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A candid review of South Charlotte’s premier resort and the value of self-care.
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
Can you really put a price on self-care? Well, spas definitely do but in my mind the experience is priceless. The real question that I ask myself is what is the true cost of omitting self-care? It is expensive! In some cases, a lack of a consistent self-care routine can lead to the accumulation of stress in the body. While it doesn’t have to be the spa, you should have something that is a part of your life that brings you joy and allows for peace. Time has taught me that stress build-up leads to inflammation, and having constant inflammation throughout your body is dangerous.
Since 2017, I have consistently incorporated spa days into my routine. The coronavirus pandemic definitely shook up my routine, as it did for many, but I resumed in 2023. At first, I saw these days as a luxury. Then, I realized that when I don’t go that my shoulders feel like bricks and I’m also more likely to pull muscles. So, it’s actually a necessity for me!
Sure, there are several massage parlors around that aren’t as expensive. Ideally, every massage should be a good one, but I picked The Spa at Ballantyne due to it being reputable. There are so many horror stories about massage franchises, and when in a vulnerable state such as getting a massage, it is imperative that you feel safe and comfortable. I did stop going to The Spa at Ballantyne in 2024 after they had a spa director that was rude and unprofessional, but like all bad things, they will eventually be gone. When I returned in 2025, they were under new management! During my hiatus, I switched to The Ritz-Carlton Spa, which is amazing! Although it is more expensive, and typically cost me $116 more than Ballantyne, the positive is their services can be booked for 90 minutes rather than 80. After getting laid off from my corporate job in December 2024, I thought it would be financially responsible to pause spa days. Then, I realized that taking away the things that I love during a stressful time is not the best idea. So, The Spa at Ballantyne continues to get my coins! If you have never been to this spa before, I’m happily providing you with the run down. 
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
OVerview
My favorite thing about this spa is their hours. They are open from 8a to 8p, each day of the week. The hardest part can be getting there early, but overall, it’s worth it to experience a day of relaxation. From April to October, if you spend a minimum of $135 on weekdays, you will have access to the outdoor pool. Their cheapest massage is $135, so no worries on working to meet the threshold. Of course, they exclude Saturday and holiday weekends, but their outdoor pool gets really packed during that time so it's for the best.
FYI - You must be 18 years old for spa services. Check-In
The first picture in this blog article shows the lobby on the main floor. There is a check-in counter where you notify staff of your arrival and confirm your service. They alert their colleagues that you're headed downstairs and you will be greeted by a spa attendant.
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
The attendant will ask for your shoe size to give you sandals, walk you to the ladies’ locker room, or men's, and show you how to use their locker that has a clean robe inside for you to use during your spa day.
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
The Lounge
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
Prior to receiving your service, most people wait in the lounge for their massage therapists to get them for their service. Unless you’re rushing like me, then they are waiting outside of the lounge and meet you as you exit the locker room. My goal moving forward is to slow down more. It makes life more enjoyable! If you’re feeling the same, read my previous blog article Although Life is Complicated, Don’t Rush Your Life.
Their lounge area is simple and comfortable! It’s full of chairs paired with foot rests and there are two large couches. I recently started making a day out of my spa days, so if they are open for 12 hours, then I’m trying to squeeze all that I can into at least 10! After my massages, I’ll relax and read a book and listen to classical music in here for hours. The lights are typically dimmed and they have signs throughout the building to remind people to use their inside voices. I first started going to this spa when it was surrounded by a beautiful golf course, so lounging outside while soaking in the sun made for a great day in a relatively quiet space. There was a gorgeous spot right outside of the indoor pool that was my favorite! However, they tore down the golf course and built The Bowl at Ballantyne. During that time the construction was so loud that it basically forced me back indoors. Although the indoor pool area is nice, many hotel guests and their families use that area and it can get loud with children. So, I quickly realized the spa lounge is the best place for true tranquility! 
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
They keep it stocked with fruit infused water, tea, and light snacks. A complementary drink comes with massage services, which can include an adult beverage. I don’t drink alcohol, so I stick to their cranberry juice. It hits the spot every time! They also offer free bottles of water, which I soak in because I’m working hard to be better at my hydration.
All things excellence, right to your inbox. Beauty essentials • Business strategy • Style curation Everything you need to nourish your confidence. amenities (Sauna, Steam Room, Showers, Restroom)
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
Yes, I included the restroom in the amenities. Haha. The female spa area consists of the locker room, restroom, lounge, sauna, steam room, and showers. I’ve already covered the lounge, so I’ll get into the remaining areas.
Restroom
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
The restroom is essentially basic. It has two small stalls and one larger one that is out of frame from the photo above. They do have scented diffusers on the counter and good smelling soap and lotion pinned to the walls. The basket on the counter has hair ties, razors, tampons, pads, combs and hair brushes. I cannot remember what the basket on the ground is for, but I can provide an update after my next visit.
Sauna
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
This sauna gets the job done. It’s a cozy space that fits a few people, if you want to spread out while sweating the toxins out of your body. They now have a sign outside the door that mentions not to put water on the rocks, pictured to the left, when you’re using this space. I’m not exactly sure why, because others saunas that I’ve used have a wooden bucket and spoon for you to pour water on the rocks to create steam.
However, they have a 15-minute sauna sand timer on the wall, pictured to the right, that you can use to track your time. I do not suggest bringing your phone or wearing jewelry while in the sauna. Reason being, it is hot! I used to do that but my phone would overheat and my jewelry would be extremely hot on my skin. 
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
I definitely suggest bringing a towel to sit on while you’re in the sauna. It’s designed to get hot, so you want to make yourself as comfortable as possible while you’re trying not to focus on the heat. There are many towels outside the sauna and there is a bowl with cold towels that you can use to cool down upon your exit.
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
Steam Room
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
Their steam room is steamy! After going to this spa 5+ years, I finally got the nerve to go in this room. While being in the sauna, two other ladies were contemplating going to the steam room and we all decided to go together. The funny part is that we all had enough of the steam room at the same time. I believe they use a eucalyptus scent in the room too! It definitely wasn’t like you see in the movies where people go in without clothes. Thank goodness! I wore my bathing suit. Hopefully, you wear something too to prevent showing all of your business!
Steam rooms are supposed to be great for reducing inflammation, stress, and congestion. All those things will always be positives! So, don’t wait 5+ years like me to give it a try. Showers
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
There are three showers are on the opposite side of the sauna and steam room. They are all decked out with shampoo and hair conditioner with one having a plastic bench in it for accessibility.
My Favorite Service(S)
The walkway towards massage services. | Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
I love lavender! I drink lavender tea. Buy lavender candles. Use lavender lotions, body creams, and fragrance mists. So, their Lavender Haven massage was my go-to for years! Recently, I’ve switched more towards the Deep Muscle Recovery Massage. I enjoy boxing as a hobby, so my muscles can get very tense. That one is a massage with deeper pressure, so it’s needed more at this time in my life. They just started allowing you to do the add-on to use Himalayan salt stones with your massages, and those have healing properties as well. So, you can’t really go wrong with options on their massage menu.
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
Once upon a time, I got the Lavender Haven Body Ritual. It’s essentially a full body exfoliation. It felt like someone was putting body scrub all over my body. Then, once done, there is a section for you to shower. It was . . . different. I know people that love that service. It runs about $250, so I’ll let you make that call on your own.
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Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
They recently renovated their indoor pool area to remove a smaller pool, but the larger pool shown above remains. I rarely go in this pool, because it is so cold! However, it is a very nice way to relax. I’ve seen several people go from the pool to the hot tub that is further to the right. I haven’t known this area to be packed, but I’ve often seen it used by families and those having a ladies’ spa day.
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
I do enjoy the hot tub! It's very relaxing and to make the bubbles start, you push a button on the wall that keeps them going for 15 minutes. Although this is very relaxing, I don't always add it into my spa days. Somedays are for dry spa days, so that I don't have to wait to dry off but when I do get in the water it is always a release.
If you don’t mind the noise of folks splashing in the pool or moving in and out of the hot tub, it is an okay space to read a book, probably with headphones. I used to do it years ago, before I decided to switch to the spa lounge for my reading sessions.
Outdoor pool
The outdoor pool is a different story; it is typically packed! That’s why they exclude it from spa services on the weekends and holidays. It is a nice space to chill, soak up the sun, and have a beautiful view. They have very nice cabanas that take your view to another level! I will warn you that they are expensive! During the week, they are $300 to rent, and are $400 on the weekend.
I put my stuff there one time when I was prepping to have a photo session, and their staff came behind the bar to tell me that there was a charge for the cabanas. Good news is the staff member understood and actually took my photos and that session turned out fire!! One of the pictures from that impromptu photo session is shown above! 
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
The balcony area that you pass on the entrance to the pool is top tier! This is a new relaxing spot during my pool days. It fairs better in the fall as it is more quiet with the kids back in school. Be mindful that the outdoor pool closes in the fall, typically in October.
Ballantyne Hotel Gym
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
Their hotel gym is very spacious. There is a boxing bag in there, which is a plus for me since I’ve been taking boxing lessons since 2022. However, I made the mistake of hitting the bag after a massage session and it wasn’t the best idea. It made me sore after a relaxing day, so now I avoid it at all costs. If anything, hitting the heavy bag prior to a massage would be best.
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
They have several Peloton machines, dumbbells, rowing bikes, functional trainers and more. I mainly walk down there to grab cold water bottles from the fridge! However, be mindful of exercising on the day that you intended to be a relaxing spa day. Just relax and release stress!
Ordering food
I used to order food from the spa/hotel during my spa days, but I’ve recently stopped. Not because of their menu, because the turkey wrap was great! You can get a view of the previous golf course in the background of my above photo. Wasn’t it beautiful?!
It does take about 30 minutes, on the short end of time, for your food to arrive. Since I started making my spa days a whole day, I now leave to get food and come back. That allows for me to ride around in my car and get a change of scenery. The nice plus is that my food comes quicker and is less expensive! If you’re new to this spa, I’d recommend ordering from the spa menu. Just be mindful that a gratuity charge will be added to the order as well. I think it’s 20% just like their spa services. After you get that experience, you might want to ride out for food as well. Haha. You’re able to leave and come back throughout the day, but you have to pay for your spa service prior to leaving if you’ve already received your service. Cancellation policy
I typically like to cancel my appointment two days before if I am no longer able to make an appointment. At the very least, I suggest 36 hours in advance, because they are no longer great at answering the phones in real time. They’ll call you back, but it can be hours later. Any appointment scheduled inside of 24 hours of your service will be charged 50% of the cost. If you are a no-call no-show, then you will be charged the full amount of the service. So, be sure to cancel if you are no longer able to attend, because we are not put on this earth to waste money and certainly not $100 or more!
Staff Review
Overall, my experience with The Spa at Ballantyne staff has been positive. I did mention how the previous spa director was rude and I stopped attending for a year for that reason. However, on that occurrence the staff manager ended up comping my service. Outside of that time, I’ve known them to be friendly and polite. I’ve been seeing the same massage therapist since 2017 at the Ballantyne spa. I like to keep the same massage therapist once I find a good one, because they know how to quickly get the stress out of my body. Sometimes I’m so tense, that it takes newer folks longer to learn how to remove the muscle knots and the sessions are limited.
Parking Details (Updated Section 10/2025)
Photo: Tiffany Johnson / So MoTiFFated
I loved this parking lot because it was so accessible! As I mentioned, I would leave to go get food and come back, park with ease, and return to the spa in bliss. That allowed for me to push it to the limit when arriving very close to the time of my spa appointment. Let me tell you, times have changed!
When visited in August they had holes with cones in the parking lot and I didn't pay it any attention other than avoiding the dips. My most recent visit, October 2025, showed new. There is now a ticketing system with a raising arm gate. The spa guests get validated parking, so there is no additional cost. I have to admit, I anticipated there would be a change with the addition of the Bowl at Ballantyne that I detailed earlier in this article. When they had a golf course, things were smooth sailing because the area had an element of exclusivity. Once the renovation happened, I noticed the hotel parking lot would be full of folks that were not staying, visiting, or utilizing its spa services. They would park there and go to the Bowl. Now, for them it costs a minimum of $25 to park. Shoot, even the hotel guests caught strays as a result. For them, it's $20. I believe that those staying at the hotel get comped tickets. Be mindful, friends!
If you have been before, let me know in the comments of your favorite service. If you are planning to attend, please share which part of the spa that you’re looking forward to the most!
READ MORE FROM SO MOTIFFATED: Tiffany Johnson is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of So MoTiFFated. With an MBA in Digital Marketing and a background in branding, she curates excellence across beauty, business, and style with the eye of an executive and the heart of a hype woman... Read Her Story!
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