Hot Stones in a Hot Town

Everything about Las Vegas is hot— the weather, the gambling, the shows— so, if you get the urge for a massage in Sin City, why not make that hot as well? The use of heated stones in massage, which has its origins in Native American culture, can result in a delightful experience for those seeking a deeper relaxation than the average hand kneading can deliver.

The hot stone massage incorporates thermotherapy—the application of heat—and can utilize Swedish, aromatherapy, shiatsu or deep-tissue massage. Estheticians use stones of varying size and temperature to induce relaxation, balance and healing. Here is a sample of hot stone offerings available on the Vegas Strip.

At the Mirage, fatigued visitors can find rejuvenation with the Desert Hot Stone Massage. Choose between a 50-minute treatment ($135) or an indulgent 80 minutes ($175). For total relaxation, add a soothing Aromatherapy Relaxation Bath ($50) before the massage.

WEB SITE | www.mirage.com

Spa Mandalay, at Mandalay Bay, offers the 50-minute Mandalay Hot Stone Massage ($145), which features a Swedish-style massage. Patrons in need of a little more “release” can opt for a deep-tissue massage with the stone-work ($160). To complete your bliss, add the Mandalay Scalp Treatment ($30) and breathe deep as stimulating peppermint oil is massaged into the scalp to revitalize the soul.

WEB SITE | www.mandalaybay.com

Spa Bellagio’s LaStone Massage ($210), which uses heated basalt stones and cold marble stones to bring the body into balance, is 70 minutes of heaven. To get your back bikini-ready, add the Coconut Scrub ($25). The skin scrub is back-specific and uses fresh coconut, rice and vetiver along with a Bellagio specialty scent.

WEB SITE | www.bellagio.com

The MGM Grand features the Thai Raindrop Technique ($245), which fuses Thai table stretches with nine essential oils dropped onto the spine and distributed with a warm stone massage. After 75 minutes, your senses are sure to be awakened, so freshen up the tired tootsies with a Hot Café and Horchata Pedicure ($95). The treatment starts with a hot coffee foot mask and finishes with a sweet milk foot soak.

WEB SITE | www.mgmgrand.com

Want to perform your own hot stone massage? Just look for basalt stones that are smooth and heavy for their size. Lezlie Young, spa director at Spa Mandalay says, “Basalt stones are best. They are made from lava and meant to absorb and retain heat.” While the stones vary in color, most begin as slate gray and darken once introduced to massage oils. Marble stones for cold stone therapy (as in Bellagio’s LaStone Massage) and high-quality basalt and marble stones can be found at basaltstones.net.