Spa Spotlight: The New SPA Valmont at the Hotel Plaza Athénée, New York, Joins the Exclusive V35 Club

Luxury is alive and well at the very lovely and newly launched SPA Valmont at the Hotel Plaza Athénée in New York City. To understand what truly sets Valmont apart from other branded treatments and products requires one to pay attention and not glaze over when reading the science (confession:  science has put me to sleep since ninth grade biology!). The payoff though, is an understanding that the DNA and RNA used in Valmont’s products make a visible difference to the ravages of aging on your skin and body.

The spa is part of an exclusive club called V35, a reference to the 35 peaks in Switzerland that top 13,000 miles. There will be only 35 spas admitted into this “club,” and this is the first and only in the U.S.

I experienced the Elixir des Glaciers Ultimate Treatment, a two-hour body treatment and facial that really was the ultimate. The treatment was performed in one of four rooms featuring Asian details, a private bathroom, my own closet, sitting area, and treatment area. I was invited to shower with the Valmont Fresh Dew Cleanser, which felt very silky and luxe. A Mediterranean foot bath followed in a stunning  blue ceramic bowl with stones topped with fresh lemon slices. As Jessica, my very capable therapist, massaged my aching feet (I’m suffering from a touch of plantar fasciitis at the moment), I sipped cranberry hibiscus tea and nibbled on a macadamia nut and candied mango.

The body treatment, called “Peaks of Slimness,” was next. I was asked what body part to focus on; I chose my thighs, which can always use some help! Several layers of serum, curve shaper, and cellular refining scrub were applied to my front and back, utilizing techniques to break up cellulite, firm, and tone my skin. It was both invigorating and relaxing all at once.

The facial followed. To detail the steps Jessica went through would require far more space than this post allows, but the highlights were definitely the signature “butterfly technique,” which is used in all Valmont treatments, and the special mask made of the DNA of salmon roe that comes from Vancouver, Canada. Every aspect of the treatment was well explained and very well executed.

As for the results? I can honestly say that my body did feel firmer and my face looked “lifted.”  Some people even commented, unprompted, that I looked good (and I had no makeup on!). If I had the time and budget, this would be one luxury worth having every month…perhaps when I win the lottery.

A note about the Hotel Plaza Athénée: Located on 64^th street just off Madison Avenue in Manhattan, the hotel is conveniently located near great shopping and museums. A part of Leading Hotels of the World, the boutique hotel has 117 guest rooms and 24 suites, and features a lovely blend of European and Asian décor.