Scandinavian spa immersed in nature opens in Clayton: Seeking to capture outdoor tranquility.
Maplestone Ranch and Retreat, a new Nordic spa in Mississippi Mills, Clayton, offers an immersive relaxation experience unlike any other. Instead of the typical urban spa setting, Maplestone embraces the beauty and tranquility of rural surroundings, creating a sanctuary that invites guests to step away from the demands of daily life.
The journey begins as you exit the parking lot, leading you through a wooded trail that sets the tone for relaxation before entering the spa. Co-owner Tausha Hellyer explained, "We want our guests to settle into the space, to soak in the vibe we're creating here." By surrendering to the soothing atmosphere and natural elements, guests begin decompressing well before stepping inside.
One key differentiator for Maplestone lies in its intimate connection with nature. The spa sprawls across a vast property, allowing it to seamlessly integrate with the outdoors. Hellyer stated, "We work with the elements of nature to complement the relaxation experience." From chirping birds to a set of wind chimes as the sole soundtrack, nature plays a vital role in the overall experience.
Emphasizing an exclusive, boutique atmosphere, Maplestone caps the number of visitors in the spa to ensure a personalized experience. Offering two- and four-hour bookings, the spa accommodates a maximum of 16 individuals at any given time. "We don't want to be like a typical Nordic spa," said Hellyer, "here, you'll find an escape, a completely different feeling."
The 500-acre property hosts an array of offerings beyond traditional Nordic spa elements. Guests can enjoy heated saltwater pools with waterslides, hot tubs, dry saunas, cold plunge pools, outdoor showers, and cold waterfall showers. Rest and relaxation areas feature essential amenities such as firepits and a meditation cave, fostering holistic wellness.
A geodesic dome serves as the setting for classes and events, while a field offers ample space for continued leisure. Maplestone is also planning to add a large, Finnish sauna and a wood-fired hot pool to its roster of features.
Hellyer and co-owner Ryan McMurrer began work on the Nordic spa in fall 2023, initially aiming for an opening in spring or summer 2024. However, faced with delays due to health inspections, the spa did not open until October 2024. To ensure a perfect opening experience, Maplestone held a soft launch in the fall.
The upcoming grand opening event, scheduled for June 7, will showcase Maplestone's amenities while offering local wellness-related businesses the opportunity to showcase their products and services. In addition to tours, guests can attend free classes and partake in activities on the field and inside the geodesic dome.
Local collaboration is important to Hellyer, who believes that economic success depends on supporting small businesses. "There's no reason we all have to do this alone," she said. "We'll always be better if we help each other."
For guests seeking to escape the monotony of everyday life, Maplestone Ranch and Retreat offers a distinctive retreat that combines time-honored Nordic spa rituals with a deep connection to nature, creating a remarkable and rejuvenating experience that stands out among other spa destinations.
- Regarding the weather, Maplestone Ranch and Retreat is located in a rural setting, providing guests a welcome change from urban spa environments.
- In addition to relaxation, Maplestone Ranch and Retreat offers various classes and events, reflecting a strong focus on sustainable living and entertainment.
- For those interested in fashion-and-beauty, Maplestone Ranch and Retreat provides essential amenities such as firepits and a meditation cave, fostering personal wellness and lifestyle enhancement.
- The spa's home-and-garden section includes an expansive 500-acre property accommodating various leisure activities like a field for continuous play and a geodesic dome for classes and events.
- Maplestone Ranch and Retreat also caters to food-and-drink enthusiasts, offering exceptional services such as heated saltwater pools with waterslides and hot tubs for both relaxation and excitement.
- While politics might not seem directly related to Maplestone Ranch and Retreat, its co-owners, Tausha Hellyer and Ryan McMurrer, support the livelihood of local businesses, advocating for small-scale economic collaboration and mutual growth.
- Following the delays caused by health inspections, Maplestone Ranch and Retreat is finally opening its doors this October 2024, inviting guests to immerse themselves in a unique retreat experience that blends relaxation, nature, and wellness.
