Spa Terra at The Meritage Resort at Napa Offers Ultimate Underground Experience

NAPA, Calif., May 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Forty feet below the iconic grape crusher statue that graces its southern end, the Napa Valley made history again today with the opening of Spa Terra at The Meritage Resort at Napa. The luxury retreat nestled nel cuore della terra (literally, "in the heart of the earth,") is the first spa in the world to be developed entirely underground.
 

The couple's therapy room at Spa Terra features an oversized tub perfect for a romantic soak. (PRNewsFoto/The Meritage Resort at Napa) NAPA, CA UNITED STATES 05/16/2007

Located in the eastern wing of the Resort's Estate Cave, the 9,000 square foot, $7.5 million project is an underground oasis, featuring steam grottos, soaking pools, water walls, and lavishly appointed private treatment rooms for individuals and couples. "The cave environment is incredibly well-suited to spa design and construction for a number of reasons," says David Bury, the architect, whose award-winning projects include Aji, The Oaks, and Spa Ojai. "It maintains a constant temperature, which makes it very energy efficient, it's quiet, and structurally it's incredibly stable. And, perhaps most exciting for us, we were able to focus all of our energy on interior elements -- since the exterior of this project was handled by Mother Nature."

Spa Terra's sumptuous decor reflects the Mediterranean theme of the Resort, replete with hand-wrought fixtures and extensive custom tile work. Water elements, heated tiles and vaulted ceilings are complimented by thoughtfully selected materials, and an earth-toned palate and the incorporation of many natural elements offers both a subtle reminder of the unique location and a nod to the rich heritage of the spa tradition.

Lynn Curry of Natural Resources Spa Consulting worked closely with Spa Terra Director Victoria Boscarino to develop a menu of services and treatments for face and body that incorporate local products and draw on the bounty of the region.

The spa's signature experience, Solo Vino, combines an exfoliating grape seed scrub, an invigorating jet shower rinse, hydrating body wrap with a wine cave mud mask and Terra massage; and includes a wine and cheese selection to round out the two-hour treatment. A complete spa menu is available online at www.spaterra.com .

  At-a-Glance:

  -- 10 private, individually temperature controlled treatment rooms
  -- Separate mens/womens steam saunas and soaking pools with water walls
  -- Welcoming relaxation room with water feature
  -- Complete menu of treatments and services with special options for men,
     teens and expectant mothers
  -- Spa Terra menu and wine service available with treatment

Built on an eight-acre private vineyard, The Meritage Resort at Napa opened in July 2006. From the complimentary bottle of wine at check-in, to gourmet cuisine at the on-site Siena restaurant, to luxurious, Tuscan-inspired guest rooms and suites, The Meritage Resort exudes elegance. For additional information, or to make reservations at The Meritage Resort at Napa, call 1.866.370.NAPA (6272). Guests can also learn more at www.themeritageresort.com and www.vinobelloresort.com .

Source: The Meritage Resort at Napa

CONTACT: Tori Wilder, +1-707-227-8310, twilder@newlevelgroup.com, for The Meritage Resort at Napa