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Spa-goers with sky-high standards can confidently step into this sun-drenched aerie perched above Fifth Avenue. Built with luxury and decadence in mind, an experience here is near-flawless. The bi-level, 22,000-square-foot resort is the brainchild of respected Romanian esthetician Cornelia Zicu, who is known for her preventative and curative treatments. Formerly of the Peninsula Spa, Zicu also has a reputation for treating each client as if he or she were the most important of VIPs—a philosophy that’s felt throughout her namesake spa. After shedding street clothes in the fully stocked locker room (usually overseen by two attendants), clients chill in the Relaxation Library, enjoying cashmere throws, iPods, and light snacks before heading to their treatments. Facials employ the house line of products and are administered by two therapists—one who works on the skin, another who massages the arms and legs; the treatment tables feature built-in footbaths. The spa’s menu includes high- and low-tech offerings, from endermologie, massage, and Romanian-style body treatments to one of the city’s only Watsu pools. Guests are encouraged to take a day-long mini-vacation here, following treatments with a nosh at the 35-seat café, a swing around the resort-style boutique, and some time in the rooftop lounge, which boasts private sunbathing areas and shrubbery-shrouded European Soaking Baths. — Melissa Foss

Available for any occasion, Cornelia’s Spa Suite VIP area allows groups to enjoy a choice of treatments, DVD players, refreshments, and a butler and concierge service that can arrange for nearby stores (Ferragamo, Fendi, Escada) to deliver a selection of clothing and accessories for guests to try. After the initial VIP visit, your preferred musical choices and room temperatures are programmed into the system for your next visit. Special packages and gift cards are also available; see the spa’s website for details.

Bridal Packages
Bridal groups can opt for the half-day package, which includes a facial, massage, manicure, pedicure, eye treatment, and Champagne lunch or have the staff design a custom package to their specifications. Book a spa suite where you can hang and dine together in private between treatments. The roof garden, with a view of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, is complete with lounge chairs and a dining area, and can even be set up for pedicure stations.

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