Urban Sanctuary Spa Reviews

Every visit has been wonderful! Enjoyed several different services and products- have loved them all. Would recommend to anyone.

Absolutely love the atmosphere and the people who work here! I have gotten two massages here and the most recent time I went the lady who did my massage stayed after a few minutes and showed me some stretches to help with some back pain I had been having. She was so sweet and seemed to genuinely care for my well-being! Absolutely worth the price. Can't wait to book a spa day with my mom!
The only thing I dislike is that there is very little parking. Other than that, I love this place!

I've only been once but it was totally amazing! The building is gorgeous both inside and out. I felt relaxed as soon as I stepped through the door. The staff is first class all the way! A wonderful experience all around!

I originally went to Urban Sanctuary with a gift certificate from my boyfriend. He had been there before and raved about it. I am not ashamed to admit that I will drive nearly an hour to visit this spa! I have a high end spa within 5 minutes from where I live, but Urban Sanctuary is the best. I have been back for 2 more treatments since spending my gift certificate and I can t wait to go again. They will cater to your needs, so don t be afraid to speak up. Classy and relaxing.

Literally the best prenatal massage of my life! The staff is fabulous and the services are well-priced. Definitely the best spa in Athens!

Nice location, neat environment, friendly staff. My massage therapist Summer very professional, experienced, gentle and caring with her Hawaiian Style. She's the best. I highly recommend her.

Everything about Urban Sanctuary is bliss! I hadn t been in a long time (back to when they were at their previous location) but my memory serves me right in knowing that this is the absolute best place to get a massage in Athens and probably one of my favorites in GA. I have one other place that s up to par but I m picky so this says a lot. I was also so happy to bring a friend who told me this was the best massage she has ever had and considering her family is military she s lived just about everywhere and is no stranger to massages. Literally after we got one she made another appt 1-2 weeks later before going back to WA. If that doesn t tell you something I m not sure what will! Service is amazing, staff is uber friendly, all is tailored to what you like and need plus the store is great too : )

The only bad part about that place is that they don't allow you to stay for ever and ever! The massage therapist that I had was so good at her job. It was the most relaxing and soothing experience I have ever had because they purposely put a lot of work into making sure the environment is calming and welcoming. You can tell as soon as you walk in the door! Endless massages would be the only important they could even consider!

I received a gift certificate for a massage as a gift from my Christmas party, went in & it was absolutely amazing. I will definifely be back!

The BEST place ever! Super friendly, extremely relaxing and the body massage was amazing.

Absolutely wonderful.....I'll definitely be back!!!

I have been to urban sanctuary for massasges, nails, toes, salt scrub, and facials. Everything I've had done was amazing. Staff is always very nice and respectful!

Lovely experience. Everyone wss friendly and helpful. Massage was outstanding. Smells great with lots of nice items to browse through. Wonderful customer service from the moment I was greeted. Recommend

Great place. Atmosphere is so relaxing. Every service I've ever had here has been awesome.

I am very impressed with the spa and how professional all the staff is at Urban Sanctuary. The owner Candice really understood how to relieve my neck and should pain. I will be returning for more treatments.

My husband and I booked a couple massage for our Anniversary. The staff and therapist were all very professional. Massage was great and just what we needed. Although this is out of town for us, we will definitely return when visiting Athens again.

I love urban sanctuary. The spa is clean, quiet, and the staff are friendly. I ve gotten a couples massage here before and loved it. Recently I went in for a prenatal massage. The atmosphere was perfect. One thing I would caution pregnant women on my massage therapist did not seem to understand how to work with a pregnant woman. While the first twenty minutes of the massage I was placed on my side the expectation was that for the last forty I would lay flat on my back. As most pregnant women know the recommendation is that pregnant women after the first trimester do not lay on their back for more that 5-8 minutes because the weight of the uterus cuts off blood flow to the heart and then in turn the baby. When I mentioned I didn t know if I could handle it the response was we could skip rubbing your shoulders etc, it s your massage . While she was nice, this is problematic since I specifically signed up for a paid for a prenatal massage assuming certain accommodations would be made. I will return to urban sanctuary for a regular massage but at this point would not recommend for a prenatal without further conversation and exploration.

Since the above review the owner has been more than helpful! She scheduled a do-over and placed me with an expert in prenatal massage Allie Allie was wonderful! She made sure that both the baby and I were comfortable! She was fully equipped to accommodate and work around my pregnancy needs. Allie also knew exactly what trigger points to work given my particular stage of pregnancy! After my massage was over I slept through the night for the first time in weeks my hip pain and back pain were significantly reduced and I felt so comfortable! Next pregnancy I m definitely scheduling another visit with Allie!

Have had three massages on different occasions and have lovely being refreshed & relaxed each time.
I was warmly and calmly welcomed, offered a beverage and a warm neck pillow when i arrived early for my appointment, always asked about pressure appropriateness, and each time left feeling relaxed and calm.
Loved the Signature Massage, aromatherapy and Hot Stones! will be back again soon!

I absolutely LOVED the atmosphere at Urban Sanctaury. I was extremely stressed out with things going on and decided to try it out. I got a full body Swedish massage for an hour and it was totally worth it. The facility is very clean and peaceful. I really liked the waiting room and that there's multiple places for you to wait. While we waited for our massage, we were given a heated neck pillow to relax. My masseuse was awesome and super personable. It wasn't until after my massage that I learned she was the owner of the establishment. I would highly recommend trying this place!!

What a beautiful and relaxing environment. Top notch customer service. The staff are super friendly and want to make sure you are being pampered. The lobby also has a ton of great goodies to take home. Definitely recommend a visit!

I absolutely LOVE this spa! I always leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. The staff is very courteous, professional, experienced, and helpful.

Derek is great. Knows what's he is doing. Great service

I just received a deep tissue massage from my beautiful therapist Lanes and it was absolutely perfect. She was so nice and made sure I was comfortable throughout the entire session. She is definitely 5-Star with the deep tissue. I didn t remember who I was when I left. Book your appointment!!! LANE!!!

Just had My first massage from Urban Sanctuary Spa it was Very Relaxing

One of our favorite places to go in Athens!! It's been way too long since my last massage....gotta make an appointment soon!!!

Derek is the best. I'm clumsy and am constantly injuring myself by not acting my age. A massage from Derek is what I need to set me right. He is magic. Urban Sanctuary is such a nice and relaxing atmosphere, and they have lots of nice salves, candles, and whatnot to purchase.

Amazing couples massage! The staff was great and I love their facility too!

Very nice as our first full body couples massage. I wish there was a area on paperwork that asks if you would like certain pressure types. I asked around 3 or 4 times for lighter pressure, but it didn't last longer than the area she was working on. I felt quite sore and stiff at times. I'd still reccomend the place, but if needing lighter pressure I'd be sure to write that in my paperwork next time.

My mother and I went for my birthday for the mani and pedi. There just wasn't anything that made it stand it out from other places we've gotten the same service. The only difference is we would have paid about half for the same thing at other places. The room where the service took place was much to small for two people and the chairs were not very comfortable. It made it hard to relax and there was nothing special about the atmosphere. This was our first experience at Urban Sanctuary and I'm not sure if we will return, as the price does not match the service.

Amazing loved every minite of it will definitely be back.

I started seeing Alex for weekly deep tissue massages a few months ago. I can't even describe how pleasantly surprised I've been by his expert work. As an over-50 and over-trained gym rat, I've developed several chronic issues over the years -- all of which are finally lessening under Alex's care. A true talent.

The entire staff at Urban is top notch. Naomi and the rest of the front room crew do an amazing job of making every client feel like part of the family. Highly, highly recommend.

I have been there several times in need of stress relief. Every time I ve been, I ve always felt that they cared for my needs. From beginning to end, it was an amazing experience. I went the week of my wedding and have been for lower back pain after 2 natural births and has helped eliviate the pain! The smells in there are amazing and the warm pillow is just awesome! I ve had a couples massage too with my hubby and they are great. Pedicures and manicures are always fun and they have the sweetest workers

I had a pedicure and it was a great, very relaxing experience! It felt very clean and sanitary and everything was organic/natural. I would highly suggest any treatment here because regardless of what you chose you will definitely be in a relaxing atmosphere!

If I go ANYWHERE, it s here. I LOVE this place so much! It s in an old school house, totally updated and just fabulous. Every room is beautiful... their cleaning staff is thorough, and of course, the services are the best. You won t ever be disappointed.

Extremely relaxing atmosphere. They tailor everything to exactly what you want and need and just a great atmosphere overall!

*UPDATE* i am just going to go ahead and change this review from a 1 star to a five star
Based on the owners concern of customer care
And satisfaction.
Wich is an uncommon practice these days-
I will go ahead and say the environment and treatment received at this place is TOP NOTCH!
And will update review further in the near future.

Was not happy with the service.i needed a massage very badly and was looking forward to the hot stones-I specifically request deep tissue and hot stones wich I was told was the men s massage-the hot stones never came
And the therapist seemed very conservative/
Unhappy to be doing their job.the environment
Was very relaxing, had I received a good massage it would have been 1 of the best ever.

Urban Sanctuary is a fantastic little Athens hideaway. I have enjoyed every experience I've had there when it comes to the actual services they provide. The staff is exceptional, the products are amazing, and the massages are almost heavenly. The facilities are spotless and everyone super professional. The only reason I did not give a full five stars is due to the lackluster waiting experience. Yes, they do give you hot herbal tea and a heated neck pillow, which I very much appreciate, but not much else to occupy the time. It's a bit awkward to sit and wait (either before services or in between services) sometimes 15-20+ minutes with not much to do except sit in a rather uncomfortable chair and stare at the curtains. If you don't have someone there to talk to time ticks very slowly, and I found myself growing anxious at a place where relaxation is a priority. That's literally my only complaint. Keep up the good work, Urban Sanctuary!

From the moment you walk in the door at Urban Sanctuary, you're transported to a place of calm. I've experienced wonderful and caring service each time - such professionalism and attention-to-detail that keeps me coming back as often as I can. I without question recommend Urban Sanctuary Spa - and have to others many times over!

My husband and I had a wonderful couples massage at Urban Sanctuary! It was very easy to book an appointment even with short notice. All of the staff were very friendly, and we plan to book more services in the future.

Relaxing atmosphere as soon as you walk in the door! Professional staff. Highly recommend this place!

They help me with Massage, Facials before my wedding :) this is the perfect place to be, for the atmosphere and the people who work there!

I had my first deep tissue massage here today. The spa is absolutely adorable and the customer service on the front end was FANTASTIC. I was offered a lovely smelling warm neck pillow and a nice cup of tea in the relaxation room while I filled out my paperwork. The wait was short and I was quickly introduced to my massage therapist Alexin who was very sweet and informative. I haven't had a lot of massages, so I was a little unsure about the whole process, but she completely put me at ease. She asked what areas were bothering me and really focused on them. She did an outstanding job and even told me things I can do at home for self care. My one con for the day that kept everything from being perfect was the checkout process. My massage today was a gift and was paid for on the phone while the appointment was made for me. Upon walking out they told me a total and expected me to pay. I would have really appreciated if they had been more organized and recognized that my appointment was paid for in full before telling me the total. That issue was resolved quickly as they looked up information on the computer and realized that the total was indeed prepaid. Overall, EXCELLENT experience and I will definitely be back.

Dena is the best esthetician. She is knowledgeable and a true professional.

Urban Sanctuary creates such a calm and soothing environment that your concerns have a tendency to melt away! Treat yourself to a foot massage and pedicure- you won't regret it!

I have been to Urban Sanctuary at least 8 times over the last 2 years. I started going to help some severe shoulder pain I had due to a car accident about 10 years ago. The guy I was going to moved, but he did a fantastic job helping me with my shoulder pain. So, my first 6 experiences were great.

I also took my mother in law to Urban Sanctuary when she was visiting. She said her massage was "ok". Not the best, but not the worst.

The last 2 times, my husband and I went to have couples massages done. My first couples massage was decent. The masseuse really focused on my shoulder. My husband said his massage was pretty good. We both mentioned that once the massage was coming to an end, the person working on you then "rocked" you. It wasn't too bad, but noticeable. We were both not fans after getting a relaxing massage. But, we decided to give it another try. Maybe they were just having a bad day....

Our second couples massage was definitely not as good. We both requested the same people as before, so, we knew their techniques. Both massages were rushed. The "rocking" at the end of our massages were much more pronounced. It was not a relaxing experience at all.

I don't know if they are told to shake and rock clients at the end to make sure they aren't sleeping or what. It is extremely off putting and I will not be going back. I don't know if all for the massages are done this way for consistency. If so, I think that doesn't make sense because I enjoy having a variety of techniques to choose from. Not every client wants the same massage and it doesn't necessarily work for every client.

For the amount of money I have paid to get massages there for myself and my family members, I am disappointed. I had such great experiences here about 2 years ago, but it has gone down hill.

Great services in a beautiful, relaxing environment. Staff is friendly and helpful. Would definitely recommend for anyone looking to nurture themselves inside and out.

Very friendly staff, the spa is classy without being snooty. Lovely experience.

Excellent spa experience. The monthly massage club is a good deal and I love it.

The absolute worst spa experience I've ever had. From the moment I walked in... it was different from any other spa experience I've had. We weren't greeted or attended to well. The massage was the worst I've ever had... and I've had 100's. I was never asked what kind of pressure I would like... what type of oils (not that that really matters, just unusual a bit) or anything actually. The pressure was MUCH too light. After saying something multiple times and NEVER being asked how the pressure was... I gave up. This is the first massage that I couldn't wait to get up off the table. When I checked out.... they asked how it was and I clearly was not happy but there was no response. I never have understood why people ask questions and don't know how to respond when you say something wasn't good.

I asked to have a robe after I was done with the massage (they don't give you one prior to your treatment) and she looked at me like that was the oddest question. I wanted to take a shower and not get my clothes dirty with oil.

Overall... not relaxing, welcoming and the massage itself could have been done by anyone!

The house is cute! The spa "shop" is well equipped and fun to look at. The rooms are nice, along with the restrooms. The massage and staff.... not. I won't be back and I hate that it was that way. I was SO hoping to like it much better.

Urban Sanctuary is by far the most relaxing place in the Classic City. Each employee takes his/her job very seriously & does everything possible to make you feel right at home in the calm atmosphere of the spa. The technical aspects of a facial can be intimidating for many first-timers, but Dina's expertise with my problematic skin saved my wedding day & I will forever be a regular customer of hers since then (2+ years ago). Her knowledge of skin maintenance is impressive, but she doesn't try to sell you products you don't need or that don't work. The product lines at the spa are absolutely trustworthy & effective. I have come to adore Suki & Naturopathica, thanks to Urban Sanctuary & Dina's guidance. I highly recommend this amazing business & hope they are a mainstay of Athens life for years to come.

The staff here is amazing! Everyone greets you with a smile, and offers multiple options to make your experience very top-notch! The faculty is so relaxing, and always smells wonderful! Just walking in and taking a few deeps breaths relaxes me instantly! Love this place!

Love, love, love urban sanctuary! The ambiance in their restored building is so welcoming and relaxing! Makes the perfect setting for a day of spoiling yourself! Their prices are affordable and services and staff are amazing! Can't wait for the holidays to arrive so I can receive my yearly gift certificates from family to use there!

**Update: The owner did call me after my review to discuss my experience at Urban Sanctuary a couple years ago. She explained they have a money back guarantee for unsatisfying services. Even with my late review, the owner offered to make up my massage for a second impression. I really appreciated her genuine care for customer service, even after a belated compliant. If there are any problems, be sure to voice them to management, they will take care of you.

Great atmosphere, everyone talks in hush voices. I guess that's the spa way. Anyways, I haven't had a lot of massages, so I was excited to have one at Urban Sanctuary. I was in desperate need of a massage after wedding stress. She did ask me where I needed attention, which was my shoulders. I had an hour massage, so she asked me to use the restroom before and then get undressed. I waited for her to return, then 40-45 mins later we were done. I was pretty disappointed that I didn't have a full 60 mins massage... what I paid for. My only conclusion is that she included time it took for me to use the restroom and get undressed and for her to actually enter the room. Like I said, I haven't many massages, so I didn't know if that was the "spa way". My body could have really used the full 60 mins.

I was looking forward to a long needed couples massage. Unfortunately, we both got sick and could not make the appointment.
We wanted to reschedule but after the manager would not refund half our money, we chose not to reschedule. Very sick and I am sure the staff appreciates us canceling the appointment.
Disappointed that the manager would it refund half the deposit.

I always get a facial! They are amazing and very personalized to your skin s needs. It is so relaxing and helps disconnect from our busy schedules. I always leave feeling amazing. After I check out all of their awesome products first :)

Excellent service. Always friendly and great atmosphere! Love that you can buy gift certificates online for your friends and family!

My partner and I have been regular customers of Urban Sanctuary, and I am always impressed with the atmosphere of the business. It never fails that when we walk in the doors that we feel the relaxing climate that Urban Sanctuary so intentionally creates. The service and amazing attitudes of the staff members creates an entire experience that makes us want to continually return. We're so appreciative!

Definitely felt pampered. Had a 45 min hot stone massage. Was my first massage, so I don't have anything to compare it to. Some parts were painful with medium pressure, I was sore the next day, BUT the pain I had for a month from pulling muscles in my lower back was GONE.

Great place for a massage and a wonderful local business that does so much for our community!

Always a great time. Everyone is pleasant and we always feel rejuvenated after visiting.

My first trip to Urban Sanctuary was last week, but it certainly won't be my last! The check in staff were super friendly, and helpful. My massage was with Lane and it was fantastic! I would highly recommend Urban Sanctuary to anyone looking for a great spa experience in Athens!

I recently contacted Urban Sanctuary to ask if they could extend a gift certificate because of the pandemic, and the assistant spa manager wrote back that after "careful consideration," the owners had so generously decided to give me an extra 60 days. Given that we are in the middle of the worst days of the pandemic and our two local hospitals are overwhelmed with covid patients at the moment, I found this a little ridiculous. The gift certificate is already paid for, so I don't understand why it's a problem to extend it; it's not as if they are losing money. The email read like the owners were doing me a favor.

Moreover, my friend told me that she had also contacted Urban Sanctuary recently to extend her gift certificate, and they credited her account and told her that the credit wouldn't expire, no questions asked. I find it bizarre that the managers are crediting some people's account, but only extending gift certificates by two months "after careful consideration" for others.

Don't go to Urban Sanctuary, go to Spa Collective instead on Prince Avenue. They have better prices, and I find the quality of the services to be much better as well. The people who work at Spa Collective are wonderful too, and I always have a pleasant experience. I used to go to Urban Sanctuary more often because it was closer to my house, but I will definitely be heading over to Spa Collective from now, and encouraging all my friends to do so as well.

This place is worth every penny. The atmosphere and environment is welcoming a relaxing. Front desk people are helpful and kind and the services are excellent.

Only wish I could afford to go there on a regular basis.

If you are planning to get an eyebrow wax and you have sensitive skin, you MUST let them know. I have two serious first degree burns from a wax gone wrong.

**edit** being way too nice here, cannot stress enough how horrible this was. Literally cannot be outside, wear makeup, or touch my eyelid for the next week or two. Injuries from the waxing could have led to scarring had I not seen my dermatologist right away. Extremely overpriced for a service that has really caused a lot of pain and temporary damage to my face.

Great service, relaxing environment. I had 2 massages while I was over 7 months pregnant and they were very accommodating and careful about the types of products they used.

Always a great experience with the staff! It's relaxing as soon as you walk in and one of my favorite things is how they personalize gift certificates.

Great deep tissue massage! Ask for Derrick!! Also, perfect place to relax and facials are awesome too!

I am a local massage therapist who owns her own bussiness I send my extra bussiness to Urban Sanctuary with specific recommendations for which therapists I like. They do a good job of providing a spa massage experience and have more hours and weekends than I do so I send a lot of people here.
At one time I had an issue arise with my massage membership (you can sign up for a membership that lowers the monthly cost of a massage to a very affordable rate) it was handled by the owner and accountant with lots of follow up by the owner herself. So if you are local, this is a good option!

I have had amazing experiences at Urban Sanctuary. They are so kind and gentle. My last massage was with Cathy and she was AMAZING! I will definitely be returning to her!

The ambience is spectacular. Warm , inviting and Wow. Pleasant greeting from the staff that just escalates from there. The waiting area filled with white noise and soothing smells. A cup of hot tea and a warm neck pillow for the wait. Professional staff throughout the whole couples massage. The aroma therapy was on point with the Eucalyptus smells. Firm hands that erased all pains from the shoulders and neck, the staff hit all areas and really worked those that needed it. We left on cloud 9 fully relaxed. We will book another session, no doubt.

***AVOID*** Thanks for failing to honor Amazon vouchers my in-laws purchased for me because you are 'too busy for the next two months'. I've had to pay for a number of calls in my quest to get the money back following snooty and unhelpful responses for your awful staff. The result has been upsetting my in-laws (in their 80s) and cash out of pocket. *** AVOID***

For my birthday I received a giftcard for Urban Sanctuary Spa. First let me say the envelope/giftcard itself was beautiful. Not to mention the smell was refreshing! I made my appointment and got in with no problem. I always rode by the place but never realized what it was. As I walked in I was in complete awe and amazement! What a beautiful place! I checked in, did my paperwork, and looked around for a minute and then my name got called. As I was walking to my room we went downstairs...I was totally shocked! This place has three stories full of beauty! My massage was great and relaxing. I definitely felt rejuvenated when I left. Everyone was so sweet and helpful. I will definitely be making my way back!

Urban Sanctuary is amazing. I went for the first time about eight years ago, and I fell in love and will never go anywhere else. The place is decorated so beautifully, the staff is so polite and professional, and the service cannot be beat. I'd recommend to anyone.

I had a neck and shoulder massage and headache massage with Lane. It was a great experience and my neck muscles were much more relaxed when I left. I will definitely be going back.

Great everything!!! Must go and check it out you will not be sorry.

I got a gift card for graduation and was excited to finally use it. Now, I can't wait to just use up the card (just so I can get the moneys worth) so I don't have to deal with this place anymore. I got a wax that still left me with hair. Not only was this the most over priced service I have ever received it wasn't even worth the money. (I could get 3 waxes for the price of one and actually be hairless at many places in Athens). I think they were proud to say they provide "fast wax" but it seems like they should take their time and try harder to get everything. I grew my hair out to be longer than a grain of rice (instructions were to be as long as a grain of rice) and apparently this isn't long enough. Actually tell the customer what you expect so that we can get the service we pay for. Unfortunately, I left feeling like I could have done 1000x better myself or gone elsewhere and that my money went to waste. Now I feel more stressed trying to think about how to fix this mess of a wax. Would not recommend!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I love coming every two weeks and having a manicure with Phuong. She is so sweet and does an amazing job. The gel nails last and look so beautiful. It s a wonderful treat to go someplace relaxing and get pampered.

Nice relaxing atmosphere. Nice staff. Will check it out again.

Lovely service but there is always hard to schedule appointment and need to plan in advance

Best manicure and pedicure I've ever had! Much attention to detail.

Absolutely the most beautiful and relaxing spa I have ever visited. Warm and welcoming space and people. The staff are kind and helpful. My massage was devine. :-)

My Mom and I recently celebrated her 70th birthday at Urban Sanctuary. Everyone there was wonderful and treated her like she was queen for the day. We had facials and massages. We will definitely return for facials soon, because she was so impressed that the bags under her eyes were gone! I also love the atmospere and the attention to detail. It is a wonderful place to celebrate something special or to renew and recharge. I look forward to my next spa treatment.

As soon as you enter the doors, you feel relaxed. Spent a mother-daughter day here and enjoyed every minute.

I have been here twice so far and it's been the best experience each time. I did a bridal party for my sister last year that we all raved about and went back again yesterday. I love the relaxing atmosphere, professional attitudes and personal experience I've had each time. Great work urban sanctuary!

Absolutely LOVE urban sanctuary!! Great prenatal massages (the best and only way I could relax during my pregnancy) and even if you re not pregnant they are the absolute BEST in Athens! Affordable prices and great service!