New Spa Offers Relaxation, Pampering
By Leslie Rott

Receptionist Sarah Janowski-Mull (left), massage therapist Debra Jenne (center), and spa manager Audrey Moran (right) stand outside the new Lilac Tree Spa.

Large wicker chairs, dim lighting, granite and dark wood, fragrant smells, and the sounds of trickling water abound at the Lilac Tree Spa, a place where relaxation and pampering are key, said Spa Manager Audrey Moran. Situated on the lower level of the Lilac Tree Hotel, the spa features a wide array of treatments for body, mind, and spirit. It opened July 2.

The minute patrons enter Lilac Tree Spa, the experience begins. Ushered into the “relaxation room,” clients are given water, tea, and fresh fruit, and asked to sit back, and enjoy dim lighting, candles, music, a comfortable chair, and the sound of a slate fountain that is the focus of one wall.

After 10 or 15 minutes in the “relaxation room,” patrons move on to their choice of a variety of spa treatments.

According to Ms. Moran, massages are the keystone treatment offered at the spa, and three types are offered. A relaxation massage offers the client a chance to unwind and a deep tissue massage rids the client of muscle tension and stress. The hot stone treatment is a massage with a twist. Hot stones are placed on the body, letting heat relax the muscles, and then a therapist massages away the tension.

The spa also offers sea salt glows, relaxation bath experiences, body wraps, “high-powered” tanning, pedicures, manicures, and facials.

Pedicures are performed in “state of the art” Sanijet tubs, which are tubeless. According to Ms. Moran, the tubs do not recycle water, which greatly helps increase sanitation and limit infection.

The spa showcases products by Sprayology and Eminence. Another popular item to take home are the “micro-chenile” robes that clients wear during their spa treatments.

“The response has just been awesome,” Ms. Moran said of the spa’s success this summer.

Patrons seem to agree. Anne Schultz, from Allegan, was visiting the Island for the day when she walked by and saw that the spa was a new addition to the Island. She decided to get a hot stone massage and said it was a very relaxing experience. “I really enjoyed it,” she said. She added that she comes to the Island often on day trips and would be making return visits to Lilac Tree Spa in the future.

Lilac Tree Spa is the brainchild of Ms. Moran and Nancy Porter, co-owner of Lilac Tree Hotel. Ms. Moran had started what she called a “super successful massage concession” in the hotel, to see how guests would respond to spa services.

The spa “is definitely worth a trip to Mackinac Island,” Ms. Moran said.

Simplicity and functionality reign in this Asian inspired spa, which is equipped with specialized relaxation music, locker rooms, and a shower and changing area.

The Lilac Tree Spa is a member of the International Spa Association.