$40 Million Spa Opens at The Grove Park Inn Resort

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (February 28, 2001) — What hotel officials are calling the finest spa in North America opened at The Grove Park Inn Resort today. The $40 million, 40,000 square foot subterranean Spa, located in the heart of the resort complex, took nearly two years to build, and is unique both experientially and architecturally, according to Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa Vice President and General Manager Craig Madison.

"The opening of our Spa is a major step towards becoming one of America's truly legendary resorts," Madison said. Madison praised Elaine D. Sammons, hotel owner, for her vision and commitment to creating something both unique and lasting at the Grove Park Inn. "Mrs. Sammons has nurtured our magnificent hotel for more than half its existence. Now, with the opening of The Spa, she has ensured its greatness far into the future."

Spa Director Ellen McGinnis has personally selected and trained the Spa's staff, many of whom came from as far away as Germany, France and Sweden. Some of the Spa's custom-designed offerings in its 24 treatment rooms include mountain stream stone and color therapy facials, music-choreographed massage and personalized services such as a Spa Concierge for each guest. "The Spa is a one-of-a-kind combination of elegance, indulgence and magic, " McGinnis said.

The architectural theme of the Spa is consistent with the Grove Park Inn's Arts & Crafts heritage, and emphasizes Western North Carolina's natural elements of sky, water, fire and rock. More than 4000 tons of native stone were used in Spa construction, both inside and out, and pools and waterfalls grace its interior and exterior.

For more information on The Spa at The Grove Park Inn Resort, visit the resort web site at www.groveparkinn.com.
For information: Dave Tomsky, Director of Media Relations
(800) 438-0050, Ext. 5007