Planning a Healthy Getaway in Canada: 3 Destinations for Mind-Body-Soul Wellness
- Published: Thursday, September 25th 2014
- in Travel & Play
by Danica Jeffery
Anytime is a great time to reward your mind, body, and soul with a little rest and relaxation when it comes to health and wellness. Why not incorporate a weekend getaway into the mix and plan a little wellness escape this season? There’s no need to go over the top on pricey retreats abroad when there are so many to choose from closer to home, in Canada. We’ve made a list of some of our top picks for spa and health-minded spots you ought to think about checking out (and checking into) for a little recharge time.
Photo Courtesy of Spa Eastman
Head to La Belle Province when in search of a spa and wellness retreat. The province is chock-full of them, it’s tough to choose just one. If you have to narrow it down, head to Quebec’s Eastern Townships region (about an hour outside of Montreal) along the US border. It’s home to about 160 towns and villages but still features about 80 percent regional woodlands providing a rustic and naturally stunning setting.
Nestled within all of the vineyards, orchards and network of trails in this part of the province you’ll find the Spa Eastman on 326 acres of picturesque property. With seven accommodation pavilions spread throughout, enjoy a stroll on over 9 miles of natural hiking trails and gardens, and immerse yourself into their immersion packages to kick-start your healthy getaway.
Since opening in 1977, this bona fide vacation spa has offered getaway packages catering to a range of services that include guided walks, a gourmet menu, and healthy weight loss program complimented by raw food or vegan recipes. Incorporate a session at their Eastman-les-Bains Thermotherapy zone and add a touch of European-style treatment to your stay. Experience a Hammam session, steam bath, infrared sauna, and more.
At Spa Eastman, you’ll score a customized vacation centered on self-renewal, personalized service, teachings, and a holistic approach to wellbeing and self-improvement.
Photo Courtesy of Ste. Anne’s
A little further west (and only about an hour and a half drive from Toronto), you’ll find Ste. Anne’s spa and wellness resort. Their focus is on creating an atmosphere that helps guests recharge and rebuild strength, recapturing energy with plenty of time to meditate and reflect. You’ll find plenty of opportunity to do so within the serene, sprawling grounds (complete with 1850s fieldstone castle).
Arrive in time for afternoon tea and partake one of their many wellness classes such as; yoga, horseback-riding, stretching, meditation, or spa treatments to really get into a relaxed mindset. You’ll find plenty of accommodation options ranging from the main Inn and Cottages
With attentive service and touches of luxury throughout, take in the picturesque vistas that surround Ste. Anne’s. Wrap yourself in a plush robe as you meander your way to and from spa services such as hydrotherapy, body wraps and massage, and be sure to score a few items from their very own skin nourishment skin care line.
Photo courtesy of Sparkling Hill
Though there are plenty of spa and wellness getaways to choose from on Canada’s west coast, we’ve opted to highlight one luxury destination you don’t want to miss located in the interior.
During the summer months, British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley region is abuzz with tourists who travel from all over to taste their way around the picturesque region known as the “Napa of the North.’ With hundreds of wineries having popped up over the past several decades – it’s become a wine lovers paradise and more. With all the indulgence and excess though, the area is ripe with opportunities to relax with some seriously good-for-you R&R courtesy of a handful of exceptional spa resorts.
One of our favorites is Sparkling Hill Resort located in Vernon. This European-style wellness resort features a 40,000 square foot KurSpa (the largest in Canada) with more than 100 different treatments to choose from. Sparkling Hill Resort is true to its name with the unique incorporation of 3.5 million Swarovski crystal elements strategically placed throughout. Resort accommodations feature a stunning European-style design throughout, crystal glass fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling sliding window wall, heated floors, walk-through shower with outdoor view and an endless array of amenities.
Where are some of your favorite spots to go for a wellness getaway? Share them in the comments below!
