Spa Communities
Now that hotel chains like Fairmont or Ritz-Carlton have ventured into the world of residential developments, we are seeing their influence in the resort-style communities that are beginning to emerge. Lately, this concept has gone one step further and has been demonstrated in the latest real estate trend: the Spa residential community.
This current trend attracts much more than an exclusive market niche; These communities attract retirees, young families, singles, and just about everything in between. Spa communities aren’t just for the wealthy either – they’re springing up in single-family homes, fractional-ownership properties, and condos.
Life here is more than just massages and facials; it is about promoting a healthy lifestyle that involves gourmet foods, natural settings, recreational activities, and of course, spa services.
Here are some of the leading spa communities in the US in various stages of development.
1. The Villas at Miraval Resort, Catalina, Arizona
Located north of Tucson in the Sonoran Desert, Miraval is for those who want an exclusive private residence and don’t mind paying the price. Only 16 villas are sold for the total ownership.
Membership to your private club will include a personal trainer, unlimited access to over 100 classes and programs (from yoga and gourmet cooking to photography), and entry to the club’s four-week full immersion package (1 month of spa services from luxury). The club membership fee starts at $ 16,000.
Cost: Units range in price from $ 2.55 million to $ 3.4 million and the complex should be completed by the end of 2008.
2. Mammoth, Private Residence Club, Mammoth Lakes, CA
Mammoth is found high in the eastern Sierra Mountains of California, at an elevation of 8,050 feet. Furnished one, two and three bedroom homes are available for purchase in an elegant resort home setting. Standard features include granite countertops, leather dining chairs, wide-screen plasma TV in the living room, and traditional Tibetan Tufenkian rugs.
Residents are steps away from great restaurants, boutiques, and a 15-person high-speed gondola for quick access to slopes. Other amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center, spa facilities, climate-controlled wine storage, and a members lounge. Owners can also exchange time with other participating clubs around the world.
Cost: Homeowners receive a deed that conveys 1/8 undivided interest in a residence, as well as common areas and facilities. Prices range from $ 300,000 to $ 610,000.
3. Residential Suites at the Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch, CO
These are full-ownership condos with spectacular mountain views, direct access to the ski slopes, and all the amenities you can expect from a luxury hotel chain. Units are fully furnished, down to the artwork, and include upgraded amenities such as granite countertops, 400-thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, Sub-Zero refrigerators, Wolf built-in ovens, and ceramic cook tops.
Resident privileges include priority reservations at the award-winning spa (complete with rock-walled grotto and lazy river hot tub), Dial-a-Chef program for in-residence private meal preparation, and proximity to excellent restaurants and shops. When you’re ready to hit the slopes, your personal ski concierge will make sure your gear is clean and ready to go, and the Ski Nanny program will take care of the kids while you tackle the expert races.
Cost: One and Two Bedroom Full Owned Condo, Fully Furnished Condo Suites, starting at $ 639,000.