Lafayette may not be the first place that comes to mind when you want some unmitigated pampering in a tranquil atmosphere. But the French-Norman-castle-inspired Lafayette Park Hotel has an oft-overlooked quaint little spa that offers facials with heated river stones ($115), apricot body glow treatments ($65), and fireside massages ($220 for two people). Lafayette is invariably ten degrees warmer than Oakland or San Francisco, so using the outdoor lap pool and hot tub (included in all prices) is actually feasible. Prices are slightly cheaper than the similarly positioned Claremont Resort.
Readers’ Pick:
Piedmont Springs
3939 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, 510-652-9191
PiedmontSprings.com