A few months ago, I found myself planning a San Francisco Bay Area getaway with one of my best friends. Research quickly led me to the award-winning Cavallo Point - the Lodge at the Golden Gate. With sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Cavallo Point is minutes from downtown San Francisco, located in the scenic city of Sausalito, CA. Nestled on over 75,000 acres of national parkland, the property once housed a military base but now serves as luxurious accommodations with a spa sanctuary and plenty of dining, art, retail and recreational services.
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A few months ago, I found myself planning a San Francisco Bay Area getaway with one of my best friends. Research quickly led me to the award-winning Cavallo Point - the Lodge at the Golden Gate. With sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Cavallo Point is minutes from downtown San Francisco, located in the scenic city of Sausalito, CA. Nestled on over 75,000 acres of national parkland, the property once housed a military base but now serves as luxurious accommodations with a spa sanctuary and plenty of dining, art, retail and recreational services.
As an avid spa-goer, one of the main draws was the Cavallo Point Healing Arts Center & Spa, an 11,000-square-foot sanctuary. The spa menu features signature massages and facials, as well as an array of cultural healing practices from around the world. I was 32 weeks pregnant at the time, so I called ahead to plan for the best experience possible. The spa team recommended the 60-minute Mama Goddess Massage (60 min./$180-$200) to address the specific aches and pains of pregnancy.
Discovering the Spa
When the Sunday of my visit finally came, my friend and I headed over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to Cavallo Point for some morning Zen time. Upon arriving we were impressed with the natural landscape and enchanting accommodations showcasing historical architecture and contemporary design, spread throughout the property. Charming rocking chairs were positioned on many of the porches, giving an inviting and relaxed feel. We checked in at the main reception area, enjoyed a fresh pastry and were given directions to the Healing Arts Center & Spa a short distance away.
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I entered the Healing Arts Center & Spa and immediately stopped at the Tea Bar, where I ordered an immune-boosting wellness tonic made with lemon, ginger root and oregano. This is my go-to type of drink when traveling, although I was certainly tempted by all the other nutritious tonics, teas and food options on the menu. After checking in and filling out some (paperless) consent forms, I browsed the spa's retail boutique, eyeing wellness books, journals, jewelry and an array of skin and body finds.
A kind attendant soon welcomed me back and showed me to the locker room, where I changed into a spa robe and slippers. She pointed out the spa facilities I would have access to, including eucalyptus-infused steam rooms, showers and a stunning relaxation lounge with large windows to view nature outside. The spa offerings continue outside with hot tubs, showers, a heated meditation pool, fire pit and Zen garden. I took it all in before slipping on my robe and relaxing in the lounge while sipping a cup of warm lemon-lavender tea. In my experience, it always pays to give yourself plenty of time before and after a scheduled service to enjoy the amenities and sit in quiet calmness.
Mama Goddess Massage
Before long, a kind massage therapist introduced herself and walked us upstairs to the treatment rooms. As good as a massage is normally, I personally think the experience of a prenatal massage is amplified. It was clear my therapist was expertly trained in the special accommodations required for the service, as she guided me onto the table with a specialty support system for my belly. No detail was left unnoticed, as bolsters supported my arms and calves too. I felt safe, comfortable and supported, ready to calm my senses and muscles.
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The therapist used a custom-designed massage oil made with mom and baby-safe organic clementine and jasmine, which not only uplifts the senses but supports skin elasticity and aids in stretch mark prevention. The next 60 minutes included a full body massage with excellent pressure and flow—my only complaint was the time went by too fast. A lesson learned, I’m booking the 90-minute version next time!
Expanded Healing
While I relaxed at the spa, my friend opted for some time in nature, enjoying the bay air and Pacific breeze. Cavallo Point offers 350 acres of trails for hiking, biking and exploring. She forged through open spaces and walked beside protected areas, taking in both water and city views, and finding a few quiet moments to meditate in the great outdoors. We met up after our individual Cavallo Point experiences, both feeling rejuvenated and renewed.
I’m already planning my next visit: a wellness retreat to take advantage of the healing arts services available at the resort. Designed and facilitated by Bay Area experts, these treatments guide individuals on a path to help release physical and mental limitations and energy blocks for a healthier and happier life. I was blown away when I realized how extensive their treatment offerings are: meditation, energy work, herbal treatments, shamanic journeys, cacao ceremonies, intuitive readings and more. For guests who are new to some of these healing modalities (like me), the website offers suggested itineraries and planned spa and wellness events to help newbies dip their toes in the waters.
Until next time, Cavallo Point!
