Miami Beach has no shortage of luxury spas, many housed in top hotels and resorts.
But, if you’re in the market for a serious wellness retreat in a posh setting, you can’t do better than the Carillon Miami Wellness Resort.
Previously known as Canyon Ranch Miami, the seaside property has returned to its original name, the Carillon. But the wellness theme of the all-suite hotel remains. The resort is renowned for its 70,000-square-foot spa – the largest on the Eastern Seaboard – with 54 treatment rooms, a rock-climbing wall, a daily menu of 30 exercise classes and much more. There’s even a fitness program for kids.
The Carillon aims to align physical, spiritual and mental health – all in one luxurious setting. Upon check-in, guests receive a list of spa offerings and fitness classes taught by experts from all over the globe. They also learn about the property’s team of integrated health experts, from life coaches and nutritionists to practitioners of Chinese medicine.
Treatment options are extensive, from electro-lymphatic drainage therapy, which uses high-frequency sound pulses to decongest your lymphatic system, to a European-inspired hydrotherapy circuit that stimulates circulation. The nine-station circuit includes an anti-aging doctor and even an igloo with chilling mists of menthol, mint and eucalyptus that energize your body and improve circulation.
The fitness classes are anything but dull. If you’re looking to boost your metabolism, sign up for the intense Metabolic Meltdown workout. Another fat-burning option is the Rockwall Bootcamp, where you tackle the two-story, indoor rock-climbing wall. If you make it to the top, you’re treated to a stunning bird’s-eye view of the beach.
All those grueling workouts are sure to work up an appetite. Try The Strand, in the lobby, a seasonal, ingredient-driven restaurant filled with greenery and soothing colors. Inspired by the Mediterranean, dishes are colorful, creative, organic and delicious, from the Ravioli Ricotta Spinach, with cold-pressed marinated heirloom tomatoes and basil, to the Faroe Salmon, with cauliflower, asparagus and parsnip puree. There’s even a wellness menu: Select one of seven grilled proteins and two veggie sides, simply prepared with olive oil and kosher salt. You’ll leave feeling content but not stuffed.
The Corner Store, a juice bar and café – as well as in-suite dining – are additional options for hungry (or thirsty) guests. Plus, foodies will want to look into healthy cooking demonstrations, craft cocktail classes and private wine tastings.
One of the Carillon’s more intriguing offerings is a one-on-one consultation with a “grocery guru,” who coaches guests on making healthy choices in the supermarket. After discussing the client’s goals and lifestyle, they hit a local grocery store, analyzing nutrition labels, doing product comparisons and examining fresh ingredients. The outing takes about an hour and a half. In the end, the guest leaves with healthy alternatives to their usual choices.
When you want a respite between your Pilates and yoga sessions, take a swim in one of the hotel’s four pools, including an adults-only rooftop pool, two oceanfront pools and a sunset pool. You could also stroll on the beach or simply lounge around in your elegantly furnished suite, complete with 400-thread-count sheets and flat-screen TV.
All 150 rooms boast unobstructed views via floor-to-ceiling windows as well as a full kitchen with KitchenAid appliances and a Nespresso machine. Bathrooms have walk-in rain showers, soaking tubs and vanity areas. You can listen to music on the Bose system or stream it from your phone thanks to the complimentary wi-fi. In-room tablets provide access to hotel services, including the restaurant, spa, room service and valet.
Opened in 1958 as the Carillon Hotel, the Art Deco structure exemplified Miami Beach’s resort culture after World War II and was known for glitzy parties, cabaret shows, top entertainment and famous guests. The hotel closed in the late 1980s but was redeveloped and reopened in 2008, when it became Canyon Ranch. The hotel’s current owner purchased it in 2015.
Each year, the resort continues to up its game. For example, a cosmetic surgery division recently opened, providing guests with consultations and the latest injectables.
With all it has to offer, it would be difficult not to feel revitalized – mind, body and soul – after a stay at the Carillon Miami Wellness Resort. O
Carillon Miami Wellness Resort is located at 6801 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. For more information, call 866-800-3858 or visit carillonhotel.com.
