Valley stone massage
Smooth basalt from the riverbed is warmed in spring water and worked slowly along the back, legs and shoulders with long, gliding strokes. The heat goes deep and the pressure follows it, so muscles let go without the need for force. Our therapists place stones in the palms and along the spine while they work, and finish with a scalp massage and a warm towel across the eyes. It is our most requested treatment and the one we suggest for anyone who carries stress in the neck and back. Plan to stay on the circuit afterward, because nobody wants to drive straight away.
Who will look after you
Rafael Quintero
Stone therapist
Imani Beckford
Lead therapist
Mei Lanford
Skin therapist
Warm stones, slow hands
Rafael Quintero trained in stone work for a decade before he joined us, and he has taught every therapist on the team. Each session begins with a short conversation about where you hold tension and how firm you like the touch. The stones are checked by hand for temperature before they reach your skin, and the oil is a simple blend of sweet almond and cedar that we make here.
Most guests book stones after an hour or two on the circuit, when the body is already warm and willing. Afterward we bring tea to the quiet room and let you lie there as long as you like before you return to the pools.
Ask about timesWhat sets the valley stone massage apart
River basalt
Our basalt is collected from the riverbed below the retreat, smoothed over years, and warmed slowly in spring water before each session.
Your pressure
Tell us how firm you like it before we begin. Your therapist will check in during the first few minutes and adjust as you go.
Circuit included
Every stone massage of 80 minutes includes two hours on the thermal circuit, before or after your treatment.
Questions about the valley stone massage
They are warm, never hot. Every stone is checked by the therapist first, and you can ask for cooler stones at any time.
The heat lets muscles relax without heavy pressure, but we can work as firmly as you like. Just tell us.
Heat is not right for everyone. Expectant guests, and anyone managing a health condition, should ask their own doctor before booking stones and let the front desk know, so we can suggest a warm oil massage without them.
Drink water, rest on the heated benches, and give yourself an easy evening. Many guests like a gentle soak in the garden pool.
Our therapists mix cedar into a base of almond oil here each week. If you have a nut allergy, tell us when you book and we will use a plain grapeseed oil instead.
Of course. Some guests like a little conversation and others prefer silence. Just say so at the start and your therapist will follow your lead for the rest of the session.
Most guests feel loose and a little sleepy rather than sore. If you asked for very firm work, you may notice some tenderness for a day. Water, a warm soak and an early night all help.
Undress to the level you are comfortable with. You are covered with a warm sheet the whole time, and your therapist only uncovers the area being worked on.
Yes. The garden suite has two tables side by side, and two therapists work in time with each other. It is a lovely way to share a slow afternoon.
Arrive an hour early if you can and spend it on the circuit. Warm muscles make the stones feel even deeper.
Times and prices
Valley stone massage
165 USD80 minutes with circuit access
Stone and scalp
118 USD50 minutes, back, neck and head
Four hands with stones
230 USDTwo therapists, 60 minutes
Stones for two
320 USDSide by side in the garden suite
Illustrative prices for this demo.
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