A New Jersey Getaway to Crystal Springs Resort + Spa in Hamburg

Winter’s transition into spring can feel like the longest warm-up ever, but we have solved our problems of frigid and rainy temps and weather with a little New Jersey getaway to a magical spot in Northern New Jersey. When you’re in the mood to escape the NYC metro area, and a Hoboken or Jersey City staycation just doesn’t cut it, a New Jersey getaway resort is necessary. Our team recently got a chance to stay at Crystal Springs Resort + Spa in Hamburg, New Jersey, and we’re sharing a bit more about our visit, which is an excellent mini vacation from all things metropolitan (think: spa, laying poolside in the coolest biosphere pool around, and lots of R&R).

All About Crystal Springs

Crystal Springs is located in Hamburg, New Jersey in Sussex County, and is about a 1.5-hour drive from Hoboken and Jersey City, respectively. Public transport may be a bit more of a stretch, as the area is a bit remote. But it’s a beautiful, serene setting as soon as you drive up — and worth the trek.

Not even being dramatic, but Crystal Springs is a resort that really is for everyone. Here’s why: There’s a spa + sauna situation, a gym, two restaurants, a bar, golf, outdoor activities, and the coolest part of all — a biosphere pool, whose atmospheric temp is set to 85+ degrees Fahrenheit.

The resort is also kid-friendly, so don’t fret if you have little ones but still want a getaway. It’s also known to host bachelorette retreats, weddings, large groups, and conferences. The entire run of space is massive, with three pool complexes, two hotels, and 4,000 acres of land to explore with hiking trails.

While there are a slew of amenities at Crystal Springs, there are a few standouts that we’d be remiss in not mentioning. The Elements Spa and the Reflections Spa are renowned for their services and relaxing massage, body, and facial treatments — and there are even wellness retreats if that’s your vibe. If golfing is more the move, the resort’s Golf Packages are worth a look. But the real star of the show is truly the biosphere pool.

All About the Biosphere

The Crystal Springs biosphere pool is the first structure of its kind in America to incorporate advanced German Foiltec roofing material, allowing nearly 100% light transmission for year-round tanning. There’s also a retractable roof which makes you feel like you’re outdoors regardless of the time of year — especially since the temps are set to 85 degrees Fahrenheit in the entire area. The exotic freeform pools are surrounded by lush tropical foliage which was specially transported to be housed in the Biosphere and adds to the vacation vibe. You’ll feel like you walked to Florida from your hotel room and will be craving a margarita in no time (which, is conveniently served poolside).

Food + Drink

While at Crystal Springs, wine tasting in the cellar happens on the daily — and is a fun add-on, especially as guests wind down the cellar stairs into the caverns and learn about tannins and aromas. Post-wine tasting, a happy hour, or dinner at Crystal Tavern is the move, which is nearby and serves delicious American-style eats. There is a ‘schedule of events’ that happens daily, so whether you’re an HBO-and-chill person on vacay or if you’re a more up-and-at-em vibe, there’s something for all interests.

The space was truly such a fun getaway that doesn’t feel like you’re in New Jersey — the mountains surrounding, the proximity to Mountain Creek (if skiing is of interest), and the relaxing time year-round make this resort a must in any season, but especially the winter. It’s got a rustic feel mixed with some contemporary aspect — perhaps slightly stuck in the ’90s, but we’re not complaining. It’s nostalgia, it’s New Jersey, and it’s a fun getaway for a small group to enjoy as we wait for the warmer temps.