Reviewed by Spa & Wellness MexiCaribe
Just a five-minute ferry ride from the south terminal in Manhattan takes you across the water where the East River meets the Hudson. Enjoy views of the Statue of Liberty before arriving on Governors Island; this former military and coast guard base was transformed into a public space in 2005 and has welcomed guests attending a variety of concerts and festivals over the years. Now offering a brand new, state of the art hydrothermal wellness experience; visitors can enjoy a day at the QC NY Spa, the first QC Terme location outside Europe.
Arrive at the tranquil reception area and check-in to receive your locker, kitted out with a robe and sandals, before taking a tour of the facilities, which include a vast array of over 20 wellness experiences.
From the hydrotherapy pools and several of the saunas, enjoy breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline as daytime gives way to sunset, and then nightfall, and the New York cityscape lights up the sky while guests relax with a variety of stimulating jets, bubble beds, and varying temperatures.
On the ground floor, the wet rooms consist of two steam rooms offering contrasting aromas and four vichy showers providing hydromassage atop marble platforms. Brace yourself for the icy foot bath alternated with a warm herbal foot soak. Venture upstairs to try one or all of the many themed saunas, or to rejuvenate in the infrared lounge. With several relaxation spaces to choose from, you can enjoy hanging cocoon chairs, plush lounge chairs facing an open fireplace, the upside down room – an optical illusion experience, and the music lounge, where vinyl records and books about musical legends adorn the walls.
Healthy juices, sandwiches and snacks are available along with cocktails, wine and beer, served in the cafe area. Enjoy the outdoor space during the summer months and take advantage of the lounge tents constructed for the winter, complete with a chic glass fireplace in one and heated blankets and cozy chairs in the other.
By Sara Jones, editor