What’s better than a spa vacation? A spa vacation in your backyard! Growing up near Cape Cod, Massachusetts, I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy sun and sand within easy reach. But sometimes you take for granted what’s closest to you – I haven’t stayed in a hotel or resort in-state for years.

My mother, a Plymouth local, had always raved to me about this secret spa retreat tucked in the woods off the highway. So we thought we’d play hookie from responsibility one night and go indulge! The Mirbeau Inn and Spa is located right next to Route 3 in Plymouth, a few exits before going over the Bridge to Cape Cod. It’s inside Pine Hills, which is a mini-village full of fun restaurants, shops and more for residents and visitors.

The front entrance is grand, but the real surprises lie behind closed doors. You can’t fully tell how expansive the property is until you check-in and explore. Pulling up to the gravel entrance way, the heavy wooden doors swing wide as you’re greeted by the front desk. Check in right away, or have a cocktail in one of the spacious lounge areas. The one with plush chairs and a fireplace looks especially cozy for wintertime.

The easiest way to travel to Plymouth is to fly into Boston – it’s a little more than an hour’s drive south of the city. Use Skyscanner to compare the best prices on the web. You can try a car service to transport you down to Mirbeau, or rent a car from Logan Airport (try comparing costs via Expedia for the best rates).

A Secret Garden at the Mirbeau Inn and Spa

One of the Mirbeau’s best assets is the outdoor space. Past the lounges is a massive garden space, complete with little amenities like a communal fire pit, zen koi pond and views of the golf course.

They’ve recently expanded to have a cocktail bar and pizza oven, called the Garden Bar. Before a full dinner at The Bistro and Wine Bar, you can have something fruity with a seasonal appetizer. Then, simply stroll over the bridge or past the water wheel and head back to your room. We had a few Aperol spritz drinks, then took our nightcap over to the fire pit to watch the sun go down.

Do note: the Garden Bar and seasonal outdoor seating are only available through October, although the restaurant is open year-round.

Beautiful Rooms for Royalty

Rooms are made for luxury. Stately, classic designs draped in deep royal purples are the ongoing theme through the room’s amenities, from bed to bathroom. There are two options for accommodations – the more elegant Manor House and the Guest House. Most rooms offer a fireplace, claw-footed soaking tubs and a turndown service you can enjoy in one of the plush bathrobes provided. The small, boutique nature of the property is something sought-after by those who desire an intimate wedding or corporate event, as options range from double queen beds to stately one-bedroom suites. The outdoor gardens and indoor gathering halls are perfect for such occasions – they remind me of our trips to the French countryside.

As this property is often used for conferences, golf getaways, and smaller weddings, it’s not as close in proximity to the beach as other hotels in the area. Unfortunately, this means no sea views from the rooms either. Some of the stately rooms face the garden and restaurant, but we had a blocked view of the course. Feel free to chat with the front desk if you prefer a better vista during your stay.

Spa-sen-sational

No visit to Mirbeau Inn and Spa is complete with time at the spa on the bottom floor. Mirbeau’s Spa is the perfect oasis any time of year. Built like a chic European escape, there are several ways to indulge relaxation in this environment. Book a spa treatment complemented by luxury pampering products, and have a light snack at the Aqua Terrace outside while you wait. There’s an extra-large jet pool, as well as several loungers to catch some sun.

But the real showstopper is inside at the relaxation room inside. Plush chaise loungers surrounding a foot soaking bath in this quiet space, gently touched by water sounds and heavenly music. The ceiling looks like a dusky night sky, inviting for a nap or a quick read of a new novel.

Using the spa can be an add-on to your overnight stay, or day passes are also available, ranging in price from weekday to weekend. Spa treatments like facials and massages can also be booked, as well as fitness classes and yoga. Treatments can vary by season and some day passes require additional treatments be booked during high season.

It’s such a lucky thing to have a wonderful escape in our backyard when we feel like some getaway time. The Mirbeau Inn and Spa is worth the splurge and hopefully somewhere we’ll return to again!

When it’s not possible to hop on a plane but you still want to splurge, explore some local options for a memorable staycation. Where’s your favorite spa sanctuary? Who’s your go-to crew when you need an escape?