spas canada

The 10 most incredible spas in Canada for a winter retreat

Spas in Canada are what might just get you through a brutal winter and, luckily, Canada has a few luxurious spas that make for the perfect getaway during the colder months.

Here are some incredible spas for a winter retreat in Canada.

Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature, Manitoba

This wooden cabin spa complex and its steamy outdoor pools will make you feel like you're in the middle of a wintry forest in Sweden. The thermal spa's concept is all about quickly alternating between hot and cold, as per the therapeutic Nordic tradition.

Enjoy use of eucalyptus and orange steam rooms, saunas with crystal menthol, hot pools in the great outdoors and more.

Grotto Spa at Tigh-Na-Mara, B.C.

This 20,000 square foot spa has been named number one in Canada, and for good reason.

The tropical grotto's mineral pools sit on a 22-acre seaside property along the northeast coast of Vancouver Island.

Various types of on-site accommodation are well-complemented by two top-rated restaurants, sumptious spa treatments and killer ocean views.

Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Banff Springs, Alberta

This stunning spa is a standout not only for its quality, but also because of its unique location.

The Fairmont Banff Springs is one of the most reputable and bougie hotels in the country, but also one of the oldest. Established in 1888 during the railroad travel boom, the old stone castle boasts a rich history, including many alleged hauntings.

Find your zen in the serene mountain setting, take in some remarkable views, and maybe explore a few of the hotel's creepier rooms on your off-time. (The multiple ski hills in the area are an added bonus).

Strøm Spa Nordique, Quebec

This spa resort in old Quebec City has a slew of lavish winter packages to choose from starting at pretty reasonable prices.

Strom in Swedish refers to the force of water — an obvious theme of the resort, which aims to evoke its "force and tranquility," as well as its purifying qualities. The minimalist aesthetic and natural spaces of the spa set the tone for some serious relaxation.

Balnea Spa, Quebec

Experience a much-needed cutoff from urban life and total immersion in nature at this small, remote spa nestled among the hills of rural Quebec.

Take a soothing dip in an outdoor pool overlooking a lake, relax in the Moroccan lounge or Scandinavian sauna, or pamper yourself with spa treatments that go beyond your typical massages and facials into body scrubs, wraps and light therapy.

The fact that the business prides itself on its sustainability efforts and firm ties to the natural world makes the experience even better.

Scandinave Blue Mountain, Ontario

After a long day on the slopes at Blue Mountain, is there a more perfect to ease your sore muscles and warm your windburnt cheeks than to unwind in some quiet outdoor Scandinavian baths or with a deep tissue massage at this nearby spa resort?

When you're done with the tranquil spa setting, the surrounding area offers tons of stuff to do — bars, restaurants, skiing and shopping abound, along with many different types of overnight accommodation.

KurSpa at Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa, B.C.

This world-class health and wellness spa outside Kelowna offers holistic spa treatments from a number of different cultures.

Heal your body and mind with acupuncture, naturopathy and homeopathy, hot stone massage, Chinese herbal medicine, hydrotherapy and more.

The site has multiple steam rooms, fitness studio, scenic mountain views and even an outdoor infinity pool.

Ste. Anne's Spa, Ontario

This facility between Toronto and Ottawa is Canada's largest destination spa, and offers the gamut of spa services and group wellness classes. Yoga, meditation, and guided walks and snowshoe treks accompany seasonal spa wraps, reiki and chakra balancing, and heat and hydrotherapy sessions.

There are also various esthetic treatments and more than 15 types of massages to choose from. In your off-time, explore the on-site grotto, steam room, tranquility garden, fitness facility, lounge areas, boutique and horse stables.

Northern Lights Resort & Spa, Yukon

Find your centre in wild, let go with some luxury spa treatments, and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime view of the Aurora Borealis at this aptly-named resort south of Whitehorse. The property sits in the middle of the territory's renowned mountains and forests for a proper escape.

The unique spa experience at Northern Lights includes a stay in your own private log cabin or glass chalet to really take in the view of the natural phenomenon.

Boathouse Spa at Oak Bay Beach Hotel, B.C.

This beachfront spa near Victoria on Vancouver Island has three heated mineral pools right along the north Pacific Ocean, which serves as the theme of the whole resort.

All treatments, products and experiences are derived from or inspired by the natural setting of Oak Bay Beach, and the spa has been recognized as one of the best in the country.

Soothe your body with local seaweed, marine clay, glacial water, natural essential oils and more that are part of the spa's various wraps, exfoliation treatments and massages.

Lead photo by

Strom Spa


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