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L.A. spas where guys unwind

By Adam Tschorn, Los Angeles Times

May 9, 2010

Let's face it. When it comes to a spa visit, men frequently get the short end of the loofah. No amount of salt crystals and elbow grease can scrub away the fact that the spa experience is predominantly tailored to pamper, knead, wax and unwind women.

But there are some local places where guys can comfortably cool their calloused heels, seek out some steam and solitude, and kick back for a few hours without feeling like a square peg in a round hole. Here are a few worth exploration:

The Gendarmerie

Located in a bungalow barely a scone's throw away from La Conversation Cafe on Doheny Drive in West Hollywood, this spa opened 5 1/2 years ago with a focus on men. Though the clientele is now about 60% men and 40% women, the vibe is unmistakably that of male sanctuary — overstuffed leather chairs, flat-screen TV mounted over the fireplace and the occasional spread of complimentary food and drink that includes lunch on the weekends and Bloody Marys during the Super Bowl.

While use of amenities like the steam room and serene courtyard in the back can't be purchased separately, they come gratis with any of the spa services (which range from $25 for an eyebrow wax or manicure to $195 for a 110-minute chiropractic massage) — along with the right to come back any time in the future and use them again at no additional cost. Owner Topper Schroeder likens it to "joining a club but without having to pay dues." (Although the steam room is barely bigger than a standard shower stall, it boasts several glass bricks that allow in light from the outside and give it a more spacious feel).

The Gendarmerie, 9069 Nemo St., West Hollywood, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, 12 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Monday and Tuesday by appointment.

adam.tschorn@latimes.com