The Umstead Hotel and Spa

Every year since my wife and I got married (5 years) I choose a 5 star hotel and spa to visit every year around her birthday in December. This year I chose Umstead and what a good choice I made! Awesome customer service, attention to detail in the rooms and Herons was amazing along with the Bar service too! In room dining was great and the customer service with in room dining took the cake! The Spa experience was top notch all the way around! My wife and I got massages and facials, and we were so relaxed afterwards! Even the turn down service was immaculate! I definitely recommend this great Hotel!

What a wonderful surprise – this hotel is extremely well run with an emphasis on pleasing guests.|From the moment you walk in, you are greeted and acknowledged, and assisted in every possible way. What stands out most for me in this hotel is the cleanliness. This seems to be a lost art in the hospitality business – housekeeping. Although this hotel is several years old, my room was absolutely immaculate and stayed that way during the entire visit from the showers to the sinks to the bed to the bar area. Everything was immaculate. Turn down service in the evening was very nice with exceptional detail to replacing used items tidying up and making the room comfortable - I don’t see this anymore in five star hotels. Small things like cleaning glasses and leaving the cleaning cloth behind for use, replenishing, complementary water, and preparing the bed. By the way, the bed was one of the most comfortable I’ve stayed in - in many years.|I was unaware of any nice hotels in the Raleigh Durham area so it was very surprised too See this Hotel and I will certainly be back.

It did take a while for the room to be ready, but other than that everything was great. Everyone was pleasant, and seemed like they actually enjoyed working there. Rooms smelled nice. Everyone was accommodating

I truly amazing place to be located in Raleigh this is a five-star hotel with a five-star restaurant known as Heron's. I don't even know where to start as someone who's come from this industry for many years I was truly impressed by everything that they offered the little details attention to customer service and the staff for all very friendly and helpful. It was our first time here but we will definitely be back.

We had an incredible stay at the Umstead Hotel. We only stayed for one night, as we were driving from the north down to our home in the south, but we definitely plan to return for a longer stay sometime. Everything about the hotel is top-notch. We splurged on an executive suite and it was definitely an amazing room - very large and very well-appointed. Although the hotel is nearly 20 years old, we saw no signs of wear or tear on any of the furnishings. Everything is incredibly well-maintained, with lots of wood tones and artwork that reflect the hotel's commitment to integrating nature and art. We had a nice big balcony overlooking the lake and forest - so relaxing. ||We didn't plan ahead so weren't able to reserve space for dinner at the hotel's restaurant, but our in-room dinner from room service was absolutely exquisite. Breakfast in the restaurant the next day was equally superb. ||The hotel's fitness center isn't big but it's adequate and we were able to get in a decent workout. ||The hotel's commitment to sustainability is clearly evident. For example, they provided spring water in the rooms in reusable metal bottles. And the water provided in the gym was in recyclable cardboard-type bottles. Not a plastic water bottle in sight!||We found the staff to be very professional and helpful. ||We can definitely see why this is a five-start hotel (and the only one in NC). As I said, we'll definitely be back.

The Umstead was a special surprise! I was attending a conference so hadn’t done any research ahead of time. Upon arriving, the staff was amazing. The room was very nice, but it was the special touches I appreciated like them leaving a bookmark on my book, a cleaning cloth for my sunglasses, a phone charger cord keeper and some amazing chocolates. Just a wonderful experience!

This hotel is worth the price tag if you can swing it. The service was fabulous from the front desk who remembered my name, the housekeeping guy who brought us a new coffee machine because we had trouble with the first, and the servers in Heron’s Restaurant were also very attentive, warm and funny. The rooms are plush and in very good condition. The air conditioning works well. There was no outside noise to wake us up. The room was serviced several times, including turning down beds and night, laying out slippers and bathrobes, wrapping up our charging cables with a small piece of leather with a snap, placing 2 super fancy chocolate truffles in the room, and more. Heron’s Restaurant is excellent. I highly recommend the tasting menu for dinner. We were served 5 courses plus 3 elegant amuse bite and several tiny sweets to take in an elegant box. Service was great. Plus, breakfast and lunch were very good too. Photos are from the tasting menu.

My husband and I celebrated my birthday at the hotel. It was truly a wonderful way to commemorate another year. The hotel staff, from the valet, to the lobby/check-in personnel, to the service crew in the restaurants, all were professional, genuine, and accommodating. I highly recommend this establishment to anyone to celebrating a special event, or to simply get away and relax.

BEWARE, this looks like a European spa hotel on the website. It's actually a hotel with a separate al la carte spa. You may be told that hotel guests get preference for spa treatments, you may have bought a 'package' that says you get a 200 dollar treatment credit.. The truth is that you can pay 1600 dollars a night for the "By Design" spa package -- only to find out when you arrive that all spa treatments are booked! AND since it's an a la carte spa, you cannot even enter the spa without booking a treatment! Complete joke. Please take note above, there's a significant chance that you buy a package and show up and all you have is an overpriced hotel room with no way to access the spa. 1600 dollar/night "package", even saying the room is 'spa level', you do not have access to the spa, don't make that assumption!

The reviews are true that it is difficult to book an appointment. I've had a gift card for several years that I first initially tried to use in 2022. I called to schedule a massage in May 2022 and the soonest appointment I could get was early July. By the time I came for my appointment I was 9 weeks pregnant. Upon arrival I was told I couldn't get a massage in the first trimester. Graciously the staff allowed me to stay and take advantage of the spa amenities and I felt very cared for during this visit. Fast forward to spring 2024, not pregnant and ready to use my gift card! I went online in early March to book an appointment and their online booking system is terrible. It's not possible to find the soonest appointment available easily: you have to click on each individual day to be told "no appointments available" or not. I got so fed up with this I called the spa. Took a bit to reserve over the phone as well but I set up an appointment for late April for a 60 minute classic massage. I enjoyed my massage and felt very relaxed afterward. I also took advantage of some of the spa amenities including the indoor whirlpool. Across from the whirlpool is a new feature - salt walls. I did think it was interesting that there was a sign there that said "Please keep voices low so that guests may enjoy their stay" (not word-for-word but along those lines). This is where my issue with the Umstead Spa came in. The spa is designed so that the bathroom area and showers come straight into the spa - there is no door that separates them. I found the sound of hair dryers, flushing toilets, and the bathing suit drying machine to be more disturbing than those around me having a conversation. I think it would really improve the overall experience if there was a door that separated the two spaces. Overall, my experience with The Umstead Spa was three stars. My only other spa visit was to Aji Spa in Phoenix, Arizona and they set the bar so, so high for me with both the booking process and the spa visit. I would go back to Aji in a heartbeat, whereas I will probably only come back to Umstead if I have a gift card again.

I enjoyed the most delayed but relaxing birthday massage ever. Apparently Umstead spa had a renovation that made it impossible to find an open slot to book for my birthday 5/19. I settled for the next available day which took place today and the environment was so comforting. I didn't get to experience the steam room, but the lounges were nice, the atmosphere, the whirlpool, the co-ed outdoor whirlpool was so nice. The bath & body products available for use while patronizing the establishment smell so good and feel nice on the skin. I booked the coastal massage 80 min with Chengwei, he provided a relaxing massage experience. I'll have to return at a later date. Unika B. & Co.

I went there with a visiting friend. When we entered our room, linens were on chairs and not put away. When we entered the restaurant for lunch and wanted seats near a window, we were told NO because they said a larger group would soon arrive. (What does that have to do with our request to sit near a window? Every restaurant I've ever eaten at I've ALWAYS requested a window seat, and it's never been a problem.) At dinner, we were given an appetizer we didn't ask for, and I never in a million years would have requested -- caviar, aka fish eggs. The mere thought of it made me sick. Don't waste your money!

DO NOT BUY A GIFT CARD HERE! If you live locally, you can not use it on the weekend - only Mon-Thurs - in the day time. You will probably have to book 3 months in advance. They are rude and pretentious.

Complete sham of a property. I could give better massages with both arms behind my back

Great place to get away and ECU Alumni works there which means leadership. You're in great hands and will be taken care of completely. I highly recommend going there for any occasion the Pirate ECU Alumni always do there jobs to perfection so you won't be disappointed!

I honestly don't understand the poor reviews. I mean it's not Canyon Ranch. It's not Blue Water Medical Spa. It's a non-medical spa in Raleigh. We were there for a staycation and we really enjoyed all the amenities including massage mani and pedi. The service is amazing and all the spa amenities are so enjoyable. Great for a couples get away. Seriously give it a try

I'm so frustrated with the Umstead. I have called 6 times now trying to book a spa appointment as a gift and every time I get no answer, we can't book for the month of May even as late as April 25, and now I can't book anything 2 months out. I give up. If you can somehow get in to this place it's great, but their customer service on the front end is a total disaster.

Please notice all the negative reviews! (positive ones are years old) Like many of the other recent negative customer experiences, my daughter & I received LARGE gift cards to spend the day there- We are past customers even... They sold gift cards through out their closed renovations without notifying the purchaser, definitely not a classy and upstanding business thing to do. The Umstead has lost a past and future customer.

Awful service. I spent one hour today trying to reserve some spa services. Called 9 times. Could never reach a human being. It's obvious they don't care, will take business elsewhere

I took my mother in law to have afternoon tea here before covid and it was a great experience. But for the price, I can't justify returning. We had a lovely harpist playing when we were there which made it very special. But for the small amount of food that we got, and the quality, it was very lackluster. Afternoon tea is supposed to be small, but I've had it in a few other local areas around here, and they're cheaper with more food, and better quality.

I enjoyed my Mother's Day / Birthday Gift at the Umstead. I would definitely say this place was just okay. The spa was easy to find. They have an option for valet or you can find parking yourself. I found parking myself. The parking lot had plenty of available spaces and the walk from the lot to the spa wasn't bad. The staff at the door was amazing they greeted me with a smile and everyone that worked there stopped to speak. You have to get on the elevator and go down 1 to access the spa. I was amazed at huge the place is. I checked in with the front desk clerk and she was really nice I sat waited for like 5 mins and they came and got me. I was so impressed with the lady whom showed me around her name was Mary and she ABSOLUTELY amazing she answered every question that I had and she made sure that I was okay. They have locker room available for changing clothes, swim suit dryer and shower for your personal needs. I felt like the quality of service that you receive there is just average. My pedicure + massage was just average. I've definitely had better. I also feel like they should give you a list of things you might should bring before you come for example a swimsuit (I brought mines because a friend told me) Overall just okay!

We received a gift card we would like to use at the spa for a couples massage. We had been to this spa several times prior to their remodel and enjoyed the service. Have called since they reopened and can not get an appointment. Priority goes to guests staying at the hotel. They only see "local clients" Monday-Thursday. Called today and was told to call on July 23 for a "chance" at getting an appointment October 23! Ridiculous! I was told "don't worry, you can use the gift card anywhere on the umstead property, you can use it to stay at the hotel". But I don't want to stay at the hotel since I live 6 miles away! Horrible!

Not anything like it once was. I have been to the Umstead Spa a few times before Covid and the re-model. Each of those times were fabulous. I had all day access (facial and message). I could go to the outside pool (the big one), go upstairs and dine for lunch then come back down for the next treatment, then go back to the pool and later come back in using the Spa facilities to shower etc before leaving for home. It was so relaxing and delightful....not anymore. Now "visitors" to the Spa are time restricted (my treatment was at 10:15 and I was told I needed to vacate the facility by 12:00 pm (I was allowed to enter at 9:30). I could not leave the spa at all at any point if I did I would not be able to return. So having the option to split my treatments with either lunch by the pool or upstairs in the bar area was over.....can't return. I wanted to take my time between getting in the steam and sauna and cold shower before the facial....no time to do that either as I was told to be in the waiting area 10 minutes (10:05) before my scheduled. My spa technician was running behind so that did not happen until around 10:25. When I got back to the locker area it was 11:00, I had no time to do anything other than shower dry my hair and leave. I felt like I was in Spa prison. I felt like I was in school, rushing between bells to get to my next class so I would not be tardy. It was just awful. What was suppose to be a relaxing wonderful experience turned out to be an anxiety filled 2 1/2 hours. I hated it. It was beyond disappointing. I let my daughter know and we agreed going forward we will head to the Grove Park in Asheville for the ultimate spa experience...and locally if I want a facial I'll go the Lifetime.

Beautiful Spa! My technician focused on my problem areas and really listened to my concerns. Services started on time and I felt fully relaxed before I even started! One of the best Spas in the Carolinas. My go to in the hotel also when I want a staycation.

Well... I mean... It was nice and all, but if my favorite part was the shower then something is off. My mother and I came here for a pedicure, massage, and leisurely spa day. Gotta be real with y'all, the massage was sub-par. If you have never had a massage before, it'll be great! If you know a good massage and appreciate folks who know muscle attachment points and understand what a glute massage should feel like, then don't go here. This spa is for a broad strokes experience rather than services based on therapeutic approach to massage treatments. In other words: What. A. Bummer. My mom enjoyed her pedicure very much. Her toes looked great (as always)! It was a lovely day to share with my mother in from out of town, but I won't be back.

Wow, shocked to see such harsh reviews! I visited the spa today and received a 50 min Swedish massage from Jeff and a 50 min European facial from Rose. First, my massage was definitely the best I've ever had! Jeff asked if I had any areas I'd like him to focus on, and he was SO kind, asking if I wanted him to adjust pressure, making sure I was comfortable. As a Massage Envy member, and recipient of frequent massages, it was easy to tell how much experience he has. Incredible! After my massage, I had a facial by Rose and I was so pleased with how comfortable she made the bed, asked if I wanted her to tell me what she was doing (which I declined), and how thorough she was with my extractions. My skin looks great, and she was wonderful! I opted to enjoy the spa amenities after my services and thoroughly enjoyed the whirlpool tub and sauna (and a very long hot shower :) Sure, their services are pricey. Not surprising for a high end hotel. BUT, their services and staff were top notch, not to mention their exceptionally clean facility. Looking forward to returning!

I waiting for over an hour on the phone and finally had my husband call to see if he got through before me. His call was answered in less than 30 minutes and when I mentioned this to the lady she was rude. After all that effort, there was nothing available on the Monday I was trying to book a month from now. They should at least mention on the website how far out things are booked or allow open scheduling. A complete waste of my time.

Many of the reviews here hate on this spa. I have mixed feelings. For a full service day spa they are really the only one directly in the Triangle area. There are a few other small day spas, but none really have the amenities that the Umstead Spa has. I will agree that the booking staff seem to be a hot mess. I went in the Summer and was assured I could use the pool during the day on Friday. Of course when I arrived I was told I couldn't use the outdoor pool, it was for hotel guests only. I held my ground, look I get it if the pool was packed but it was Friday at 10am there was literally not one other person in the whole pool area when I arrived. None!! I was fine not staying at the pool all day and being gone before the weekend crowd checked in. I think they should be more flexible with their spa guests (who are spending quite a chunk of money). When the pool is dead there is no reason a spa guest shouldn't be able to enjoy it. The whole morning I was at the pool I probably saw a total of three people. My only other note is to make this a full scale day spa I think they should have a spa cafe or some way to get light bites at the spa. They have multiple restaurants on site so you think this would be an option. Okay on to the good stuff!! I did think the locker room was nice as well as the hot tub. The spa hot tub did get quite crowded, but that is bound to happen if a girls weekend group is there. I also enjoyed the co-ed heated tiny pool outside. I was the only one out there for most of my time there. I found the upstairs relaxation rooms to be relaxing and inviting. I also really enjoyed my 90 minute massage. Overall I will be back since really if you don't want to drive to Charlotte but want to spend a full day at the spa, the Umstead is your best bet!

Currently open with restrictions, but definitely worth it! My wife and I both agree that they provide the best massages and service. Absolutely splendid service and amenities. There is a 45 min use of the spa after your service because of COVID that helps limits the number of people. The outdoor hot tub is available.

I have had a 200 dollar gift card given to me for over 3 years ago by my daughter as which has been impossible to even schedule an appointment finally decided since I was in the Raleigh area. That I could use my gift card for my daughter's birthday. They require you to wear a mask in which in but not during your pedicure. I had an appointment for my daughter to use part of it and mine was I. The evening. While my daughter was waiting for her appointment. Which no one else was around but us I was asked to leave because for health reason could not. Makes no sense the thinking behind asking me to leave. I have not been able to enjoy the gift given by my daughter who is a doctor because of their all their rules behind the spa. Don't buy a spa gift card for anyone their it been a bad hurtful joke to me. Heart broken mother. Thank you Jessica for your poor delivery

STAR RATING FOR SPA ONLY The Hotel PROS * The 'hotel' experience here was EXCELLENT. Service was consistently gracious and impeccable. * Atmosphere very elegant--many nice-touches (fresh flowers and interesting, artful natural arrangements at every turn, comfy beds, excellent food, special, personalized touches.) CONS * Being the dead of winter, I was hoping for a warmer, cozier ambiance. I was a bit chilly in the halls, walking to the spa. I came from New England, where most of the high-end spas have a cozy, winter-escape vibe--fireplaces, warmth--didn't get that feeling here. * I had associated the name "Umstead" with a sprawling, natural, even maybe a little off-the-grid setting, and that was not the case. The place basically sits on the campus of a huge corporation. Being winter, trees are bare so you can can see the highway. I definitely didn't feel removed from an office-y, artificially landscaped, corporate environment, as I hoped. (It kind of seemed like the place was doubling as a public destination and also built for meetings/conferences/overnight stays of visiting big-wigs, of the company who's grounds it sat on) The Massage * The massage definitely was not the duration of 50 mins, as advertised. It always feels like cutting corners when a place offers "50 mins" instead of a full hour. It sends a subtle message that they are prioritizing business logistics before the client experience. * Despite having already selected the type of massage you'd like, there's a 5 min 'consultation' in the room before you begin. So now it's a 45 min massage. * I felt the masseuse was rushing as she moved along my body. Transitions from one area to the next were abrupt and jerky. It was like she was just trying to fit everything in or get it over with... It was making me very aware of time passing. * It was not 45 minutes. It was more like 35. Which is insulting, given how pricy it was.

I want to live here! I checked in on a busy Saturday afternoon. Covid protocol in place and it was was very clean and socially distanced. We were not able to use the many & fantastic amenities afterwards for more than 45 minutes after a service but it was a lovely, relaxing spa. I had a fantastic 50 minute Swedish massage and Yvette was perfect. She adjusted everything to my liking. From light in the room, music, aromatherapy and massage table warmth. I couldn't have asked for a more wonderful spa experience. I used the zen garden, the lounge and took a wonderfully long hot shower with the amazing soap. I wanted to shower for an hour (hey, that rhymes) the soap was so yummy. They also gave me a refreshing cucumber water to go AND they gave me a scrumptious body lotion to use & take home. This is how a spa is supposed to be.

They are STILL operating under COVID protocols and not letting customers use the full facilities. I have a gift card that's been languishing for years due to this policy. We've all been vaxed for almost 2 years now, honey, it's time to let go...

Had an amazing spa experience this weekend with a few of my close sorority sisters. We stayed in the hotel on the spa level and that really makes the difference. Nothing special about the actual spa menu--pretty standard. But the spa amenities are wonderful. Eucalyptus infused steam and sauna rooms. Salt pool is serene. Lounge areas are divine and naps in the meditation room are bliss! I can see why this is a 5 diamond star AAA spa! You won't be disappointed!

Amazing spa services! I have had massages and pedicures at the umstead. The service is exceptional and the technicians are clearly well trained. The amenities are an amazing complement to the service as well - sauna, whirlpool, refreshments, and lounging area.... It is a must try treat! Just be prepared to spend a good bit of money!

Completely over priced for super average service. Save your money and your time. I paid $200 for the most average 35 minute massage I have ever had in my life that should have only cost $50. I arrived 30 minutes early, but the masseuse arrived 7 minutes past my start time. She dropped me off in the room and waited 5 minutes to come back. And she ended the massage early, walking around, cleaning up while I was still on the table. The result was that I paid $170 for. A 35 minute massage. And they forced me to pay a $34 tip. Skip this overpriced place and go to hand and stone or massage envy instead.

I have been to the Umstead several times in the past and had an amazing time but now everything has changed. 1. The worst customer service when booking. Staff is rude, short and they simply don't want you to book an appointment. If you are not staying at the hotel they DO NOT WANT YOU 2. Prices are subject to change, even after you book! The new price will not be disclosed to you until it is time to PAY after your service. Literal robbery. 3. You used to have to book a spa service of $100 in order to have access to the day spa (jacuzzi, steam room, etc) NOW THEY ARE INCREASING TO 150$ That is an increase of 50%! So basically if you are local, they don't want you to come. They treat you like dirt. I am so sad writing this review. I tried to book a bachelorette party for 6 people, we were going to spend over 1,000$ there and they genuinely made us feel unwanted, like we were a huge imposition, and told us we were going to have to pay more and more and more until finally we took our money elsewhere. You are a local business, stop treating local people like dirt. It is clear that they no long want locals to come to the spa. They have always prioritized the hotel guests but now, they just flat out don't want your business if you are not staying there.

I've heard such amazing things about the Umstead Spa, so I was thrilled when my work treated us to a spa day. However, I left less than impressed. Because of Covid you couldn't go in and enjoy the amenities prior to your appointment. By the time we got in and got our robes on, we were taken right to our appointments. I had a 50 min swedish massage, and it was the WORST massage I've ever had. The lady was so rough, breathing heavily the entire time, and when I flipped over she rubbed my legs for 2 mins and said we were done. I seriously felt like I was man-handled and beat up - it was not relaxing AT ALL. I was bruised for days after. All I could do was laugh, but I've paid way less for much better massages elsewhere. I also did the european facial, and while that was 100x more relaxing than the massage, it wasn't anything special either. Once finished we had to get dressed and leave. I honestly wouldn't pay to return here again. There are much cheaper spas with better services all around the state. Save your money!

We stayed at the hotel and the only time they could squeeze us in for a massage was at 7pm. Seeing that they close at 8pm, we asked to come in the next morning for 30 mins to use the steam sauna as this was our anniversary and we flew in from Florida just for this. The spa manager, Mark, was incredibly rude and basically told us where we could go. After spending $750, this was a brutal experience and we won't ever be back.

Really bad customer service! The massage therapists were awesome but the attendants were rude (specifically Jan). We were told when we booked the reservation that we would have 45 minutes to enjoy the amenities (which is way too short, especially if you are staying in the hotel). During our time in the current pool we ordered drinks that were brought out by a very nice gentleman. He never mentioned that we would not have enough time to finish them before Jan would rudely come over to tell us that we only had 5 more minutes before we would need to check out of the spa. I asked if I could shower and she said yes but several times while I was trying to get dressed she came over and made comments trying to get me to hurry. After I quickly dressed and combed out my hair (yes I left the spa with wet hair - in December!), I told her I needed to go the coed lounge to find my husband and she said - "No, you need to come with me & you need to leave now! I will go get your husband and bring him to meet you in the lobby" She was so rude to me that I literally left in tears, with wet hair to check in to the Umstead hotel to celebrate my 25th wedding anniversary. We could have gone back to The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island, SC, we could have gone back to the Grandover in Greensboro but we chose the Umstead Hotel to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary and we weren't asking for anyone to bend over backwards to make us feel special, but we did expect courtesy, respect and kindness. I sent this review to the Umstead before posting here to give them a chance to respond. Unfortunately when the customer service representative called she just wanted to offer excuses and justify the poor behavior of her spa concierge. She was also rude to me on the phone so I can see that it starts with the management. I will not be back (and they obviously could care less). Save your money and don't waste it at the Umstead Spa!!!

I have enjoyed going to Umstead for tea times, birthday dinners and weddings. I had intended to celebrate a milestone birthday/relaxing girls weekend at the Umstead and Spa. Unfortunately, I was so turned off by customer service (should be pristine in my mind for a 5-star hotel) that I canceled my reservations. The lady I spoke to in reservations had no interest in trying to help me, she simply wanted to talk at me and get me off the phone. I've heard lovely things about the spa and in most cases I've had many pleasant times at Umstead. But, I can't endorse paying a small fortune to be "spoiled" only to have my first experience be "spoiled"

Very rude and nasty attitude by all employees I came in contact with. This place would make so much money if the Spa owner and employees were replaced by people who have a clue what customer service even means. To keep calling and failing to get a spa appointment is totally unacceptable. To have a rude owner who treats customers like trash is unimaginable. How they have stayed in business is beyond me.

I purchased a gift certificate for my sister this weekend in hopes that she'll take some time for herself. This afternoon I called to schedule a service for her. A gentleman by the name of Lee attended me. He greeted me kindly but shortly after his tone changed. Not sure if he was bothered by the number of questions I was asking regarding the spa. He was short in his responses and at times cut me off. I booked a service and proceeded to clarify a few other details. At the end I felt as if he was doing me a favor. I really hope this is not a reflection of the general service at the Umstead Hotel and Spa. It would be very disappointing.

I can't say enough good things about this place. Of all the spas I have ever been to, this takes the #1 slot. $140 for a 50 min swedish massage. Pricey, yes. But included with that price is use of the facilities which are worth every penny. Natural lit showers, cold showers, steam room, sauna, indoor whirlpool, outdoor co-ed whirlpool, women's lounge, co-ed lounge.... all fantastic. The lounges have fluffy blankets to curl up with and sip tea. Have some snacks and read a magazine by the fireplace. This place is the definition of relaxation. The massage was also great. Tables are heated to just the right temp and the masseuse really knew what she was doing. This place is worth the drive from NJ and I'm already trying to plan a trip back.

If I could give it fewer than one stars I would. What a pretentious obnoxious place. My husband got me a spa gift certificate for my birthday. Already the size of the card that holds the certificate is highly questionable. It's square and huge. There is no way that it can fit in any standard wallet. It's aggravating that I have to carry that stupid thing in my purse and check on it for fear that it may get lost. I called to make a reservation and I waited 9 minutes and 45 second to talk to an actual human being. No chance to leave a voice mail message and I can't hang up for fear of losing my "place in line". When the attendant finally comes on the phone all I can do is hang up. Time's up and I am really pissed off. I call again hours later and ask the receptionist who picks up to not transfer me but take a message. A man with a fake British accent calls back and I make an appointment, then he tells me that no phones can be used on premises (another inconvenience) and I should leave it at home or in one of their lockers. He also tells me that I should come to the appointment 30 minutes early (what??? More inconvenience) and then also tells me the prices of the treatments including tip. A tip is not a right. It is up to me to tip. At their absolutely ridiculous prices, telling me the price including the tip is 1. Conceited and 2. Insulting. And it's not what they publish on their website. I tell him as much and ask him to tell his manager that all of those inconveniences against the customer are counterproductive and just absolutely ridiculous. I get a call back from a lady who also tries to fake some type of foreign accent. She tells me that the phone but is to "preserve the serenity of the customers of the spa". I tell her that's rich. They obviously could care less for the serenity of their customers. Meanwhile I am really mad about that stupid gift certificate. Thanks for nothing. I have now used the certificate and the place remains pretentious. They have waiting rooms upstairs and downstairs. There are no clocks on the wall and with no phone, no way to tell the time. If you ask one of those women who's supposed to get one to one's appointment on time, for the time, she will find an excuse not to tell you. Once I was left in a waiting room downstairs and it was just lucky that I decided to go upstairs because my facialist was looking for me. The waiting room upstairs is for both men and women. While everyone is wearing a robe, I don't really think that's appropriate. For a $365 gift certificate I was only able to get two $140.00 (not including tip) facials and I have 27.00 left that I will probably have to use at their cafe.

While the facilities are beautiful the services are rather unimpressive. The facial I received yesterday was so basic, my 11 year old daughter could have done better. The products used were unpleasant smelling and bland. After having facials at other spas, I can honestly say save your money, your skin, and go somewhere else.

This place is amazing as a treat for women and men alike. While I don't think they have the best massage therapist in the business, they have the best ambiance any spa can offer. I absolutely love the idea of relaxing for an hour or two prior to my scheduled massage. The staff is extremely professional and catering to your needs. Pros: very clean and nice atmosphere; impeccable service; snacks and drinks are tasty; facilities are 5-star. Cons: pricey no matter what service you get; massage staff is similar to what you would find at a massage envy. In short, treat yourself to something nice at Umstead Spa once or twice a year. Any more than that is just excessive.

I absolutely love this spa! I'm so lucky to live in Cary. I booked a body treatment and facial on a Thursday. I accidentally locked myself out of the house and had to cancel the facial. They were very understanding and didn't charge me for the missed appointment. I thought that was very nice as website clearly states if you have to cancel within a certain time you will be charged. I continued on with my body treatment that day. I spent probably 3-4 hours at the spa including my treatment. The women's spa area is open and airy. The showers are glorious. You can see tree tops while you shower. The steam room uses the most refreshing eucalyptus I've ever experienced. The mixed gender pool is amazing when the weather is cool as it is heated. The treatment rooms are large and with views of the natural surroundings without being exposed. You can choose to relax in the mixed gender lounge upstairs or the one within the women's spa area. Both have very comfortable seating, snacks and fireplaces. Everyone on staff is very attentive while still providing privacy. This spa is wonderful. I highly recommend spending an afternoon here.

I decided to celebrate my birthday at the spa per the recommendation of one of my friends. I'm so glad I took the advice! I felt like a queen the entire time I was there. I was welcomed with a "happy birthday" and then the concierge took me on a tour. I had an aromatherapy massage and Jeff did an amazing job. Afterwards, we got in the pool, jacuzzi, steam room, and sat in the relaxation areas. I highly recommend disconnecting from your phone and spending time investing in self care. I plan to return in a few months.

How does this place stay in business?? I called to schedule a prenatal massage for this weekend or next weekend. I was told that this weekend was booked, okay fine, but that I couldn't book an appointment for next weekend until after 10am next Thursday. Um, what? They hold all spa reservations for hotel guests ONLY until Thursday! You can't book weekend appointments in advance here! Who do these people think they are? I moved here from DC and have booked hundreds of spa appointments at hotels and I've never heard of a policy like this. Guess they only want the "locals" to come in on weekdays. Too bad I got a gift card that I'm not sure I'll ever be able to use. So much for a prenatal massage before my baby comes! If we didn't like dining at Herons so much I'd probably never go back here.

The Umstead Spa is beautiful. Great amenities and layout--reminds me a lot of Four Seasons in San Francisco. Other than a customer service snafu (which was rectified) our experience was fabulous! Snafu: My husband and I booked a couples massage 7pm on a Saturday night (date night). Our treatments were wonderful. Great work by both of our massage therapists. We both felt incredibly rushed to get out of the massage room (which was a bit stressful), so we did and headed to use the spa amenities. There was no water (mmm you kind of need that post massage) and nothing (sauna) was turned on. It turns out that the spa closed at 8pm (right at the time our massage ended) yet no one told us! Not at the time of reservation, not at the time of checkin and not at the time of treatment, In fact, the massage therapists even suggested we go into the steam room post massage. Weird. Suffice it t say we feel like we missed on a big part of the spa experience. We were given two spa passes to use the amenities at a later date. 4 months later and we still haven't used them--hard to justify paying for a baby sitter! Ha!

I have to agree with Amanda's review that the spa itself is good, but the policy related to supporting local patrons is terrible. Call to book a Friday appointment and you get told you cannot unless you are staying at the hotel. The word is that you should just lie and say you'll be staying there but I am not going to do that. The locker rooms are also nice. My therapist was good. I tried to rebook an appointment for 2 months out and got the same "if you live in town, we won't allow you to book on Fridays or the weekends." If they are that busy, they should add therapists or do something. When the economy slows and they don't have the hotel full, they will wish they had treated local patrons well. So its a good spa, but be prepared for some pain if you live locally. For Umstead, open up even a handful of appointments on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays for locals and you will have less upset patrons.

I had one of the best experiences over two days here I have ever had at any spa...I was in town passing through and tried to call to get a massage for the next day but couldn't because it was basically zero notice, so I completely understood but they were able to get me in the following day...I've read previous reviews where people were upset because they had flown in and couldn't get a service but with how busy it is, if a spa treatment is what you want then I would definitely call as soon as you can to book the treatment you want. My massage was wonderful and my pedicure as well, the sauna area and steam room are fantastic and they have nice waiting areas that are also very relaxing...after how wonderful it was I would definitely come back to Raleigh just to stay for a long spa weekend, would definitely recommend

Review of Spa only: They have a silly booking policy that is helpful to be aware of. In short, if you do not stay on site, do not plan on getting any reservations for the spa. I called months in advance and was told of the policy to reserve spots for guests of the hotel (which, one one hand almost makes sense in terms of exclusivity, but from a business standpoint is absurd). I was told to call back the week of to make a spa reservation, of which there were none. It makes no sense from a business standpoint to run at such low capacity. Compare spa prices to national 5 star spas (Ritz etc.) and they're up there. That a business would refuse $500 for services means they need to increase capacity or efficiency.

I've never even been able to get an appointment at the spa or a reservation at the hotel despite a few attempts recently. I'm from the Northeast where if you are in the business of offering a service and there is demand for it, then you have the capacity to supply it. This place seems to pride itself on letting people know they are booked when you call to make reservations, and all but lecturing the customer that they should have tried to book way further in advance before they even had a chance to become a customer. Based on other reviews from people who have shelled out for what may be subpar service once you're lucky enough to get in, I'm not sure I'm missing out.

I think I'm about ready to give up on this place. I have tried 4 or 5 times in the last 9 months to book concurrent treatments for me and my mother without success. Every time I call, they have no availability for 80 minute treatments even with over a week notice for a weekday. I don't know if they are understaffed or what. I just know that when I've gone by myself, the place is pretty empty so I'm not sure why it is always so hard to get. As for the massage therapists- they have been hit or miss. Some are very skilled, others seem to have little training or knowledge. Not what you want when paying $200+ for an 80 minute massage.

This spa was one of the worst spa experiences I have ever had. Beyond terrible customer service, especially for the price. Staff were rude and unaccommodating: