Our little island trip was going along nicely.A nice family visit,a little sightseeing and of course,time for my photography needs,when suddenly we had a diversion.I had just recently celebrated my 60th birthday and as a belated birthday gift my wife had planned a nice surprise.We pulled into the Tigh-Na-Mara Lodge under the guise that by parking here we would be close to the beach so I could take some beach shots.Then she walks me into the Lodge and says "surprise,we are staying here overnite and spending the afternoon in their Grotto Spa."What a fantastic surprise it was.We were escorted to the lockers and change rooms to put on robes and slippers and then taken to one of their Grotto VIP Suites for couples.We entered into the suite and were greeted by 2 masseusses who showed us our own copper hydro tub to relax in prior to our massages.Beside the tub was 2 glasses of wine and a cheese and cracker tray plus bottled water.We were given 30 minutes to enjoy this and then they came back and gave us the most relaxing,invigorating massage we have ever had!We were then sent up to their lounge for 30 minutes for coffee,tea and fruit prior to getting a facial.I have never had a facial before so this was an "experience" to say the least.She asked if she might open up some blocked pores I had and like a fool I agreed to have this Romanian she-man do this.She said to relax and close my eyes and then she set upon me,squeezing my face until she was satisfied she had played with most of the pores on my face.....yikes....damn that part hurt.She then told me that she was using totally organic products on my face,that would not only do a wonderful job or purifying my skin but would also completely empty my wallet.This basket of goodies would be waiting for me when we went to pay at the end of the day.
Then we were sent to their dining room, Treetop Tapis & Grill (robe and slippers only-no street clothes)for their Endless Tapis Creations,a most amazing array of food over the next two hours.
Then we went and checked into our great cabin in the woods,complete with jetted tub where I proceeded to watch the Canucks trounce the St. Louis Blues.Had a great sleep in our kingsize bed snuggling under our duvet.
We finished it off the next morning before check out with a leisurely morning in their Grotto Mineral Pool,floating along in the pool and alternating with their whirlpool.
All in all.....a fantastic surprise that I will remember fondly....thanks honey!
If you'd like to check this out for yourself...here is the link: http://www.grottospa.com/