Spa Happenings: A Q&A With Spa Montage Deer Valley's Spa Director Matthew Punsalan
The indoor mosaic lap pool at Spa Montage in Deer Valley, Utah.
Fresh off of a long winter with record snowfall, Spa Montage at Montage Deer Valley continues to be a hot spot all year long. With 35,000 square feet, the alpine retreat is the largest spa in the state, tempting locals and vacationers alike with impressive amenities, breathtaking views and luxurious treatment offerings. Throughout the years from girls’ getaways to relaxing spa days, Spa Montage has been one of my most tried and true Park City area retreats.
Spa Profile: Spa Montage Deer Valley
Recently, I was able to connect with Matthew Punsalan, Director of Spa & Retail Operations at Montage Deer Valley, to get the scoop on life as a spa director and the latest news, tips, and insider spa information. I’m excited for what’s on the horizon and can’t wait for my next Spa Montage trip!
Relaxing soaks and mountain views.
Tell us about your background in the industry and how you got to where you are now.
I never imagined that my professional journey would lead me into the luxury wellness industry. My career began 17 years ago in Southern California, where I learned the art of combining eastern and western wellness practices for guests to experience an elevated spa experience. Throughout my 16-year career, I was able to lead spa teams in urban hotels, wellness resorts and beach resorts across six hospitality leading brands. Montage International’s commitment to wellness and high-level attention to spa is one of the major points that attracted me to join the brand.
What's your vision for Spa Montage at Montage Deer Valley this year?
The vision that I have for Spa Montage at Montage Deer Valley is to become the Summit of Wellness by allowing guests to elevate their sense of being through nature’s looking glass. We are creating sensory experiences that combine the natural elements of Deer Valley and the most advanced technology.
What's your favorite part of working for Spa Montage at Montage Deer Valley?
My favorite part of working for Spa Montage at Montage Deer Valley is the guest transformation. When a guest walks through our gates of wellness and experiences our treatment programs, the joy that I feel when they depart with a feeling of renewal is unmatched from any other emotion.
Copper tubs in Spa Montage’s Serenity Suite are both beautiful and functional.
What trends are you noticing in the wellness industry? Any you're incorporating into the spa menu?
Wellness + Beauty is a major trend in the industry. Consumers are more knowledgeable about how to go through the skin-aging process effectively, while not afraid to test the boundaries of aesthetic advancements. Medical aesthetics are combining with wellness spas like never before. Our spa menu perfectly marries advanced beauty enhancing treatments and traditional aesthetic practices.
Are there any new treatments being offered you can tell us about?
Our Restorative Massage is new to our menu for the 2023 season. This sensory experience profoundly balances the body by focusing on the spine with 16 aromatherapy steps using 10 essential oils. This treatment remains active in the body for five to seven days easing stress, relieving back pain, and increasing energy.
Amenities at Spa Montage Deer Valley include a relaxing sauna.
What is the most popular treatment currently offered?
The Escape to Serenity is our most sought-after treatment. This couple’s treatment takes the guests on a journey in our Serenity Suite that includes two luxurious copper tubs, two balconies and fireplaces, along with treatment areas. Guests begin with flotation massage techniques in the copper tubs followed by foot baths and massage treatments.
What's the most splurge-worthy treatment?
The most splurge-worth treatment is The Masterpiece. This facial treatment is 120 minutes of anti-aging and cellular renewal perfection. It combines a HydraFacial, oxygen infusion, and six power masques to lift, tighten and restore the skin.
Any inside tips for guests who want to make the most of their spa visit?
To make the most of your spa visit, we encourage guests to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to their treatment to begin our Art of Spa regimen that includes hot and cold therapies. After treatment and before departing the spa, we encourage guests to make a memorable moment and relax in our Mosaic whirlpool that has the most glorious vista views of Deer Valley.
How do you like to relax?
Vinyasa Flow Yoga is my relaxation. Being one with movement and concentrating on mindfulness.
The spa’s serene sanctuary takes guests to new heights of relaxation, beauty, and wellness year-round.
For more information and to book a spa treatment, visit Montage Deer Valley’s website and follow them on Instagram: @montagedeervalley
[Photos courtesy of Montage Deer Valley]
Alisha Racker’s beauty career has spanned over a decade as she's worked as a master esthetician, skin care PR-pro, and freelance writer. She lives in the beautiful mountains of Salt Lake City with her husband and children. Follow her on Instagram: @slcbeautybabe.