When it comes to relaxation and self-care, traditional spa treatments can be a great way to unwind. However, a new breed of spa experiences is emerging, focused on mental health and overall well-being. These unique sanctuaries offer services like calming hypnosis sessions, endorphin-boosting experiences, and restorative thermal treatments that aim to take relaxation to a deeper level.
From coast to coast, we've compiled a list of the top five must-visit wellness spas across Canada. So, sit back, relax, and read on to discover your next oasis of serenity.
#1: Four Seasons Hotel Toronto Wellness & Bio Bar
The recently opened Wellness & Bio Bar at the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel Toronto is open to the public and designed to cater to guests' health and wellness needs. The bio bar is based on the concept of “biohacking,” which refers to a DIY approach to improving one's quality of life and health through various techniques and interventions.
The spa aims to address four pillars of wellness, including mental, physical, spiritual, and sexual well-being, with services tailored to each area. Additionally, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto is the first luxury hotel in the city to introduce touch therapy, a treatment that helps reduce pain and inflammation and strengthen the lymphatic system for those living with cancer. Expectant mothers can indulge in Mom-to-Be treatments, specially designed to soothe those in their second and third trimesters. For those looking to improve their sleep or calm their nerves, the renowned hypnotist Asad Mecci offers hypnosis appointments to unlock your full potential.
#2: Mysa Nordic Spa
Prince Edward Island's Mysa Nordic Spa is the first of its kind in the province and is situated on 18 acres of serene and peaceful land. The spa aims to help guests immerse themselves in nature, awaken their senses, and leave feeling stress-free through activities like meditation, essential oil steaming, and sauna sessions. However, the main attraction is the “thermal experience,” inspired by ancient Scandinavian rituals.
Participants alternate between moments of hot, cold, and rest temperatures to release tension and allow the body and mind to feel rejuvenated. At Mysa, guests can enjoy this practice by cycling between baths and saunas for an invigorating and refreshing rush. Mysa is also environmentally conscious and uses a fully renewable woodchip boiler to power its spa facilities for optimum efficiency and minimal emissions.
#3: Unbounded Well
Unbounded Well in Toronto is the city's first outdoor wellness playground, offering private, self-guided, and guided experiences focused on hot and cold therapy, breathing techniques, and movement. Guests can move between Scandinavian saunas, a geodesic breathwork studio, and the cold plunge wells, all without leaving the downtown core. The Unbounded cold exposure method is worth braving the chilly temperatures, as it has many benefits, including an immune system boost, improved cognitive function, accelerated recovery, and somatic healing.
#4: Circle Wellness Spas
Circle Wellness Spa in Vancouver has been a local favorite for years, and they have recently opened a new location on Granville Island. The private thermal spa offers hydrotherapy and heated stone treatments that fuse therapeutic concepts and ancient wellness rituals with top-tier technology for the ultimate wellness experience.
Within the WelPod sauna of the spa, visitors are able to wander around the expansive, open-concept room and absorb the tranquilizing sound, light, and warmth features of this one-of-a-kind, multi-sensory area that is specifically crafted to help them discover their rhythm and de-stress their minds and bodies. Currently, the main spa location has a considerable waitlist, but with the new venue opening up, there will be more room to accommodate the enthusiastic visitors.
#5: Förena Cité Thermale
Take a voyage to the forefront of aquatic wellness at Förena Cité Thermale, a spa located just outside of Montreal. Drawing inspiration from traditional rituals practiced in Iceland, Russia, and Germany, this spa offers a diverse range of massage and thermotherapy services that celebrate various cultures and leave guests feeling revitalized.
The “Förena experience” centers on thermal cycles and thermotherapy, which aid the body and mind by eliminating toxins through perspiration, accelerating metabolism, and reducing stress while inducing deep relaxation through water-based cycles that trigger the release of endorphins. Additionally, Förena Cité Thermale specializes in personalized massages that cater to the specific needs of each guest, whether they are expectant mothers or individuals seeking to alleviate skin fatigue and pent-up stress.