The Standard-Bearer: Burke Williams

I was so overdue for a day of pampering, I told myself, that only a reliable old-school European-style spa would do. And I knew I could count on one in the well-appointed Burke Williams chain.

I booked at almost the last minute, calling on a Friday evening to ask for Sunday appointments for the spa’s signature 50-minute facial ($105) and 75-minute Harmony massage ($170). I felt a little dubious, because clients have to call a central guest services number to make an appointment, rather than the spa itself. But the reservationist was efficient and helpful, figuring out how to get both treatments for me even though I was booking late. I was glad they pointed out that this is a “European-style spa, clothing optional.” Not a problem for me — though at the last minute I threw a bathing suit into my bag, just in case: No one wants to be the only one unclothed at a spa, or vice versa. It turned out to be a good decision. Unlike other European spas I’ve visited, the clients here almost all wore swimsuits when they used the whirlpool and other features in the women’s “wet” room.

Burke Williams is easy to spot, with a huge banner plastered to the side of the mall that faces traffic whizzing by on the adjacent 22 Freeway. It was a little more challenging once I hit the Block at Orange parking lot, only because the door is around the corner from the banner, not beneath it as I expected, and while there are signs in the parking lot pointing the way, I found them to be just a little bit challenging to follow and ended up parking one mall entrance farther away than necessary.

Entering the spa reception area from the sunny outdoors really was like entering another world: dimly lighted, a lightly fragrant, not overwhelming scent, the murmur of soft voices. The check-in desk was well staffed and able to handle multiple clients at once, which was a good thing because this is a very busy spa. One of the hostesses gave me a guided tour that ended in one of two changing areas outfitted with an ample assortment of full-length and half-size lockers. Each locker came with a thick terry robe and much-better-than-average spa sandals. Out of habit I asked for a larger-than-standard robe, because I’ve found that the one-size-fits-all kind can sometimes be a little skimpy for me. I probably needn’t have bothered: The one the attendant returned with was bear-sized! Heavy and somewhat hard to get in and out of, it was nonetheless very, very cozy and provided more-than-ample coverage.

Changing is a group activity here: There are no individual changing rooms and the locker room was abuzz with activity. The attendant suggested that I use a bathroom stall if I wanted privacy.

Before my treatments, I took a dip in the 18-person whirlpool spa. Backed by a soothing water wall, this pool was big enough to really spread out and relax in, without stepping on another patron’s foot or getting in the middle of someone else’s conversation. A large container of icy water with citrus and cucumber was perched on the edge, so you didn’t need to get out to help yourself to a drink; iced washcloths were conveniently poolside too. Nearby were a sauna, steam room and “misting” room.

After my soak, I struggled back into the bear-sized robe and went to wait for my treatment in the main lounge area, a large, two-story-tall room with luxurious sofas, chairs and a fire roaring in the fireplace. Water, tea and fruit were on a sideboard. I loved the fire and comfortable furniture; I was less happy with the presence of men! Only a few: two in robes also waiting for treatments, one in street clothes (waiting for a wife or girlfriend perhaps.) But when it comes to spas, I am a firm proponent of separate but equal.

Fortunately, this common room was not the only option. I could choose instead the “Social Room,” a smaller version of the lounge, sans fireplace but with recliners. This seemed perfect for a group celebrating a birthday or bridal shower. Or I could opt for the “Women’s Quiet Room” — women-only, no talking allowed, and with lounge chairs and ottomans separated from each other by dividers. Each was outfitted with an afghan, pillows and an individual light that could be turned off if you wanted to nap, but that wouldn’t bother others if you wanted to read.

When it came time for my first treatment, the esthetician took me into a private treatment room, with a heated massage table, low lighting and piano music playing in the background. She asked about my current skin-care regimen and history of having facials before she started. After carefully examining my skin, she tailored the treatment to take into account my specific needs, deciding against exfoliating my cheeks (“too sensitive!”) and adding soothing yarrow root oil.

The facial included a neck, shoulder, arm and foot massage, and a hot wax treatment for my hands. At the end of the 50 minutes, happily clad in a robe that had been heated up during my treatment, I wondered if following the facial with the Harmony massage would be overkill. But I did it anyway. It was a good decision. Part terrific massage, part exfoliation, it was a thoroughly relaxing and renewing experience.

Then it was back to the locker room, to shower, shampoo, blow-dry and go. Though the area was well equipped (deodorant, razors, soaps, lotions, shampoos, conditioners and even disposable bags to use for wet bathing suits), I was disappointed that there were only five shower stalls. In a spa that can get 200 guests on a weekend day, this meant a wait. But an attentive staff member (and without fail the staff was attentive, courteous and helpful) saw me sitting in a corner and came and got me when a stall opened up.

After I paid on the way out, I picked up a flier with information about Burke William’s spa “memberships.” Sign on for a one-year term, and for $79 per month you can get a basic massage or facial and use of facilities before and after your treatment. If you want something beyond basic, the $79 is applied toward the higher price tag. For $109 a month you get all of the same benefits plus you may use the common facilities any day but Saturday whether you’re having a treatment or not. Not a bad deal.

Burke Williams at the Block at Orange, 20 City Blvd., West Building C3, Orange. Call (310) 966-4098 for reservations. Open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. https://www.burkewilliamsspa.com