1. Transforming Stress by Design
Destress Centers
Capitalizing on panoramic views of the Potomac, Relâche Spa at Gaylord
National Resort and Convention Center paints a picture of serenity.
Appropriately named Relâche, which is French for relax or respite, this
new spa has a decidedly European flair, with sassy black-and-white
décor, a mix of urban buzz and the flavor of a riverside resort.
S et within National Harbor’s glass atrium on the and massage, plus riverview relaxation lounge, antioxidants. Or the Relâche Papillon, 80-minute
the centerpiece of the spa seems worlds away combination of calming soak, rejuvenating mas-
Maryland shore of the Potomac, Relâche Spa
from business meetings and the vast exhibition sage, body wrap, and aromatic oil scalp treatment.
boasts an indoor Junior Olympic-size 24-meter lap
hall. Time-challenged executives can schedule the Serving the needs of meeting planners and
pool that becomes “open air” in warm weather as
“Meeting Relief” massage, a 50-minute combina- convention attendees, Relâche helps fit some
the entire front wall opens up to river views and
tion of aromatherapy and deep-tissue massage down time into a busy day. Energy breaks and
a poolside social scene. Connecting is a 24-hour
designed to clear your mind and stimulate your chair massage by spa staff are options. Also late
state-of-the-art fitness center with a full line of
muscles. Couples can opt for “A Moment Together” evening hours to accommodate meeting sched-
LifeFitness cardio and strength training equipment,
in a secluded haven overlooking the river. Special ules. The spa/salon/boutique are open seven days
each with television and radio. Fitness buffs can
services for men include a “Gentlemen’s Only” skin a week.
use free weights, work with a personal trainer or
treatment, and “Detoxifying Hydrotherapy.” As an urban escape, Gaylord National is an
yoga instructor, and join aerobics groups.
Salon services at Relâche mirror the Gaylord easy drive from Capital landmarks, museums, and
Designed to complement the Gaylord hotel’s
philosophy, offering both sexes an array of entertainment, yet surrounded by the serenity of
convention focus, Relâche is surprisingly intimate
manicures, pedicures, and hair styling. Utilizing the Potomac River and the 300-acre waterfront
and calm.
organic oils and ingredients whenever possible, resort.
Gaylord Hotels’ trademarked convention
therapists customize facials rich in micronutrients.
center hallmark – “everything in one place” – is
Tel +1.301.965.2000
Try the “Age-Defying Catio Vital” which strengthens
matched by a wide range of spa treatments and
the skin against free radicals by infusing botanical www.GaylordNational.com
salon services. With 12 private rooms for skin care
281 Best of DC Best of DC 12