spa review continued....
spa montage, montage laguna beach, california...(Part 2)
Part 1 of this Spa Montage story
Under the Wellness section of the Spa Montage menu, guests can book private sessions such as fitness training, nutrition consultation, life coaching and meditation. Plus there are regular wellness classes including Beach Boot Camp, daily yoga and the Thalassic (the term means "relating to the sea") Beach Walk. Michael Conte, assistant spa director, says there are a total of 28 classes offered each week free to resort guests.
For those looking for an off-property fitness adventure, there are the maintained trails of Laguna Wildlife Park located about two and a half miles away and easily accessible by taxi or resort driver. Crystal Cove State Park is in nearby Newport Beach, and hiking and running maps are available at the concierge desk.
For 2012, the resort has partnered with yoga guru Ashley Turner to offer monthly, two-day programs.
On the culinary side, I was impressed with the Studio Garden - a larger than expected herb, vegetable and fruit garden located adjacent to the resort's signature restaurant - Studio - under the direction of Chef Craig Strong. Public relations and marketing manager Lauren Crowley says Strong is passionate about eating locally and seasonally and is available for special-request cooking classes. The stone slab table tucked into a corner of the garden is the perfect setting for a cooking class with Strong.
Conte tells me that meals at the resort can also be tailored to specific guest needs such as gluten free or diabetic. There is a designated “spa menu” for snacks and light meals, plus healthy food selections can be ordered from the hotel’s Mosaic Grill and served on the pool side terrace overlooking the ocean.
“We put a lot of energy into the culture here, and to make a connection with our guests,” says Conte. “We want to empower and educate people on how to live a more balanced life.” Mone on Spa Montage & Montage Laguna Beach
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