My husband and I recently stayed at the Berkeley Springs Spa and Inn. The inn caters to couples only and maintains a low-profile online in an effort to limit the number of unwanted visitors, thereby encouraging a "relaxing experience" for all guests. You will find only limited information on their website (or over the phone) on what to expect once you arrive. As we were provided with limited information upfront, it was difficult to ascertain what to expect upon arrival; this lead to some disappointment based on our initial expectations – especially for the not insignificant cost of $610 for a weekend package (not including tips and extra services).
We did enjoy the solitude and several of the amenities, including tidy surroundings, the jacuzzi, and a nice video library with a wide selection of freely available VHS cassettes for in-room viewing. Guest rooms and common areas were also very clean and tidy. Some external areas were in need of repair, but nothing significant.
Some of the problem areas included:
- NO CANCELLATION Policy – extremely problematic, considering you may wish to book two to three months in advance.
- Upon initial check in, you are given a cold rundown of all rules and requirements for guests. In fact it very much feels like preparation for boot camp, rather than gearing up for a laid back and relaxing weekend.
- No bathtub, only a shower stall available in each guestroom. This information is not made apparent upfront.
- Many of the meals were poorly prepared and more time was spent on presentation and less on taste and quality.
- Breakfasts are "Continental" – extremely inappropriate considering the higher costs for a complete spa package. It was quite obvious well over 80 percent of the breakfast meals were comprised of fruit (blueberries, strawberries, pineapples, grapes, oranges, etc) and most of the guests ate very little as one can only eat so much fruit over the course of two days.
- No alcohol allowed on the premises --- Wine is available for purchase from the inn starting at $25 a bottle, although most choices averaged $30 to $40 a bottle.
- Very strict timing. You must decide on your spa treatments in advance by phone and are not permitted to change times or choices (unless you would like to request additional services).
- In general, the somewhat gruff demeanor of the innkeeper is a bit off-putting. In fact, we were often made to feel a little like unwelcome houseguests, rather than pampered customers.
- Tips are verbally applied during checkout. This was extraordinarily uncomfortable and the innkeeper is quite clear on what is expected. If you go with his recommendations, be prepared to pay up to $100 in tips for dinners and spa treatments. Although some tipping may be appropriate, the inn seems to take this to the extreme, considering you are already paying for a higher-priced full-service package.
- Honestly the price is very far out of line with the level of service and facilities provided. A nearby inn of a similar name (The Inn and Spa at Berkeley Springs) on the local main street area offers a comparable package for about $250 less (with all spa treatments included, etc). My husband and I toured this place as well during our stay. The two inns are worlds apart, but what stood out the most in terms of difference was the friendliness and professionalism of the staff at the other inn.
Although we had a nice time in the town of Berkeley Springs, WV and a not altogether horrible time at the Berkeley Springs Spa and Inn, we will not be returning for a repeat stay at this inn.






