Written by DLX contributor, Lauren Martineau in context of Scandinave spa and big white north.
With its variety of jaw-dropping landscapes and culture, it’s no surprise Lonely Planet named Canada as a top destination for travelers in 2017. And so, if you’re one of the many travelings across the Big White North, you might want to step inside for a bit for a little R&R and indulge in a few hours within one of these great spas.
Scandinave Spa, Whistler, British Columbia
Photo credit: Scandinave Spa
The Scandinave Spa is well-known in Canada for its unique Scandinavian baths experience. Located away from the hustle and bustle of Whistler, the 25,000 square foot outdoor spa is sprawled across three acres of forested land that overlooks the gorgeous mountain landscape. Through the ancient practice of hydrotherapy, this luxury spa’s goal is to provide guests ultimate peace and quiet. The spa even has a “no talking” rule in place in the bath areas. This gives visitors the chance to truly reflect, relax and escape from the stress of daily life. From baths to massages, this is one must-see when visiting Whistler, the renowned host of the 2010 Winter Olympics.
St. Anne’s Spa, Grafton, Ontario
Photo credit: Ste. Anne Spa
Named the Top Destination Spa by the Canadian Spa and Wellness Awards, this luxury spa has it all. Nestled on 400 private acres, St. Anne’s Spa provides a warm and country rustic atmosphere for guests wanting to relax and indulge. Their fieldstone grotto is nothing short of amazing and with a page long list of spa treatments for guest to choose from, there’s something here for everyone. While hot stone massages are always a safe bet, try their Synchronized Tuning treatment for a truly therapeutic spa experience. The treatment combines deep tissue massage with deep skin cleansing, a mineral wrap, and Shiatsu.
Willow Stream Spa, Banff, Alberta
Photo credit: Willow Tree Spa
The Willow Stream Spa was hailed the #1 Canada Hotel Spa by Travel and Leisure in 2015 and for good reason. Located in the prestigious Fairmont Banff Springs, it offers the best in European spa luxury. Enjoy their assortment of whirlpools, from the indoor European mineral pool to the outdoor whirlpool that overlooks the Rocky Mountains. This 38,000 square foot sanctuary also has a bevy of lavish spa services available including mud wraps, skin treatments and massages of all kinds (ask for the Majestic Blue spa treatment and prepare to be amazed).
Photo credit: Balnea Spa
Good luck leaving this oasis on the lake. The founders of Balnea Spa really thought of everything when creating this resort-style retreat. Balnea Spa has a slew of amenities including thermal waterfalls, hiking trails, a sweat lodge, Turkish bath, saunas, yoga, restaurants and a beach club, to name a few. And we haven’t we gotten to the face and body treatment options. Try their Thermal Experience to enjoy the best of what this spa has to offer. The Experience involves a traditional three-step cycle of a hot to cold treatment followed by a rest period.
The Grotto Spa, Parksville, British Columbia
Photo credit: grotto spa
The Grotto Spa is the perfect place for individuals looking for a tranquil weekend escape. Voted #1 Spa in Canada by Spas of Canada (http://www.leadingspasofcanada.com/spas/grotto-spa-at-tigh-na-mara-seaside-spa-resort/), the Grotto Spa is home to the Grotto Mineral Pool, a warm water oasis designed to detoxify the body. The spa also features a variety of today’s most popular facial treatments that help clean and clear the skin of toxins. Thanks to their wicked spa packages, the Grotto Spa is ideal for both couples and groups alike and provides the ultimate spa retreat amidst 22 acres of natural forest on beautiful Vancouver Island.
If it’s luxury pampering you’re looking for, these five spas are it. If you’re visiting Canada this fall, take advantage of the gorgeous fall weather and reserve your space at any one of these outdoor spas to take in Canadian autumn in all its glory.
Recognized for their world-class spa treatments and services, first-rate customer care and overall lavish experience, you’re guaranteed to be catered to at any one of these luxury spas across Canada.