The Finger Lakes in New York are renowned for their abundant wine production. But can a weekend here be more about wellness than wine? At Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa, I discovered it absolutely can.
The resort spans the shores of Cayuga Lake, encompassing about 60 percent of the quaint, storybook village of Aurora with charming, meticulously restored 19th-century buildings that blend historic elegance with modern comfort.
The Inns of Aurora is a captivating collection of five charming storied inns, each brimming with its own unique appeal, complemented by a world-class spa and farm-to-table dining that invite guests to reconnect with themselves and one another.
Whether strolling the picturesque streets or enjoying a sunset overlooking the lake, every corner of Inns of Aurora exudes a timeless charm that provides an instant sense of calm—ideal for a wellness getaway.
Eight Ways to Spend a Wellness Weekend at Inns of Aurora
Here are eight activities to make your getaway to this idyllic haven truly unforgettable. A weekend escape at Inns of Aurora will leave you feeling revitalized—and more refreshed than ever.
1. Bodywork With Water Circuit
The spa is, simply put, heaven on Earth. The team collaborated with a consulting firm to create a magnificent venue for healing and rest. Director of Serenity, Laura Coburn, has assembled a team of unique talents, reflected in their exceptional offerings. I highly recommend trying the Red Flower Hammam Ritual and the Abhyanga massage.
The spa also includes all-day access to the water circuit, allowing you to enjoy the cold plunge and warm pools. Sip mint tea on the balcony overlooking the property, or read a book while integrating your healing treatment.
2. Reiki Session
As a Reiki level II practitioner, I’m convinced it’s the ideal complement to any vacation. Reiki channels life force energy, which is vital for our health and well-being. When this energy is low or blocked, we are more likely to feel stress or illness. Reiki aims to balance and enhance this energy to support healing and well-being—similar to a vacation. When you combine the two, the healing is real!
3. CBD Flight
For ultimate Zen, hit the spa’s Fieldview Studio for their CBD flight. You will be pampered while harnessing the powerful effects of full-spectrum CBD to soothe your feet, calves and hands. With five different CBD-infused products, you’ll leave feeling like a new person.
4. Getting Out in Nature
Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa is lucky enough to have two resident Outdoorsmen. Yes, that’s their title. And they’ve crafted a program that fully immerses you in the natural beauty that makes this area so special. In fact, they’ve mapped out and formed miles of trails surrounding the property with views spanning the lake. If you’d rather be on the water than admire it from afar, join the Outdoorsmen for a sunrise or sunset lake cruise.
I also tried archery at their handcrafted facility near the spa. It is a beautiful way to practice patience and intention. Learning the sport, taking aim and embracing the moments when I missed became a wonderful opportunity for growth.
5. Bike Around Town
For those craving some “me” time, grab one of the complimentary bikes and explore the charming town of Aurora. With its quiet streets and pedestrian-friendly atmosphere, even those who typically avoid biking on public roads will find it enjoyable. It’s a perfect way to get your blood pumping while soaking in the beauty.
6. Sky Sound Journey
As someone on a spiritual journey, I’m still new to some of the “woo-woo” and was excited to experience my first sound bath. Similar to a Reiki session, I felt chills down my spine, saw clusters of colors passing through my eyelids as the bowls nourished my chakras and had divine downloads about what was holding me back in life. This practice helps you reconnect with the truest version of yourself. To say it was powerful is an understatement!
7. Nourishing Farm-to-Table Meals
Comparable to a chef’s table dinner, the Aurora Cooks! eatery offers weekly themed dinners led by their talented Executive Chef Lou Donato. The three-course Finger Lakes dinner featured fresh, market-sourced fruits and vegetables, locally raised meats and a refreshing mocktail to start. For those interested in the region’s wines, the expertly selected pairings are divine—locally produced and free of mass-production chemicals.
8. Animal Spirit Card Reading
Tarot readings have been a massive part of my spiritual journey and I was thrilled to see that Inns of Aurora offers animal spirit card readings twice a week, complimentary for guests. The team uses The Wild Unknown Animal Spirit Deck by Kim Krans to guide guests through intuitive readings, offering everything from single-card pulls to three-card spreads that reveal past, present and future insights.
My draw was a turtle—a card that resonated deeply with me as a journalist. It symbolizes the energy behind great writers and storytellers, gathering life experiences under their shells. The card also hinted at an adventure that would bring balance to my life, which my stay at Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa certainly delivered.
About the author:
Sara Iannacone is a multi-passionate entrepreneur whose life and career are fueled by a profound love for exploration and storytelling. As a writer, coach and reiki practitioner, Sara draws inspiration from the vast beauty of our world, using it as her motivation and muse. Read more of her work at Sara-Iannacone.com.
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