
(800) 438-5800