2955 E. First Ave., Suite 200, Denver; 303-321-7872;
The treatment: Nurturing prenatal massage, 50 minutes, $90
This spa is for: People who want to relax and pamper sore muscles after a workout; or people who want to skip the workout and just relax
First impressions: Light and breezy, the spa brings to mind the ocean with its aqua decor and minimalist feel. “Pura Vida,” a popular saying in Costa Rica, means pure life, which is what you want to have after hanging out there — you leave ready for a healthy salad and a tall glass of water.
The treatment was: Worth the money. Moms-to-be who are dying to lie on your stomach, this is your spa. Foamy pillows with belly and breast cutouts let you lie facedown in comfort, avoiding the side-to-side flip many spas use for pregnant women. The face-down position lets the massage therapist go deeper into sore back muscles, including the sacroiliac joints of the pelvis. At times, this massage was intense, but necessary to improve a sore back — the perfect massage for people who want more for their money than just a relaxing rubdown with oil. Despite the deep concentration on sore spots, the treatment — in a dimly lighted room with soothing classical music and nature sounds — was quite relaxing.
Amenities: The relaxation room, filled with comfy lounge chairs and indulgent magazines, offers cucumber water and hot tea. You can also order food from a spa menu.
Room for improvement: The locker room is on another floor, though there is a changing area near the spa. To use the steam room or showers — fully stocked with shampoo and lotions — you must hop in an elevator.
Make the most of your visit: With a spa appointment, guests have full use of the Pura Vida fitness center. Arrive early and take a yoga or Pilates class. Hang around afterward to soak in the whirlpool and enjoy the eucalyptus steam room, which is almost as relaxing as the massage.
Repeat visit planned? Yes: If you don’t need a prenatal massage, consider the “revive hangover remedy” eye treatment, the exfoliating “summer scrub” or the yoga nail special — a yoga class and pedicure focusing on the toes and balls of the feet.
Know before you go: There is free parking in the adjacent parking garage, but give yourself a few extra minutes to navigate through Cherry Creek and find the garage elevator to the spa. Jennifer Brown
