Thermëa just as good in the summer

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 16/08/2016 (3565 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Thermal cycles are an age-old tradition consisting of hot, cold, and relaxation, meant to purify the body by helping to eliminate toxins.

After going through three-to-four thermal rounds, you are supposed to feel rejuvenated, refreshed, and ready to take on your world.

My first thermal experience was a few years ago in Quebec. Nordik Spa-Nature is tucked away in the Gatineau Hills, a short drive from downtown Ottawa. North America’s largest spa, it is sprawled over a multi-level rocky landscape teeming with outdoor baths, saunas and steams, cold plunges, underground saltwater floating pool, and dozens of cozy nook areas where you can rest or nap. It’s an absolutely amazing place, even in the dead of winter — which was when I visited.

Lucky for Winnipeg, the Nordik group chose our city as the location for their second spa. Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature opened in January 2015, nestled on the edge of the forest beside Crescent Drive Golf Course. Once again I visited in winter, and once again, it was wonderful. But I had to wonder… what would it be like in summertime?

Well, I’ve recently discovered that Thermëa is just as awesome in summer — and totally different. Because it’s not cold out, people saunter casually about, creating a super laid-back vibe. Little campfires crackle in stone pits and stoves throughout the site, and the smell of wood smoke fills the air. Everywhere you look are beautifully landscaped gardens, rock formations, and fountains.

There are more relaxation areas, too, with hammocks, cushy beds, bean bags, and lawn chairs everywhere. A flight of stairs leads from the actual spa area down to the sandy ground, where you can stake out quiet space under a canopy of treetops, listen to birds sing, or be lulled by the sound of wind rustling in the leaves. It’s a little piece of paradise for sure.  

The other great thing about Thermëa in summer is that you can sip on cocktails outdoors, since the site is fully licensed. You can also take a break from spa-ing and order food on the patio, or sit-down indoors at the restaurant and enjoy a selection of healthy food.

The menu sources local ingredients whenever possible, and offers plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options. The mussels are particularly popular, shipped in fresh from P.E.I., steamed and served in a delicate pesto white wine sauce. The New Zealand spring lamb is slowly braised until tender and served on a bed of pasta tossed with a mint and garlic herb infusion. Each dish offers a special wine pairing recommended by Thermëa’s sommelier.

After treating yourself to a lovely meal, why not treat your body with massage therapy or pampering treatments? There are multiple packages to choose from that can be combined with the thermal spa. You can even select gourmet add-ons like wine and cheese, beer and tapas, and port and chocolate fondue.

If you want the best therapeutic massage ever, book a deep tissue with Dan. He will find all the knots, work them out with just the right amount of pressure, and greatly enhance the euphoria you are already feeling after a couple of thermal cycles.

Call it the perfect ending to a perfect summer’s day at the spa.

RoseAnna Schick is an avid traveller who seeks inspiration wherever she goes. Email her at rascreative@yahoo.ca