Although the weather seems to be warming up just a tad, the depressing chilly winds and melting snow stir a need of warmth and relaxation within us all. So now that the holiday season is pretty much over, and escaping for a week to a warm destination might not be so feasible, what can we do to take a few hours and just breathe? The answer is Nordic baths. Yes, young professionals, the Nordic baths in and around Montreal are plenty and set in the most relaxing and Zen of settings near you. We tested, tried and compiled our top five Montreal spas to keep you warm and cozy this January:
SKYSPA
Located at Quartier DIX30, a few minutes from downtown Montreal, Brossard’s SKYSPA features a unique urban open-air spa concept that is centered on relaxation, well-being, leisure and entertainment. Not only do they have a beautiful terrace, but it is accessible in both summer and winter. What can you expect? Hot California baths to feel the healthy contrasts of temperature in the cold bath with Nordic waterfall; and to complete your relaxation, the authentic Finnish saunas and eucalyptus steam baths provide the happy ending you will need. Of course a variety of options to add such as a massage, face treatments and more are on the menu if you so desire. Why not shop the plethora of beautiful boutiques DIX30 features and then head off to indulge what SkySpa has to offers? Sounds like the ideal day! Open Sunday to Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 12pm.
Bota Bota
This one is for the chic young professionals out there and one of our personal favourites. Anchored in the Old Port of Montreal, Bota Bota offers an enchanting ambiance with a stunning backdrop of Old Montreal’s charms. Bota Bota consists of five decks, which house the various spa installations including two saunas with incredible views, a eucalyptus steam bath, outdoor whirlpool baths, cold showers and baths, relaxation areas, a restaurant, terraces and a garden. Services such as massage therapy, body treatments, facial treatments, manicures and pedicures, as well as yoga and Pilates classes are also on the list (we can highly vouch for the incredible massages here). A notable fact? Their restaurant is operated by Auberge sur la Route, with Michelin-starred chef Éric Gonzalez at its helm. For a great price, visit them before 11am for a $35 water circuit package, or on Tuesdays take advantage of their water circuit layover priced at $60 for two. Open every day from 10am to 10pm.
The Strøm Spa
The idea behind Strom was simple: to combine a Nordic spa and urbanity, for a re-energizing a relaxing experience all located in the countryside on the shores of Lac des Battures, just a few minutes from downtown Montreal. Here you will find outdoor whirlpools, thermal and Nordic baths, Finnish saunas, eucalyptus steam baths, thermal and Nordic waterfalls, indoor and outdoor relaxation areas with fireplaces and services such as massages, body and facial treatments and a lovely bistro on site. If you can make it there after 6pm on any day, the price for the thermal circuit is only $29. Open daily from 10am to 10pm.
Spa Escale Sante
Located on Molson and Rachel, this contemporary urban spa in the heart of the city offers hot and cold saline pools, a Finnish sauna, steam bath scented with eucalyptus, and icy waterfalls to get your blood flowing. Their lounge areas allow guests to enjoy a tea snuggled in an armchair where smoothies, nuts, dried fruit and green apples are offered free of charge. Did we also mention there is free parking on site? Score. Access to the Nordic baths is only $25 Tuesday through Thursday from 9am to noon if you are looking for a great deal. Open every day from 9am to 10pm.
Spa Scandinave Old Montreal
This famous chain of gorgeous spas with locations from Tremblant to blue Mountain also has a cozy spot in the heart of Old Montreal that is always buzzing. The goal here is to immerse yourself in surroundings designed for quiet rejuvenation. Try traditional Scandinavian treatments featuring body warming, the beneficial cold rinse, and relaxation period in one of their many quiet areas perfect for a quick nap. Cleanse your skin, improve your physical well-being, and discover how beneficial hydrotherapy can be; a great way to start your new year with a healthy frame of mind. Visit them Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday after 5pm when the baths are on special for $38. Open daily from 8:30am to 9pm.
Cover Image and Bota Bota image by:Marie-Reine Mattera for Bota Bota
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