Image: Hoof It Goat Treks
We look forward to vacation all year long. A highly anticipated three-day weekend or weeklong getaway is often the only time we can slow the speed of our daily routine. And yet, who among us hasn’t been left so stressed out from travel—constant planning, transportation logistics and schedules to maintain—that we find ourselves in need of a vacation after our vacation?
The reality is, it’s hard to disconnect. It takes practice to be completely present in the moment. Galena offers a peaceful oasis in which you can truly be mindful—a vacation where you can immerse yourself in nature, seek balance and enjoy every moment, without worrying about what comes next. Picture yourself escaping to Galena Country.
THE ULTIMATE INDULGENCE
It’s only minutes from shopping and dining options that line Galena’s historic Main Street. Yet, you’ll feel worlds away from your stresses at Indulge Day Spa & Salon inside the Wyndham Galena Hotel & Day Spa. The Bliss Massage earns its name with customized treatments in a spacious massage room to ensure maximum relaxation. Sip on hot tea while selecting your nail color and peruse the tempting lotions, cremes and sprays from their exclusive Aveda line. Perfect for a spa day with the girls, a mother-daughter outing or a solo day of self-care: treat yourself to a facial, manicure and pedicure, blow-out and brow-shaping.
There’s no need to end your pampering there because Galena boasts plenty of swoon-worthy spas. Book a couples massage at Galena Day Spa and receive champagne and chocolate to enjoy with your special someone. This full-service spa inside The Irish Cottage Inn & Suites offers an extensive menu of treatments sure to melt away your concerns. Choose from mud wraps, reflexology, hot stone massages and more.
After a round of golf at one of Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa’s four championship courses, relax your muscles at the resort’s Stonedrift Spa, which spoils you with organic skin care treatments, body exfoliation and Reiki Energy Therapy. Or go for the Tranquility spa package to experience a signature massage, facial and pedicure.
If there was ever an excuse to turn off your phone, a Galena spa day is it. Breathe deeply and notice each touch, sound and aroma as you relax into the present.
FIND PEACE IN NATURE
There’s no better way to create a mindfulness practice than by getting in touch with nature. Galena Country’s outdoor trails, preserves and parks offer endless opportunities to clear your mind in the open air.
Explore rare bird habitats and thousands-year-old Native American archeological sites conserved and protected by Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation (JDCF), with the aid of a self-guided tour pamphlet provided by JDCF at Horseshoe Mound Preserve or Casper Bluff Land & Water Reserve. Stroll or cycle along the scenic eight-mile Galena River Trail, just minutes from downtown Galena. Continue into Buehler Preserve to enjoy tranquil woodland.
Whether you choose to hike through natural prairie restoration at Galena Gateway Park or birdwatch from the trails of the Valley of Eden Bird Sanctuary, your senses will be awakened.
SOLITUDE AT ITS FINEST
When you really want to escape it all and maximize your alone time—or quality time with a loved one—take advantage of an in-room massage. Book a stay at one of Galena’s boutique inns, and you won’t need to leave the comfort of your idyllic suite or cabin. These bed & breakfasts are heavenly retreats with hospitality that reaches above and beyond their sumptuous, organic fare.
For those who want to lodge within walking distance of the cafes and shops of Main Street, book a stay at Jail Hill Inn and make a reservation with a certified massage therapist for a customized, in-room spa experience. Enjoy the picturesque view of downtown Galena from Lamberson Guest House, but opt to stay in for a day at this elegant 1870 inn for a Swedish full-body massage or Chinese facial in the privacy of your room. Or enjoy relaxing in a private garden at Farmers Guest House before or after a selection from the rejuvenating treatments offered at The Studio—the inn’s on-site private massage room.
BAA-MASTE
For many, mindfulness and yoga go hand in hand. But have you ever tried goat yoga? At Galena Goat Yoga, you will summon joy into your life in the most unexpected way. Serve as a perch for a new four-legged friend as you engage in plank pose, or simply gaze at these cute companions as you practice sun salutations. Want to take a walk in nature with a few goat pals? Hit the trail with Hoof It Goat Treks and explore Galena’s woodlands and prairies as the kids frolic and play. However you interact with these sweet, calming animal partners, your goat relaxation experience will surely ground you and lift your spirits.
Worries melt away in Galena Country! Ready to plan your relaxing escape? Grab your official visitor's guide, book your stay, and get ready to immerse yourself in the sweet serenity of Galena Country. Your getaway begins now!