Take a deep breath and unwind with us

For generations, Saranac Lake has presided over the Adirondacks as a health and wellness destination. Dating all the way back to the late 1800s when Dr. E.L. Trudeau recognized that the peaceful environment and crisp mountain air seemed to provide a cure for tuberculosis, this mountain town has been hard at work to offer rest and restoration to residents and visitors alike.

Since then, Saranac Lake’s mission of wellness has blossomed, with resort-level spas, organic and sustainable shopping, yoga studios, and a majestic wilderness to escape to just steps from town. And what better time to indulge in all Saranac Lake has to offer than in spring? Take advantage of a wide range of services, with holistic healing practices like forest bathing, deep tissue massages provided by licensed therapists, or your own yoga session with the dramatic High Peaks as your background. There are so many options, so we compiled your “must-dos” for your next wellness retreat. 

Spas and yoga

Hotel Saranac’s Ampersand Day Spa

Arguably the crown jewel of Saranac Lake (some may say it's the beautiful Lake Flower that holds this title), the Hotel Saranac sits in its sentinel post at the village center. With a colorful history as a social hub, the hotel offers memorable stays and an extensive list of opportunities to pamper yourself. 

The full-service Ampersand Day Spa offers a range of services. Personalize your experience with customized treatments, with professionals who listen to your needs and deliver world-class results. Relax with a massage, facial, or detoxifying body scrub, and then enjoy refreshments in the relaxation room. Before leaving, stop into the Campfire restaurant within the hotel for a delicious farm-to-table meal.

Wild Rose Ayurveda

It wouldn’t be a proper wellness retreat without time to truly reset and restore. Luckily, Wild Rose Ayurveda offers a range of holistic experiences, including yoga classes, hands-on workshops, immersive retreats, community events, and personalized Ayurvedic consultations. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a day outdoors or dive deeper into a restorative practice, Wild Rose Ayurveda provides meaningful ways to reconnect, recharge, and find balance during your time in Saranac Lake.

Take it outside

Adirondack Rail Trail

Saranac Lake’s surrounding forests make for the perfect retreat into the natural calm and serenity of the Adirondacks. And now, it’s easier than ever to step into nature while still doing the activities you love! The new Adirondack Rail Trail connects adventurers to the vast backcountry and neighboring towns, all while on a paved and peaceful trail. The trail spans 34 miles of Adirondack wilderness, connecting you to nearby Lake Placid and Tupper Lake! With no more than a 2% grade, you’ll be able to bike, walk, and run to your destination. Saranac Lake features a paved section spanning the length of town, so if you’re feeling adventurous, you can rollerblade, too. Take advantage of the shopping and culinary scenes of nearby towns, then head back on the trail for a seamless trip back to your basecamp. 

Forest bathing 

If you haven’t heard of forest bathing, let us introduce you. Forest bathing is a popular practice here in the Adirondacks, thanks to the breathtaking scenery and the untouched natural beauty you’ll find here. There are no busy cities or traffic noises to disturb you, only the sounds of the environment! Local guides will steer you on the right path, crafting unique outdoor experiences that will transform how you perceive and relate to nature, allowing you to feel yourself a part of the land in an environment that fosters community and well-being. Forest bathing is a sensory adventure with no goals or objectives. Book a session today and explore the perfect spots around Saranac Lake to reconnect and experience our wild surroundings. 

Shop organic and local 

Nori’s Village Market

Looking for fresh produce, organic finds, and an adorable café to do work in? For 30 years, Nori’s Village Market has provided Saranac Lake with the very best in local, regional, and organic options for farm fresh produce, meats, cheeses, home & beauty, supplements, and so much more. With sustainability and good food at their center, you can feel good about your purchases, all while supporting one of the vital local businesses here. 

Their Grab & Go Deli serves vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free items, featuring sandwiches, wraps, hot meals, vegetarian soups, and more, just steps from the café. Speaking of their café, Riverside Café takes the cake when it comes to the best dining experience in town. Sip on your coffee with a good book or enjoy a smoothie in the outdoor seating area to catch up with your group. There’s plenty of space for everyone, and if your laptop needs charging, outlets are readily available! The cherry on top? No matter when you visit, there’s a smoothie and espresso special waiting just for you. 

The Village Mercantile

Right across from the historic Hotel Saranac resides The Village Mercantile, New York State’s only community-owned department store. A model for local sustainability, the store offers products that are eco-friendly and locally made, and offers items and brands that proudly carry the “Made in the USA” logo. Shop for all-natural, reasonably priced household essentials, clothing for the family, and more! The store is dedicated to helping its customers, whether that comes in the form of ordering something special or directing you where you need to go in town!

Find your new wellness regime

This spring, step into a town dedicated to the wellness of its residents and visitors, with offerings for everyone to relax and rejuvenate for future adventures! From spas and yoga sessions to forest bathing and nature trails, soak up the most of spring wellness this season. Book your wellness retreat today.