Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa Is the Ultimate Wellness Retreat

In need of a reset? This luxe-yet-laidback Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa in New England is just what the doctor ordered. Here’s my honest review of the property. after spending three days and nights there.

Name of accommodation: Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

Location: Lenox, MA
Distance from NYC: 2 hours, 45 minutes
Price: starting from $599 per person, per night
Accommodation options: guest rooms, suites, carriage houses

Who Should You Bring?

Miraval is an all-inclusive adults-only resort that’s perfect for visiting with friends, spouses, family members, as a group…or even solo (#treatyourself). Guests are encouraged to set an intention (think: “I intend to slow down and calm my mind” or “I intend to nourish my body”) and craft a one-of-a-kind wellness itinerary based on their goals. But really, you can be as social or introverted as you want. (Group classes and communal table dining your jam? Go for it. More interested in getting a deep tissue massage and room service? That’s cool too.)

What’s the Food Like?

The restaurant, Harvest Moon, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with both indoor and outdoor seating options. All the food is complimentary, and you’re encouraged to order multiple items off the menu since the portions are small and the chef wants you to taste a selection of dishes. For breakfast, I loved the garlicky avocado toast topped with arugula and a roasted tomato basil salad and I’m still dreaming about the pesto primavera I had for dinner—a staple on the menu that is piled high with fresh veggies and Parmesan.

Hit snooze on the alarm or have a class that conflicts with restaurant hours? No worries.  The Roost is open from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and offers grab-and-go snacks like yogurt parfaits, sandwiches, salads, fresh fruit and smoothies.

There is also a fine dining experience offered at 1894, the gourmet restaurant at Miraval’s crown jewel the Wyndhurt Mansion. Here you’ll find a chef’s tasting menu or a prix-fixe option featuring local, farm-fresh ingredients. (Note: There is an additional fee for this.)

Did You Get a Good Night’s Sleep?

The beds were 10/10. The featherbed is made from down and feather and manages to be both soft and supportive—like sinking into a cloud! Add in blackout shades and a phone sleeping bag (the resort encourages unplugging from your devices) and a good night’s sleep is practically guaranteed.

What Amenities Are Available?

Miraval offers multiple workshops, lectures and one-on-one sessions to support your physical, spiritual and mental wellbeing. This includes somewhat common offerings (yoga, golf, kayaking, hiking, cooking classes, etc.) to the more unique (like poetry, astrology, hatchet throwing and learning how to light fire without matches).

I especially enjoyed the Tea and Tarot class where I learned how to consult the cards as a meditative tool for clarity, empowerment and insight. Another highlight was Shinrin Yoku, a Japanese “forest bathing” class that was beyond relaxing.

There is also an on-site spa that offers Ayurveda, body renewal rituals, energy and eastern experiences, massage, mother-to-be pampering, skin care and a salon. In between sessions, I  enjoyed relaxing in one of the three pools.

What Was Your Favorite Part?

I loved how customized each person’s stay at Miraval is and that even if the same person goes there multiple times, they will never have the same experience twice! There are just so many things you can do. Pro tip: Definitely contact the Experience Planning department prior to going so you can make the most out of your visit.

I also appreciated the device-free zones and reminders to stay present and be mindful. In the bathroom there are signs on the mirror encouraging you to recite mantras while washing your hands (“May I be happy. May I be well. May I be safe. May I be peaceful and at ease.”)

All classes require advance sign up with Guest Services, so take your time looking through the daily activities and plan ahead. Many activities have limited spots, and some are free while others are fee-based. Note: For all classes, fee-based activities, and spa services you have four hours to cancel.

You only need to pack athletic clothes for your stay. Evening dining is very casual—you can even wear your bathrobe to all meals!

Although check-in isn’t until 3 p.m., you are encouraged to go to the property as early as 11 a.m. to take advantage of activities, services and lunch. On the day that you leave, you are asked to be out of the room by 11 a.m., but you are welcome to stay on property until 5 p.m.—and trust me, you’re going to want to stay here as long as possible.