It is clear to me that the owner has no updated the place in years. There was no one there, and most likely hasn't been for a long while. I got a massage..if that's what you want to call it, more like a light petting my some woman they called in to give the massage. When getting ready for the massage I noticed hair on the sheets..not from someones head either!! At dinner...hair in my food too!! Also, rust in the sink, very old and outdated features everywhere in the "spa". When taking a shower the water stunk so bad I felt worse after getting out of it. We actually left in the middle of the night...3:00AM it was so uncomfortable and bad. I noticed that the "spa" was up for sale online, I can only imagine why. It really is in a beautiful area though that was the only positive thing about the whole place.
10 years ago (04-06-2015)
In short:
A lovely retreat settled in a beautiful Minnesota rural setting shared with plentiful bird diversify and deer. The spa offered relaxing and quality sessions. The main building was confidante and spacious. Lunch was good. The grounds could use some tlc.
In detail:
I was nervous as I approached the gate, formerly grand and now subdued by lichen, and traveled down the gravel with constant puddles. Three red barn style buildings to my left and a pool and estate home to the left. Wooded structures appeared to be original, and thus some inherent age.
As I entered I was warmly greeted by make and escorted to a tour of the facilities and my scheduled events for the day with Angela. A medieval chandlier and wood trimmings reminiscent of fraternal orders welcomes you into the main building. There were shared spaces for day spa guest access that were relaxing and cozy add well as perfect for watching nature.
My day started with guided mediation which was professionally and perfectly executed. I had a nice lunch and Richard was social. I had a facial with Angela which was elegant and relaxing, the products were very gentle and rarely scented. This is important to me as I have sensitivities. Mary Lou provided phenomenal massages, herbal wrap, and reflexology.
I wandered the grounds freely, spotting many varieties of birds and scaring up a couple deer. This place was serene, peaceful, truely quiet (as quiet as nature's roucous can be).
I would recommend the spa services without hesitation. This is not a modern chic place. It is rustic elegance. It provides an environment for reflection and restoration. Though WiFi seems to be present - but I challenge you to detach for the day!
9 years ago (02-06-2016)
Birdwing is a great rustic place -- I just returned from there and would definitely go again. The staff was not only gracious, they were ALL extremely accommodating. The food was delicious, the spa services were great, the fitness classes were fun, the grounds are beautiful. I would say it's much like a rustic B&B with a spa mixed in. I'm surprised at some of the negative reviews as well, but perhaps they are outdated now. It's all about expectations. If you're looking for a luxury euro spa, this isn't the place. If you like to mix nature and cozy comforts with your spa experience, this place hits a home run.