Motherhood is beautiful, fulfilling—and more than a little exhausting. Many days, I’ve met my husband at the door, disheveled and frazzled, and uttered the phrase dads everywhere know well: “I need a break.” It turns out I’m not alone. We all need a break! That’s why mom-cations, mom-only getaways without kids or spouses, are all the rage these days. In fact, even science backs it up: In 2018, psychologists released a study touting the benefits of moms taking short breaks from their families to relax and recharge.
The bonus? According to the study, a fabulous mom-cation doesn’t just benefit Mom—it’s good for the whole family! I assume that’s because when I’m rested and content, I’m way less likely to snap when someone tracks mud across the floor, spills milk twice in one meal, or lets me know the morning of the class party that I’m signed up for brownies and paper plates.
Chateau Elan
100 Rue Charlemagne
Braselton, Georgia 30517
678-425-0900
Château Élan is a 3,500-acre winery and resort in the picturesque hills of north Georgia, just 30 minutes north of Atlanta. With its 35,000-square-foot mansion overlooking a sparkling lake, a canopied forest of trees, emerald green lawns, and flowering shrubs, Château Élan is a luxurious resort that features an award-winning winery, inn, conference center, four golf courses, eight restaurants, European-style health spa, equestrian show center, and tennis center.
The winery offers tastings and tours throughout the year, making it a perfect stop on your mom-cation itinerary. And when it comes to relaxation, the Spa at Chateau Élan is celebrated as the Atlanta area’s top spa destination.
Choose to stay in 14 newly renovated spa suites and enjoy numerous spa treatments and experiences. The Spa’s interior is peaceful with elegant furnishings and all the amenities to promote utmost serenity and relaxation. Spa Day Journeys include complimentary access to co-ed whirlpool, dry sauna, wet eucalyptus steam room, indoor swimming pool with resistance jets, fitness classes, and afternoon tea (served 4–5:30 p.m.). A concierge is on staff to assist guests.
Over 20 fitness classes are available each week in the fitness studio, including low-impact aerobics, strength training, body sculpting, Yoga, and Pilates. An aqua aerobics class is also offered in the heated indoor pool at the Spa. Personal training sessions are available in 1-hour and 30-minute increments as well. One-night stays in the Spa Suites begin at $499 and include some spa services.
Renaissance Ross Bridge
4000 Grand Ave
Hoover, Alabama
855-516-1090
How about a mom-cation stay-cation? You can indulge in luxury just around the corner at Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa. Set on over 140 acres of rolling hills in Alabama’s Shannon Valley, Ross Bridge offers the exceptional service and luxury amenities of any posh resort spa. The full-service Spa at Ross Bridge is a pampering Aveda spa and salon, featuring a variety of massage and beauty treatments, including body scrubs and wraps, facials, massage, manicures and pedicures, therapy baths, waxing, steam room, and full salon services. There is a 24-hour fitness center and indoor saltwater and outdoor pools.
The resort also features the fifth-longest golf course in the world and stylish rooms and suites, equipped with elegant furnishings, luxurious bedding, and private balconies boasting astonishing views of the surrounding hills. There are a variety of upscale dining options, including Brock’s, The Clubhouse Restaurant, and JT’s Lounge. There are also fitness trails, lighted tennis courts, and bike rentals for exploring the neighborhood. Rates from $309-$699 per night.
Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa
5000 E. Via Estancia Miraval
Tucson, Arizona 85739
520-825-4000
On 400 picturesque acres north of Tuscon, the Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa is a posh, inclusive resort and spa with creative programs, unique spa treatments, nourishing cuisine, and top wellness specialists. All packages include luxurious accommodations, gourmet meals, unlimited smoothie bar, and freshly prepared snacks throughout the day.
Enjoy a menu of over 120 complimentary wellness activities, lectures and fitness classes; three pools; equine activities; and 24-hour access to the newly renovated Body Mindfulness Fitness Center. With everything from wellness counseling and meditation sessions to challenge courses and horseback riding to a fully functioning farm and apiary, there is something that will stir every mom’s soul.
The resort’s restaurants and lounges—Cactus Flower Restaurant, Palm Court Café, Oasis Poolside Bar, and Brave Bill Lounge—offer inventive menus with dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients that are innovative and delicious (and meals are included in the cost of your stay). Accommodations range from regular rooms to villas with rates starting at $599.
