The Umstead Spa operates within the Umstead Hotel and Spa at 100 Woodland Pond Dr in Cary, North Carolina, situated along the wooded edge of Umstead State Park near the Research Triangle corridor. The property opened in 2007 as the only Forbes Five-Star spa in North Carolina, a distinction it has maintained across multiple consecutive rating cycles. The setting reflects the broader aesthetic of the hotel: clean architectural lines, locally sourced materials, and a design philosophy that draws the natural landscape indoors through floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private lake and mature hardwood forest.
The spa occupies 12,000 square feet and includes eight treatment rooms, private couples suites, a heated whirlpool, steam rooms, and a fitness facility. The signature Woodland Botanical Facial uses plant-derived actives incorporating North Carolina native botanicals such as witch hazel and wild-harvested plant compounds, calibrated to the regional climate. Deep tissue massage, body wraps using shea and mineral compounds, and a rotating menu of seasonal treatments round out the core offering. All treatments are performed by licensed therapists with advanced training in their respective modalities.
The spa's clientele includes both hotel guests and day visitors from the greater Raleigh-Durham metropolitan area. The small number of treatment rooms maintains a quieter, more curated atmosphere than larger destination spas. Robes, slippers, and use of the whirlpool and steam rooms are included with any treatment booking.
Reservations are highly recommended, as the limited number of treatment rooms means same-day bookings are rarely available. The spa operates daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and offers gift certificates, custom wellness packages, and bridal party arrangements. The hotel grounds include a one-mile woodland walking path that extends the wellness experience beyond the spa itself.
Treatments
- Signature Woodland Botanical Facial
- Deep tissue massage
- Body wraps
- Couples suite
- Steam rooms
- Whirlpool
Good to know
- Hours
- Daily 9am-7pm
Location
100 Woodland Pond Dr, Cary, NC 27513
35.8001, -78.7874 View on map
Highlights
- North Carolina's only Forbes Five-Star spa, maintaining its rating for multiple consecutive years
- 12,000 sq ft facility overlooking a private lake and Umstead State Park hardwood forest in Cary, NC
- Signature Woodland Botanical Facial using native North Carolina plant actives
- Private couples suites with whirlpool and steam room access included
- Intimate atmosphere from a small number of treatment rooms serving a limited guest count
Tips for visiting
- Book at least one week ahead — the small number of treatment rooms fills quickly, especially on weekends
- Arrive 30 minutes before a treatment to use the steam room and whirlpool, included with any booking
- Tipping 18–20% is standard and can be added to the folio at checkout
- Ask about seasonal treatment offerings, which rotate to reflect the North Carolina botanical calendar
- The hotel's one-mile woodland walking path is open to spa guests and provides a natural warm-down after treatment
Frequently asked questions
Is The Umstead Spa open to non-hotel guests?
Yes. Day guests may book individual treatments and access the spa facilities. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, as the spa's limited treatment capacity fills quickly.
What distinguishes The Umstead Spa from other North Carolina spas?
The spa holds a Forbes Five-Star rating, the highest spa designation in the US, and is the only North Carolina property to have held it consistently. Treatment protocols emphasize locally sourced botanicals and therapist specialization.
Are changing facilities and robes available?
Yes. Robes, slippers, lockers, and access to steam rooms and whirlpool are provided to all guests with a treatment booking.
Is the spa suitable for couples?
Yes. Private couples suites are available and should be booked in advance. Couples packages combining multiple treatments are also offered.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations typically require 24 hours' notice to avoid a charge. Guests should confirm current terms when booking, as policies can vary by treatment and season.