Life is stressful, so when you plan your next vacation, you should put relaxation at the forefront of your mind. Everyone has their own way to relax – for some it’s getting out into nature, while others prefer to shop their stress away. Merrimack Valley has such a variety of attractions, hotels, and restaurants that you’re sure to find something to soothe your mind and soul when you visit.
Book Yourself a Luxury Stay
For some, nothing relaxes them more than kicking back in the most luxurious hotel they can find. The Inn at Hastings Park is certainly one of the loveliest boutique hotels in the county, nestled right in the heart of Lexington. It features 22 stylish accommodations, including a lovingly preserved guest house and barn.
The Inn is the perfect place to feel pampered, as you get access to its incredible amenities. Like many hotels, you can indulge in a complimentary continental breakfast, though with a far more elevated menu. Get access to local pools and fitness facilities, or even book golf, tennis, and yoga at private facilities by request. Reserve your spot at Saturday’s high tea to enjoy artfully prepared finger sandwiches, fresh-baked scones, and homemade pastries. You can even book in advance an in-room massage so you can feel the stress melt from your tense muscles.
Go Shopping
Retail therapy can be extremely relaxing, so pop over to Mill No. 5 in Lowell to experience independent stores in a trendy, refurbished old mill. The Shops have all the great ways you can think of to treat yourself. Red Antler Apothecary sells hand-crafted soaps and other products to draw yourself a soothing bath. If you’re a spiritual kind of shopper, One Urban Tribe offers up scented candles, incense, and crystals that could help cleanse your aura of stress. Or just curl up somewhere quiet with a good book from Lowell Book Company. There’s frankly no wrong way to shop your way to relaxation.
Yoga and Animal Therapy
Do you feel calmer when you’re around animals? If so, consider paying Harvard Alpaca Ranch a visit. Located on 5.7 acres of beautiful farmland, you can come see happy, healthy alpacas that will be sure to put a smile on your face. You might even be lucky enough to book a yoga session with the alpacas, which is relaxing, adorable, and something to brag about when your vacation is over.
Walk in Nature
Fresh air and the solitude of nature can be extremely therapeutic. Thoreau understood that when he spent two years living off the land while writing Walden. You can experience a little bit of that with a visit to Walden Pond Reservation. Follow in the footsteps of the famous author as you walk the nature trails, view the site where his original cabin stood, and take in the sounds of birds, rustling leaves, and the great outdoors. You’ll find yourself leaving the woods feeling at peace.
When you plan your next trip to Merrimack Valley, make relaxation a high priority. Vacations are meant to be a way to escape stress, so finding fun, relaxing activities in your chosen destination will go a long way towards avoiding burnout and coming back revitalized.
