Haute Seclusion: The Beverly Wilshire Spa is a Hidden Treat

Many spa facilities try to impress with their size. What impresses about the Spa at the Beverly Wilshire by Four Seasons is its intimacy. In fact, though part of one of the best known hotels in LA—if not the world—this spa is almost like a hidden secret.

That’s not to say it lacks refinement. Adjacent to the recently redesigned, secluded Mediterranean style pool area (allegedly copied from Sophia Loren’s own), the spa is designed around a huge amethyst crystal geode. Men’s and Women’s areas follow simple modern design with a high amenity level, including Penhaligon products, and a toilet bag to take home. To prepare for your treatment, they offer one of the nicest steam areas I’ve enjoyed anywhere, a circular room with pinpoint lights in the ceiling giving a night sky effect (see above). A three-option experience shower and ice fountain complete the wet area, along with a roomy two-head private shower.

Focusing on Espa treatments, they are also one of the only spas in LA outside of her own clinic to offer Kate Sommerville facial treatments such as the DermalQuench and DermaLucent, as well as exclusively offering celebrity make-up artist Christopher Drummond’s natural product line. Ayurvedic, detox, reflexology, hot stones, mud and algae treatments, pregnancy/new mom care, are all among their well-selected menu. They also offer an inviting series of “quick fix” 20-minute treatments that are a great alternative when time is limited.

On my recent visit, I enjoyed an unusual Balinese massage in a comfortable treatment room (above) with a consultation throne, heated table, and warmed towels. Hot oils of lemongrass, eucalyptus and cypress were rubbed copiously over over my body followed by hot stones and a slow, langorous, concentrated and intense “efflueurage,” a deeply relaxing full body massage—including hands and feet—after which my robe was returned heated at the end.

The very comfortable pool cabanas, by the way, may also be used for spa services, including some fun treatments for kids and teens (ages 5-17) in the Alice in Beverly Wilshire Land cabana. The adjacent Lea Journo hair salon (featuring Kerastase treatments) and large gym are also available. Request therapist Gillian.

The Beverly Wilshire is located at 9500 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, 310.275.5200