Western Massachusetts

Welcome to the Relaxing Side of Hampshire County, where people come from far and wide — to feel good. Need to rejuvenate? We’ve got a yoga class for that. Seeking a good sweat? Our recreation options are endless.

In part one of this series, we did a deep dive into eating and drinking your way well in the Pioneer Valley. In the second (and final) post of this two-part series, we’ll show you how to shake things up, power down, and move your body well while in our neck of the woods.

Welcome to Part two: Move (or rest) Your Body

Now that it’s June, we’ve gotten a little space from the frigid temperatures we settle into in the darker months. And don’t get us wrong — around here, there are a million reasons to love winter. But at a certain point, as the sunsets get later and later, it’s time to trade in the snow boots for something a little less insulated. To swap out the skis for the hiking sticks. And to invigorate the body with a good dose of fitness. Lucky for you, we have options galore.

If you enjoy the great outdoors, allow us to recommend some stellar hiking. Hit any number of trailheads at Mt. Tom in Easthampton, Mt. Skinner in Amherst, or Mt. Holyoke or Mt. Hitchcock in Hadley. You JUST missed the Seven Sisters Trail Race, which gives a great (and lung expanding) introduction to some of the incredible trails on offer in the Connecticut River Valley. But hey, you don’t need a race to enjoy a vigorous jaunt in nature. Grab a friend (and a backpack of snacks) and get going.

When the weather fails to cooperate, the party moves inside. Enjoy yoga and pilates at one of our many (beautifully appointed) studios. Enjoy the CrossFit WOD or climb (inside) to your heart’s content.

Ready for some tough love? Maybe what you really need, is rest. Let someone else take care of you for a change, and book a massage, facial, or reiki treatment at one of our many salons and spas.

Admit it. Your body needs some love. Come and breathe our air! Climb to one of our many mountain peaks and take in the view. Run, jump, row a boat, or wander the streets. Our world is your oyster.

Wake Up to Wellness

Is a good dose of movement the thing you need? Or is it stillness and silence you’re seeking? Heart rate up, or nervous system settling… wherever (and however) you find that peaceful feeling, we’re confident you can find it here. Enjoy this list of relaxing, rejuvenating, and revitalizing places we know and love.

Yoga Center Amherst - Yoga Center Amherst’s purpose is to help the embodied self and the soul come together to create an integrated, purposeful, and fulfilling life. If you’re seeking relaxation, what could be better? Join them for a class in Downtown Amherst.

Elements Hot Tub and Spa - Tub rooms, spa treatments, and massage services — oh my! Ready to rest your body, melt away your troubles, and finally take a few minutes (or 60) for yourself? Elements is the locally-owned spa of your dreams (in Downtown Amherst).

Northampton Bicycle - At Northampton Bicycle, you’re not only a few strong pedal strokes from hundreds of miles of bike path enjoyment, you’re also surrounded by bikes for rent, for sale, and for riding inside (if the weather isn’t cooperating). Local tip: this shop has just opened a bar for post-ride imbibing, and they’ve stocked local beer, wine, and cider for your wind down enjoyment.

Pedal the Pioneer Valley Farm and Food Tour - Eat, drink, and MOVE YOUR BODY! This is the combination of the summer. Explore lively New England towns and cycle through the hills and green fields, all while sampling the best local food at the height of summer harvest. It’s all happening August 23-25, so get your tickets now and avoid the fear of missing out.

Puffer’s Pond - Puffer’s Pond has the largest open water body in Amherst and is a beloved and prominent recreation area for fishing, birding, nature walking, canoeing, picnicking, and swimming. At approximately 11 acres in size, it forms the centerpiece of a greenbelt conservation area that stretches from Route 63 east to the Amherst Town line bordering Shutesbury and Leverett. This is truly the place of your outdoor recreation dreams.