Absolute Nirvana

Santa Fe, United States

4.2

Closed now

20 reviews

Accepts Credit Cards
By Appointment Only

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Telephone:
+1 505-983-7942
Website:
absolutenirvana.com
Address:
106 Faithway St, Santa Fe, NM, 87501
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Accepts Credit Cards
Yes
Parking
Street
Bike Parking
Yes
Wheelchair Accessible
Yes
By Appointment Only
Yes

Today

Today 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Closed now
Local time (Santa Fe) 19:20 Sunday, 29 June 2025

Business hours

Monday 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Tuesday 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Wednesday 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Thursday 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Friday 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Saturday 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Sunday 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Description

Specialties

Experience sublime bliss with a massage or spa treatment at Absolute Nirvana Spa & Gardens. Featuring traditional Asian spa rituals and luxurious rose petal baths, we are dedicated to the ancient healing art of using plants, herbs and spices for inner and outer beauty. As Cultivator Members of The Green Spa Network, we use only natural and organic ingredients in all spa treatments. In addition, we offer therapeutic, hot stone and Thai massage, as well as a selection of rejuvenating and anti-​aging facials. Our staff of Master-​level therapists, all with 17 to 24 years of experience, will nourish your body and soul.

Cultivator Member of The Green Spa Network.

«One of the Hottest New Spas in the World» — Conde Naste Traveler

«One of the Three Best Spas in Santa Fe» — Santa Fe Reporter

«Best Over-​the-​Top Spa Indulgence in Santa Fe» — The Santa Fean

History

Established in 2005.

The spa was inspired by a trip that Carolyn Lee (owner) and her family took in Bali in 2004. Carolyn was captivated by the grace and beauty she experienced on her vacation and decided to bring to Santa Fe the same sublime bliss she experienced while in Bali. The Balinese spa experience is a feast for the senses, incorporating not just heavenly massage but also the use of pure, natural and organic ingredients, beautiful flowers, exotic aromas and serene sounds. Carolyn worked together with Christa Obuchowsky, a world-​famous spa consultant, to bring the best of Balinese spa treatments together with the utmost in comfort and techniques available.

Meet the Business Owner

Carolyn L.

Business Owner

Carolyn Lee has been an innkeeper for the past 23 years, opening Alexander’s Inn in 1997, shortly after moving to Santa Fe from Paris, France. As the daughter of a career diplomat, Carolyn has lived in many different countries, including Germany, Canada, Turkey and France. Her first career was as a dancer with Pennsylvania Ballet and Wisconsin Ballet. She later attended Tufts University, getting her degree in International Relations. Upon graduation she moved from Boston to New York and worked on Wall Street as well as in the field of advertising. From New York she moved to Paris, where her son Alexander was born. In 1986 Carolyn moved to Santa Fe and opened Alexander’s Inn with just four rooms. As the business expanded, so did Carolyn’s family. She is currently married to artist Ted Larsen and now has three children — Alexander and the twins, Madeleine and Nicholas. In 1998 she purchased two new inns, naming them after the twins. Absolute Nirvana Spa was opened in 2005.

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Nearby

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20 reviews of Absolute Nirvana

No registration required
Place rating: 5
Englewood, CO
I got one of their deluxe treatments (massage, scrub and mask) and just wow! Having worked in spas for many years, I acknowledge how everything is done in these types of services. My esthetician/​therapist was amazing, friendly, peaceful, etc. the service ended with a lovely rose petal bath and fruits and truffles and tea while the gayatri mantra filled the room — talk about bliss. I felt completely submerged in absolute nirvana ;)
Place rating: 5
Albuquerque, NM
We were in Santa Fe for a staycation from Albuquerque— called somewhat last minute, given that it’s Valentine’s weekend, and Christy was able to find my beau and I slots at 6pm. Nirvana is within walking distance from the plaza– Pamela and Lauren took care of us and our experience was great! Wonderful vibe and really warm vibe in this place– we recommend it.
Place rating: 5
San Diego, CA
I’m sitting here in the sun dappled courtyard after a 2.5 hour spa experience. The venue is totally charming, warm and cocoon like. Check-​in was easy. The first stop was with Janice who gave me a very nice pumpkin enzyme facial. She explained everything every step of the way and gave me a list of products she used. Although I only had four hours of sleep, my skin looked as plump as a baby’s (unfortunately, that’s another story altogether). Next I met Virginia who gave me one of the best massages I ever had. She was so kind and emanated warmth. The massage was too short — probably not really but it felt so good I finally fell asleep! (Sorry if I snored, Virginia. You are that good!).
To top it all off, after that massage she poured warm pumpkin spice oil on me. After that, she sprinkled brown sugar on me (Hey, Mick Jagger!) and then a pumpkin mask. I felt like a sugar cookie but wam and melty. She ran the luxurious shower for me and I got to wash it all off in privacy.
Now I’m enjoying the awesome fall weather in this most enchanting city. It truly is Absolute Nirvana. Not like Kurt Cobain, but definitely like Heaven.
I know there are fancy hotels nearby but I will always return here every time I come back to Santa Fe.
Place rating: 2
Atlanta, GA
Decent experience – my massage/​scrub was fine. Not great but not terrible. Comfortable surroundings.
I would have given three stars if not for the poor customer service. I originally booked a massage/​scrub special with an add on. For some unknown reason and despite the fact that I confirmed my services when I arrived, the add on was never administered. No big deal. Then I get to front desk to settle up, point out the issue and the receptionist asks me «what do you want me to do?» Ummm. Hmm, let me think. Take the service I didn’t receive off of my bill! So she takes it off.
Then I begin to pay. I was to pay with a Spafinder gift card. Had i received all of the services i booked, i would have completely used gift certificate, but since they forgot the add-​on, i didnt use the entire thing. The lady at the desk says that she must redeem the entire thing and would be happy to give me a gift card for the remainder – okaaay but I’m not from Santa Fe so I won’t be able to use the remainder. So i ask to either keep it on the card or receive it in cash. After a call to the manager it turns out that they cant keep it on the card and can only give me 80% of the cost of the remainder. Whatever. FINE. Wouldn’t have been an issue had you given me the services i booked in the first place, but FINE.
I say, give the remainder in cash as a tip to my therapist and I’ll pay the rest of the tip on my credit card. Receptionist says, ok! And then proceeds to charge the tip PLUS the difference from my gift card on my credit card… effectively charging me twice for the difference. I point out the error (yet another one), which she doesn’t understand, explain the math and she finally agrees to give me the cash.
Ugh.
It was a decent service but after that whole shebang, i left the appointment on a sour note and it really kind of made me enjoy the appointment less.
Wouldn’t go back unless they can get an receptionist who can get it together.
Place rating: 4
Montclair, NJ
After a long day of cooking with my comrads at my Santa Fe cooking retreat, I decided to treat myself to the wonders of a spa facial. My skin has been breaking out lately due to the change in weather as we transition the seasons so this was the perfect way to treat it and relax too. Stress can mount around this time of year when work ramps up and everyone returns from summer vacation and lounging. I was battling bronchitis and a busy work schedule while anticipating this trip. Luckily, I healed just in time before I set off on my journey!
My esthetician, Janice, was wonderful! I especially love she used the natural skin product line, Naturopathica. Everything from the music to the sounds of birds chirping outside, was lovely. The windows were open so there was no chilling air conditioning and being pampered in a new place felt perfect. As far as products go, I really loved the Rosemary Geranium Soothing Mist, and the Pumpkin Enzyme Peel. These anti-​aging produts are safe, natural, and smell wonderful too! I highly recommend them to anyone who is looking to prevent aging and wants glowing skin.
The atmosphere was unique in that the spa is in a detached cottage that’s part of a bed & breakfast. As you can see in the photo, the trail leading there was very inviting and tranquil. I absolutely loved being there. Everyone on the staff was warm and hospitable and never rushed or inpatient. The receptionist even made it a point to come outside of the office and help me when I was trying to find the place. I left Absolute Nirvana feeling completely relaxed and rejuvenated.
Place rating: 5
Jupiter, FL
The positive reviews really speak to this place — was in town and had time for some ‘me’ time, I called these folks based on their spot in my cellphone search and was so glad that they were able to get me in that afternoon for a time that worked very well. The 60 minute was incredibly relaxing, I let the masseuse have reign on what she felt I needed, something I don’t normally do, and was I glad I did. Excellent multiple methodologies were implemented, I really like it a lot and would highly recommend.
Place rating: 5
Huntington Beach, CA
Massage was wonderful, and staff were all very pleasant and caring. I’m from out of town, but will definitely return when back in Santa Fe.
Place rating: 1
Weston, CT
Maybe we were unlucky, but we walked in to wait to book a massage and the receptionist was so busy gossiping she told us to wait and then continued her conversation for 10 more minutes until we left. It seemed like a nice place, but it was an unprofessional greeting. Carolyn should be concerned. We won’t try again there.
Place rating: 5
Los Alamos, NM
WOW! First time on Sunday, hubby and I went for father’s day massages — total bill before tip was $ 245 for (2) 1 hour massages (one classic and one classic plus $ 20 extra for deep tissue work). I fortunately had $ 200 in gift cards from my generous customer so only had to cover the $ 45 plus tip plus a sitter.
Location is downtown so easy to get to, but on a street that dead end’s so with very little traffic. They have three lovely outdoor seating areas/​gardens and the inside is elegantly decorated with an asian theme.
Keith worked on me, we had a nice conversation about his 20 year career in massage– he was thorough and truly deep tissue.
It turns out Keith works on the athletes at the US Open and also will be covering the Olympic athletes– he’s a gem of an employee, they are lucky to have him there. Hubby reported that he also had a great massage. I can’t wait to get back.
Place rating: 3
Tewksbury, MA
Good massage, although a bit pricey. Nice relaxing setup with comfortable waiting room and good variety of refreshments. Knowledgeable and experienced therapists.
Place rating: 4
Santa Fe, NM
A great massage and a great experience I was lucky enough to get a gift certificate and I was not appointed. Clean beautiful location and great staff. Wish they had public tubs or something but other than that a wonderful experience.
Place rating: 5
Portland, OR
I was visiting Santa Fe today and dropped in to see if this spa could take me for a last minute facial. Not only could they take me, but I had a fantastic experience. My therapist, Janice, was first rate. She was knowledgeable, communicative and had great suggestions on how to take care of my skin moving forward. It was one the best facials I’ve ever had! Great relaxing environment and amazing service.
Place rating: 4
Oakland, CA
Very relaxing spot enjoyed by many. In fact, for a busy Saturday they managed to rearrange the therapists schedule so that a friend and I could have facials. I ha never had a facial before, seriously, but I JUST left and my face looks and feels amazing. The space is nice, music tranquil, and results were unexpectedly beautiful! They also had great tips on how to maintain beautiful skin in your home climate. Again, wow.
Did I mention how amazing my face feels? Truly left this place glowing, and really, that says a lot. I had to get used to the dry Santa Fe air coming from San Francisco. This helped me feel replenished, invigorated, and most of all relaxed. Great place!
Place rating: 1
San Francisco, CA
Well I was in NM on business and had a stressful day and was really looking forward to having a facial to end my busy week. Showed up for the 90 minute nirvana facial and was pretty disappointed. Janice was a great, sweet lady, but the facial was ok at best. There was only 2 face masks and mud/​exfoliating treatment for the ENTIRE 90 MINUTES! I paid $ 175 with tip and the additional $ 20 tax they added on. She was a bit rough for something that should be relaxing. Oddly enough I did get both arm and legs massaged, but if I wanted a massage that’s what I would have purchased.
All in all I will not be going back and if you are looking for a facial I would not recommend absolute nirvana, because it was absolutely not worth that much money and not a facial!!!
Sorry.
Place rating: 5
Lafayette, CA
Well what else can I say that everyone else didn’t? I loved it!
My spa experience here was the ultimate relaxation. I came to Santa Fe by myself to do some centering and I knew I wanted to go to a spa, but I am always skeptical about over the top, fancy schmancy hotel type spas. So I asked the locals were to go and they sent me to Nirvana.
The place itself is nestled amidst some trees on a cute and quiet street. The staff are extremely friendly, and patiently answered all my questions. Since my trip was about centering I decided to go full throttle so I got the deluxe treatment specifically the Ocean and Flowers. I was in absolute bliss. My skin has never felt so soft.
Keith was my bodywork expert and he was amazing and he has the strongest hands!
Oh and the rose petal bath was divine, very romantic for couples. Nevertheless I did just fine by myself. Lastly, the snacks and tea at the end were a perfect treat to top of my wonderful experience her at the Spa and in Santa Fe.
I highly recommend this Spa!
One small caveat to keep in if you are a out of towner is the $ 20 service fee on top of taxes. that’s not unique to this spa, its every spa in Santa Fe. But its worth it!
Place rating: 5
San Francisco, CA
The best spa ever. Not pretentious, but a great vibe. Had a fabulous hot bath including amazing tea, fresh fruit, & chocolates. Half the price of the hotel spas.
Place rating: 5
Austin, TX
Everybody I met here was very friendly. The massage I got was wonderful. The atmosphere relaxing. I would definitely recommend it!
Place rating: 5
Austin, TX
I worked with owner Carolyn Lee years ago in transformation of The Madeline Inn to the glorious Absolute Nirvana. The ideas and tender care that were taken into consideration during the process ensured me that this was going to be a Spa of large grandeur. Carolyn & her staff are as gracious as they come. If you are visiting Santa Fe for the 1st time or as a seasoned traveler, you must visit Absolute Nirvana. If you’re looking for a unique experience without the lines & traffic… your destination again is at Carolyn’s place. She’ll provide many options for you during your visit and greet you with incredible sweet treats! Not to mention all of her establishments being eco-​friendly! I cannot wait to get back for a visit.
Place rating: 5
Middlesex, MA
My wife and make it to Santa Fe about once a year and a almost always schedule a massage at Absolute Nirvana when we’re there.
In the past we’ve done couples treatments including the Javanese Lulur which combines a scented oil massage, an exfoliating scrub with sandalwood, brown rice powder, and turmeric, and a yogurt and honey body mask. (Honestly, I couldn’t remember all the scrub ingredients, so I just went and googled them. I do remember the refreshed feeling the massage left me with though.)
This past weekend my needs were simple. The flight had left me with a knot in my shoulders, so I scheduled a deep tissue massage. My therapist, Libby, did a great job of finding the knows and working them out. She a a keen sense of exactly the right pressure to use. I left the Absolute Nirvana feeling like a new man.
Place rating: 5
Austin, TX
The setting is really beautiful and the therapists were amazing. My masseuse was this little tiny woman who got at my knotted muscles like a 250-​pound dude.
I set up a morning at this place as a «reward» for myself because I’ve been workin’ like a crazy person. Started with a facial, and you have to love an aesthetician who tells you you have the skin of a 12 year old when you are, umm, a few multipliers past that.
After my amazing massage and body treatment, I got to soak in a tub filled with rose petals, at the foot of a fireplace. I did not want to leave. It was a wonderful experience and a fabulous add-​on to my Thirsty Ear Festival trip.