Santa needs a break

The hustle and bustle of the holidays can leave Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves needing a place to prop up their feet, take a deep breath, and recharge for the start of the new year.From Murphy to Manteo, there are a variety of hotels and resorts providing serene locations, delicious dinners, comfy rooms, and delicate spa treatments. One such place for rest in the state is the well-known Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary.”The Umstead experience is a luxurious stay surrounded by art and nature. Our spa offers an intimate wellness experience distinctive to our serene location. From the organic botanical treatments to our signature product line, the spa draws inspiration from the region’s native flora in a celebration of nature that truly engages all the senses,” said Caroline Jackson-Allen, marketing manager.The Spa is known for its use of North Carolina elements to bring peace and meditation to the body and mind.”Our Emerald Experience is inspired by the detoxifying properties of North Carolina’s most precious gemstone, considered the purest crystal of the green ray. It is centered on balancing and purifying the mind and body, beginning with a dry brushing treatment to start the detoxifying process,” said Jackson-Allen.”Next, guests enjoy a relaxing soak in a chromo therapy tub of warm water blended with mineral salts and herbs. A calming Swedish massage with warm massage oil, followed by a detoxifying juice beverage, completes the experience,” she added.Whether you enjoy a visit to the spa, a round of golf on the course, yoga in the outdoors, or breakfast as the sun rises, there’s a perfect spot for you in North Carolina. From the mountains to the coast, we’ve compiled a list of a few places and spaces for relaxation and rejuvenation that will meet your needs.MountainsThe Old Edwards Inn and SpaHighlandsA European-style retreat nestled in the North Carolina mountains, the Old Edwards Inn offers guests opportunities for spa treatments, golf outings, dining, and shopping. Play 18 holes on the Tom Jackson sculpted course along the Eastern Continental Divide. Shop in the site’s Acorns Boutique where you will find a collection of fine gifts, jewelry, and clothing. Surrounded by wood and local stone with views of the mountaintops, relax with a visit to the spa. Offering unique treatments such as immunity boosting massages, mountain mocha pedicures, and holistic jade roller facials—one is sure to feel rejuvenated after a visit here.Lakeview at FontanaBryson CitySurround yourself with nature and serenity with a visit to Lakeview at Fontana, a retreat space for adults only burrowed in the mountains. Known for their unique treetop soaking cabanas, feel warmth and relaxation while overlooking the forests and mountain side. Yoga, massages, and spa services are offered along with a hiking trail through 50 wooded acres.PiedmontThe Umstead Hotel and SpaCaryThe Umstead offers guests lush accommodations, delicious menu options, and full-service spa treatments. Behind the scenes, James Beard Nominee and celebrated chef, Steven Greene, is leading the culinary team in the famous Herons restaurant.Pets will equally enjoy a stay at the Umstead and are welcome. Be sure to bring your furry family member to DogWoods, the hotel’s enclosed playground for canine guests.Fearrington VillagePittsboroFrom a dairy farm to a rural escape, the Fearrington Village offers visitors a place to nestle at the inn, a taste of fresh cuisine at the restaurant and a space to meditate at the spa. Antiques, lush fabrics, original artwork, and fresh flowers await guests at the inn. From the farm to the fork, the restaurant offers dishes celebrating North Carolina’s four seasons. While at the Village, be sure to stop by and tour the farm where you’ll be greeted by black and white belted cows, goats, and chickens. Before you leave, stop by and say “hello” to Mary Alice, Jasper, and Charlotte, the farm’s donkeys.CoastalThe Sanderling ResortDuckWith views overlooking the Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean, the Sanderling Resort is a one-stop destination for a combination of rest and activity or cuisine and cocktails. Local farms and waters provide for the Southern coastal cuisine you’ll find here. Famous for its breakfast, one will be hard-pressed to pass up the signature Outer Banks Breakfast with eggs, buttermilk biscuits, bacon, and white corn grits. Seasonal classes in yoga offered at sunrise bring serenity to greet you. Find a variety of dining options and spa packages year-round at this resort on the coast.The OC SpaIndian BeachLocated at the Ocean Club Resort, the OC Spa offers a retreat setting nestled between European architecture and Asian aesthetics where guests can enjoy a variety of treatments and wellness activities to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit. As winter blows through, stop by for the “Welcome Summer” special that includes a body polish to prepare you for beach season. In a unique twist, the spa offers specialized treatments for teens which include a facial, manicure, and pedicure.